Emerenciano Nano Nieto Jr.

1933 - 2025

EMERENCIANO NANO NIETO JR.

August 9, 1933 – December 1, 2025

Emerenciano Nano Nieto Jr., a beloved father, husband, uncle, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025, in Bakersfield, California, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. He was 92 years old.

He was born on August 9, 1933, in his great-grandmothers home in San Fernando, California, to Emerenciano and Petra Nieto. From an early age, Nano was shaped by strong family values, a humble spirit, and a deep sense of community qualities that would guide him throughout his life. At just 9 years old, his family moved to Bakersfield, the place he would proudly call home from that moment on. Raised alongside his ten siblings, Nano attended and graduated from Our Lady of Guadalupe School and Bakersfield High School.

Nano dedicated more than 60 years to his craft as a barber, a profession he loved deeply. Nano's barbershop became more than a place of business it became a gathering spot where stories were shared, friendships were formed, and his kindness touched countless lives. His gentle humor, generous heart, and steady hand made him not only a skilled barber but also a trusted confidant to those who sat in his chair.

Outside the shop, Nano had a tender spot for every stray alley cat that found its way to his back door. His love for animals was never-ending, and he welcomed each one with the same warmth and compassion he showed to the people in his life.

Nano always had a giving heart and faithfully supported many organizations, including the Paralyzed Veterans of America, the Humane Society, Shriners, Boys Club, and St. Jude's. His generosity extended far beyond his immediate circle, touching lives in ways both seen and unseen.

He also loved exploring the world. His travels took him to Israel, Canada, Hawaii, St. Thomas, Niagara Falls, and many other remarkable places. Each journey reflected his curiosity, appreciation for life, and desire to experience the beauty of the world firsthand.

Nano was preceded in death by his beloved partner of 44 years, Rowena Lomely; his parents, Emerenciano and Petra Nieto; his sons, Julio Martinez, Rick Martinez, and Steve Nieto; and his siblings Rosalio, Mary Banales, Conchita, Joe, Gilbert, Steven, Terry Sanchez, and Margie Sotello.

He is survived by his former wife and friend, Julie Gifford; their children, Lisa Marie Amaral and Jeff Martinez; his stepdaughter, Destini Delmonico; eleven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; his sister, Angie Esqueda; his sister-in-law, Anita Nieto; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Above all, Nano was a loving and devoted family man. His warmth, patience, and unwavering support enriched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. Whether as a husband, dad, uncle, grandpa, or friend, he offered guidance, laughter, and unconditional love. Nano's legacy of kindness, generosity, and quiet strength lives on in the family and friends who cherished him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Nano's daughter, Lisa, spent eight months living by his side as his caregiver. Her unwavering support, unconditional love, and compassionate presence reflected the true meaning of devotion between a daughter and her father. The depth of her dedication brought him comfort, dignity, and peace throughout his final months.

Rosary will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., with visitation from 3:00 p.m.7:00 p.m. at Bashams Funeral Home on Niles Street. Mass will follow on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Goud with CCMC, Dr. Capote with Kern Vascular, and offer special thanks and sincere appreciation to the staff at Around The Clock Home Care and DaVita Dialysis for the compassionate, attentive care they provided. Their kindness, respect, and genuine affection for Nano were evident in every moment they spent with him. They also wish to acknowledge his special nieces Susie, Cindy, and Rachel and his nephew, Xavier, who lovingly served as his caregivers and visiting angels.

RIP Daddy. Birds of a feather, we flock together.

I love you so much for ever and a day. Until we meet again someday.

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