euskalkultura.eus

01/26/2021 - Bakersfield, CA, USA

January 2, 1939 - January 26, 2021

Born January 2, 1939 in Anso, Spain and passed away January 26, 2021 in Bakersfield, California.

Francisco (Frank), son of a French Bread Baker in Anso, Spain, immigrated to Bakersfield, CA as a Shepard on a work visa. 

After earning his American Citizenship, Frank was employed at The Woolgrower's and Noriega's tending the bar. 

He married Carol (Duran) Mendiara where they began an incredible journey together. 

They moved to Fairbanks, Alaska while working on the installation of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, and later to Lafayette, LA. There, he expanded his network and horizons. He was even able to meet then President Gerald Ford, and make investments in independent oil and gas ventures, truly sowing and reaping the benefits of the "Land of Opportunity ". 

Frank and Carol returned to Bakersfield with their two sons, Frankie and Javier.

Francisco's personality was always larger than life, never meeting a stranger. 

His love of people, fishing, sports, and his wonderful culinary skills always made for an enjoyable time, ever emulating the Basque saying "Ongi Ettori" translated as "Welcome". 

He loved being in the upper Sierra's catching native trout, having a sip from the bota and camping with his friends at McGee Creek, cutting a piece of hard cheese and Pyrenees bread with his pocket knife next to the fire while boisterously laughing at or making a joke.

Francisco is survived by his love Carol, sons Frank and wife Stacy, Javier and his wife Yessenia, grandchildren Frankie Mendiara III, Catalina Mendiara and Kaleb Mendiara, brother Joaquin Mendiara, and so many other friends and relatives in California, Texas and Spain.

Family and friends viewing will be held at Mission Family Mortuary on Monday February 8, 2021 from 1-3pm.

To Plant Memorial Trees in memory, please visit our Sympathy Store.

(published in Bakersfield Californian, Legacy.com on Feb. 5, 2021)

Goian Bego (GB) - Rest in Peace