Salvador Cuenca

Salvador C. Cuenca — a loving husband, father, grandfather, son and brother — went to heaven on Friday, September 4, 2015 in Turlock, California. Sal was born Feb. 12, 1952 in Gonzales, California. Sal attended Gonzales High School, where he met Nancy Perez, the love of his life. Sal had an affinity for working with his hands and became a mechanic, starting a career that would eventually take him to Frito Lay, from which he retired in 2014. In 1972 he married his high school sweetheart, Nancy, and the two started a life together that would last 42 years. They raised two children and celebrated the birth of four beautiful grandchildren, who lovingly called him “Tata.” Sal appreciated the simple things in life — a good action movie a hot cup of coffee, carne asada and cold beer. He enjoyed visiting coastal towns like Monterey and Ventura, and photographing travels with his kids and grandkids. Sal was a talented craftsman – he enjoyed working in his shop at home. He undertook a large extension on his house in Turlock, building a room that would be home to many family gatherings and holiday parties. Sal had a close relationship with his godson Andre Mattson, serving as a father figure to him. One of his joys late in his life was watching Andre graduate from Sonoma State. Sal was a man of high character, integrity and generosity. He also had a big heart, which was evident as he helped care for his elderly father in Turlock during his dad’s final years of life. Sal also had a unique sense of humor — he always seemed to laugh hardest at his own jokes. Sal enjoyed a special relationship with God, which allowed him to face death with peace in his heart. He looked forward to reuniting with his parents, Aurora C. Cuenca and Salvador M. Cuenca, in heaven. Two brothers, Alfonso Cuenca and Joel Cruz, preceded Sal in death. Survivors: Wife, Nancy Cuenca; Daughter, Desiree Cuenca Silva; Son, Salvador Cuenca (Shelley); and Godson Andre Mattson; Brother, Rudy Cruz; and his sisters, Linda Cuenca Torres, Olivia Serrato and Gloria Bravo. Sal was devoted to his grandchildren, Matthew Silva, Noah Cuenca, Paige Silva and Sarah Cuenca; and godchildren, Madison and Mason Moreno. Sal also leaves behind many wonderful friends and loving family members. A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 12 at 10 a.m. Turlock Memorial Park, 425 N. Soderquist Rd., Turlock.

Tributes

Salvador Cuenca

February 12, 1952 - September 4, 2015