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FRANK CARDOZA Obituary
It is difficult to describe with mere words the life of Franko Cardoza. Vivacious, charismatic, generous, thoughtful, fiercely honest, gifted by God, loved. Adjectives that seem so insufficient.
Born Frank M. Cardoza on November 9, 1952, in Merced, Ca., the fourth child of six. As a young boy he was most content to be outside exploring the natural world. His inquisitive spirit birthed in him a hunger for knowledge and a desire to experience the world around him. His love for floral design began early as he helped out in his mother's flower shop in Atwater. He worked daily after school in her shop until graduating from Atwater High in 1970.
A few years later while living in Fresno, Franko met the love of his life, Barbara. Through frequent trips to Yosemite they realized their passion for nature and for one another. They made a home together with their two children, Aaron and Allison. After graduating with a degree in Animal Science from California State University, Fresno Franko decided to pursue his original gifting in floral design. With his beautiful wife by his side, he opened Franko's In Full Bloom in October of 1987. Sharing each day, they discovered the joys, frustrations and triumphs of working, living and loving together. Franko thrived on creating a unique vision for each of his clients, no matter the occasion. He loved planning and designing in beautiful, exotic locations, but saved some of his very best work for Fresno.
Throughout his life, Franko was drawn to those struggling with the weight of life's problems or cast out from society. He impacted the people around him with simple, thoughtful gestures of love and concern. A intensely private man, he shared his heart with a select few, but poured out great affection and kindness to many. His greatest joy came from the time spent with his beloved grandchildren, Rebekah, Rachel, Griffin, Joel and Lauren. "Papa" taught them to appreciate the beauty of the world around them and gave them the gift of his time. Whether baking bread, hiking through the mountains or just taking time to talk, their Papa loved them dearly.
Gifted with numerous talents, Franko was a success at everything he set his hands to do. This man left an indelible mark on the world; he will be forever in our memories, carried close within our hearts. Among those left grieving his loss are his loving wife, his children, grandchildren, sisters, and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. It is impossible to say how many lives he enriched as a result of the fertile offerings of faithful friendship.
A gathering for the Celebration of Franko's Life is currently being planned, information forthcoming on the Franko's In Full Bloom facebook page.
Donations in honor of Franko may be directed to Nancy Hind's Hospice; or Saint Agnes Medical Center.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for FRANK CARDOZA
Gigi Pavlovich
March 23, 2024
Franko was a joyous, generous person. He will always be missed, but always cherished and appreciated.
Gigi Pavlovich
March 23, 2023
I will always think of Franko with joy and gratitude. He shared his talent, his love of live, humor, and his time. Always missed.
Carl Simmons
July 8, 2012
Barb my blessing to you in this time of need. One look into your eyes always made me feel a joy and desire for life unlimited. God is with you as we wish to be at your side. I am from the old and great Detroit at its peak we knew. Denby High-Carelton Elementary (Carl J Simmons Troy, Mi)
Shelly and Rod Coburn
April 14, 2012
To all of Franko's family,
We send our deepest sympathy to you in your loss. Franko was a genius in his floral designs, a devoted friend to his community, and a delightful person. He will be deeply missed. -
Raymond McMillan
April 11, 2012
What a shock. These things always happen to "someone else". Sometimes I guess it's our turn to be "someone else". The world has lost a beautiful soul. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Pedro & Dolores Carrillo
April 10, 2012
Just to think that I wont be hearing "Hello Cousin" anymore is just so sad. My heart breaks for you Barbara and the entire family. I will miss him so much.
Bill Mascarenaz
April 10, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss. I live in Colorado and have flowers sent to my parents from Franko's for special occasions for many years. I met Franko when I was dating his sister Jayne when I lived in Fresno during college. I know you had a special bond and he will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers to you and your family. Bill Mascarenaz
Marybeth McMahon (Farzaroli)
April 9, 2012
Barbara,
How my heart aches for you and your family's loss. What a loss to our community.
I can so vividly remember meeting Franko after knowing you a while and thinking "What a great pairing." And then came your shop and THE MET IN BLOOM and Franko's premier luncheon presentation and help and guidance for this fundraiser for the museum. My thoughts and prayers stay with you each day.
Bill Cummings
April 6, 2012
Shock. Barbara my thoughts and prayers go out to you. Franko was my florist for so many years, occasions and events when I lived in Fresno and had a business their. God's speed.
