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BORN
1933
DIED
2025
MELESIO VALENZUELA Obituary
Feb. 16, 1933 – Feb. 8, 2025
Melesio "Mel" Valenzuela, 91, of El Centro, California, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born on February 16, 1933, in El Centro, Mel was the beloved son of Francisco and Ramona Valenzuela. He grew up in a lively household alongside his siblings, Philip, Mary, Marcos, Sofia, Sally, Adolpho, Arthur, William, and Caroline.
Mel graduated from Central Union High School in the Class of 1953 and went on to attend San Diego Barber College, where he honed his craft as a barber. His passion and dedication to his work led him to establish Central Barbershop, which he proudly owned and operated from 1960 until his retirement in 1995. Throughout the decades, he built lasting relationships with his customers, earning their trust and respect as both a skilled barber and a kindhearted friend.
In November 1964, Mel married the love of his life, Virginia Granados, with whom he built a beautiful life. Together, they raised three wonderful children, Catherine, Laura, and Edward-instilling in them the values of hard work, kindness, and family devotion. His legacy continued through his cherished grandchildren, Jonah, Arianna, Jacob, Sophia, Ryli-James, and Gabby, and his great-grandchildren, Fulton, Zelie, and Baby Calio, all of whom brought immense joy to his life.
Mel will be remembered for his warm smile, unwavering dedication to his family, and the countless stories shared from his barber chair. His presence will be deeply missed but forever cherished by all who knew him.
A funeral service will be held on March 14, 2025, at 10 a.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church. The service will commence with a Rosary, followed by a burial at Evergreen Cemetery at 12 p.m. A reception will be held afterward at St. Mary's Parish Center.
Mel's life was a testament to love, hard work, and community. Though he has left this world, his spirit and kindness will live on in the hearts of those he touched.
A special thank you to Mel's caregivers, Victor, Mayra, and Lily.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for MELESIO VALENZUELA
4 Entries
Eunice Maddalena
March 10, 2025
So sorry to hear of Mels passing. My sincere condolences to the family and friends.
Tommy G. Meza
February 27, 2025
My Condolences to The Valenzuela Family & Friends. Rest In Eternal Peace Mel.
Ramiro De La Rosa
February 22, 2025
Virginia & Familes
My most Sincere & heart felt Condolences in the passing of Mel. I met MEL in 1974 when I first moved to El Centro. I needed a haircut I found MEL's shop. Immediately HE made an impression on me. My wife & I would see you both at the dances with the Granados Esther & FRED. MEL always had radiant smile. It is an Honor be his friend. My wife Aurelia also expresses her Condolences. May GOD BLESS MEL. We are Praying for YOU and your Family.
Ramiro & Aurelia De La Rosa
Diane Goff
February 21, 2025
Dearest Virginia and family,
I'm so saddened to hear of Mel's passing. He was a wonderful, kind hearted man. I have such fond memories of taking my three boys to him to get haircuts throughout the years. Sending my love and prayers. May he RIP in God's heavenly kingdom
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