Susan Pifferini
April 3, 2012
Barbara, I'm so sorry for your loss. I loved Franko and especially the way he took care of everyone he knew.What a great man.Our thoughts are with you and your family. Susan and Larry Pifferini
Trisha Hedstrom
April 2, 2012
Barb, Words can't express how much my heart aches for you. I will always remember Franko's beautiful and thoughtful gesture of presenting us with flowers at the finish line, when we did the 1/2 marathon and him cooking for us when we finished our North Dome hike. What a special man! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
April 2, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with Franko's family at this time.I was a neighbor of Franko's many years back on Pacific Ave. He had a front yard of beautiful roses. In recent years I have had the opportunity to enjoy many wonderful floral arrangements made by Franko. Most memorable my 70th. birthday party flowers. Geri Tolladay
Sylvia Landeros
April 2, 2012
I met Franko in 1994. He helped me with a beautiful floral arrangement for my mom for mother's day. Since it was her first as a grandma, he suggested a lil bud vase from the lil one. Franko has been part of making my life beautiful with the beautiful floral arrangements I would order and receive. He will never be forgotten. God bless you Franko and god bless your family.
April 2, 2012
Barbara,
You and your family are in our prayers. No words can even come close in describing the impact that Franko had on us all. He was truly an inspiration to me and I will miss him dearly.
Stay strong as God, family, and friends will guide you through this very difficult journey.
Love,
Marian
Andy&Marian Shubin
April 2, 2012
Barbara,
You and your family are in our prayers. No words can even come close in describing the impact that Franko had on us all. He was truly an inspiration to me and I will miss him dearly.
Stay strong as God, family, and friends will guide you through this very difficult journey.
Love,
Marian
Leslie Stanfield-Helfrich
April 1, 2012
Dear Barb and Family, I am saddened to know that Franko has passed. I will always remember his laugh, his humor and kindness. He made a great impression on me as a young adult. I learned from his kindness, he is fondly remembered. Leslie Stanfield-Helfrich
Susan Wanger
April 1, 2012
My deepest sympathies to Barbara and her family. Franko was a kind and generous person, the loss of whose talent and likeness cannot be expressed.
Sarica and Todd Cernohous
April 1, 2012
Dearest Barb, family and loved ones,
We want you to know how deeply saddened we are that Franko has passed--he has been a creative, brilliant fixture in our family's life for as long as my memory goes. To lose him so unexpectedly has been incredibly hard. We want you to know we love you all and we are so grateful for the blessings our families have shared. Looking so forward to seeing everyone at Franko's memorial. Until then, take the best of care. Wishing you all love and peace.
Robert & Alice Bragg
April 1, 2012
Franko you were such an inspiration and breath of fresh air a bright star in our community! You taught me so much... how the simplest of arrangements were indeed the most beautiful and how to prune my trees, etc., etc. You had that "special flair" which we will miss daily throughout each season. God placed you in our world for a very special reason, but has taken you away so abruptly! Barbara our deepest sympathy to you and your family for your loss. God Bless all of you during this most difficult time. The friendship did not end with Franko's passing...it's there for you Barbara, always.
Frank and Doreen Dunn
April 1, 2012
Franko, I've know you over half of my life. We were kids when we first met in the flower business and became good friends. You taught me so much about myself and life. We have alot of great stories, some funny, some life changing. Every time I walked into the shop I was greeted with " How you doing Frankie Baby" and received a big hug. Barbara and family, my heart goes out to you and please know that if there is anything I can do for you, I am there. My deepest sympathy for your loss of a wonderful human being, Mr. Franko Cardoza.
Frank & Doreen Dunn
April 1, 2012
Franko, I've known you over half of my life. We were kids when we met in the flower business and became good friends. You taught me so much about myself and life. We have alot of great stories...some funny, some life changing. Barbara and family, my heart goes out to all of you. Please know that if there is anything I can do for you, I am there. My deepest sympathy for your loss of a wonderful human being, Franko Cardoza.
April 1, 2012
My deepest sympathy to Barbara and Family. Franko was a wonderful man. Thanks for being my friend. Jess Silva
Whitehurst, Sullivan, Burns & Blair Chapel
March 23, 2012
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
Julie & Mike Dana
April 1, 2012
This is a beautiful tribute to such an incredible man. Franko-thank you. Rest in peace my friend.
Barbara & family....our love and prayers are with you every day.
Christina Nino
April 1, 2012
My heart goes out to Barbara and family. I worked for Franko, he thought me the true meaning of 'FLOWERS'. A man with a big smile. You are going to be truly miss.
March 31, 2012
Heartfelt condolences to Barb, and the entire family. Franko will forever live in our hearts. The memories we have made and shared over the last nearly 40 years are priceless. They have brought tremendous comfort during this most tragic time. Such a unique soul our Franko. Rest in peace dear friend.
Alice and Steve Southerland (Ventura, CA)
Linda
March 31, 2012
My sympathies are offered on your loss. During this difficult time may you "Draw close to God and he will draw close to you". James 4:8
John McMath
March 31, 2012
I knew Frank during his college years. I have nothing but fond memories of Frank. A strong willed, talented, friendly to everyone kind of guy. When Frank was in the room or even area, he made his presence known. He was that kind of personality. His talents were undeniable and his influence and enthusiasm were infectious. If there ever was a true 'Flower Child', Frank was that child that became a 'Flower Man!' He was and is well loved.
Lynne/Frank Glaser
March 31, 2012
Our sympathy goes out to Barbara and others in Franko's family, and to fellow friends who will miss this wonderful man. It was such a pleasure to know him, and he will remain in our hearts forever.
March 30, 2012
Franko was a jewel for Fresno, such a nice and generous guy..always ready to help all the organizations that need his expertice. He will truly be missed. Alyce Fourchy
March 30, 2012
I'VE LOST A DEAR FRIEND...AND HE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED. HE WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY THOUGHTS. MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY.
ROY CANTU AND FAMILY
Karen Wood
March 30, 2012
Franko will be so missed in our home & in our lives... He was a man of so many gifts, one of which was his gift of caring for others with so much exuberance!!!!!
Besides the beauty he brought this world, I'll miss his wit, his smile, & his heart the most.
With love & God's blessings to you sweet friend in heaven..
The Wood Family
March 29, 2012
Franko was a joy to know. Exuberant, giving, brilliant, funny, helpful, and a genius - the list of his qualities is long, but nothing can really describe this unique man. Surely such a bright light is shining now and always will. My thoughts are with Barbara and his family. Please know we want to share your burden any way we can. Gigi Pavlovich
Jeff Gartner
March 29, 2012
I was very sorry to hear the news about Frankie, at least that is what we called him when we were kids together, and I don't have the appropriate words to share with his family for their loss. Frankie and I grew up together in Atwater and were great friends up to and through high school. I used to hang out at the Aloha Floral shop with Frankie, his mother Rose and brother Mark. They were a special family, and I am sure that Frank kept the same enduring qualities that made him so easy to get along with as a young man. Although we have been out of touch for many years, my wife Marlene who was also a friend to Frankie and myself feel the loss.
March 29, 2012
Barbara: My heart goes out to you. Franko was so kind to my husband, Gib, and to me. My prayers are with you all. Paulie Hutchings
Vicki Mathiesen
March 29, 2012
Franko and I became friends when he took a watercolor class from me. He was the most fun, fearless artist and loved to paint. I will miss his creativity, and joy for life. he was so full of wonderful ideas that no one else thought of before, an original in every sense of the word. I will miss him and his smile ready to greet me and ask "when will we paint again"? Maybe someday in a better place, Franko.
March 29, 2012
Am so grateful to Franko for so many reasons including his upbeat enthusiasm when I walked through the door of his and Barabara's shop..We rememberr the weddings in our home and other events that were stunningly beautiful because of his creativity..Our hearts are full of gratitude for the wonderful memories he leaves us with..Betsy and Sam Reeves (N. Palm Beach Florida)
Gita Rajani
March 29, 2012
Franko's always had a smile, and was full of joy..he was willing to take on most difficult tasks and his talent for creating will remain unmatched..we will miss him..have no words to express the grief..Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Barbara..
Gita Rajani & family
Tessa Curti Hall
March 29, 2012
Franko was a dear friend of our family. We have many great memories with him, especially him bringing that special glow and beauty to some of our most important family celebrations. He was a great friend to my mother and we are so thankful we had the chance to have him in our lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with Barbara, what a gracious woman she is. We will miss him dearly and remember all of the fun and laughs we had with him. Much love, Tessa Curti Hall
Shelia-Latham Gardenhire
March 29, 2012
Thoughts and prayers with his family...I always remembered Frank as a kind and gentle soul in high school.
Jim and Sabine
Jim McMath
March 29, 2012
I haven't seen Frank since our college days in Merced. Frank had an exuberent personality that brought joy and smiles to everyone in his presence. To say that he brought light and vitality to darkness would be an understatement. We look forward to sharing in that exuberent light once again in the heavenly realms. We miss Frank! Much love, Jim McMath
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