Obituary of Lauro Valencia Del Rio, Sr.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lauro Valencia Del Rio Senior. While surrounded by his children and grandchildren, he passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 8th in Gridley, California. He lived a full and blessed life of 94 years. Lauro, lovingly called Abuelo, was a compassionate and kind-hearted man. He held many roles: father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. Known for his hard work and greatness, everyone who met him remembers his kindness and the smile he always wore.

A beloved long-time resident of Gridley, he dedicated many years to working on Chambers Ranch. In retirement, he cherished time with his family, hosting barbecues and sharing his gardening expertise.

He never missed a family event, always celebrating milestones, big or small. Every holiday, birthday, wedding or Sunday dinner, he was there. Passionate about farming and working with his hands, he was known for his green thumb, which he lovingly passed on to his grandchildren.

He can also be remembered for driving his truck around town, even in his final days. When he wasn’t out on the road, he was home in his favorite armchair, enjoying the company of his family.

He is survived by his loving wife Lois Del Rio, his five children: Arturo, Lauro (Linda), Anita (Ignacio), Christina (David), and Eddie (Becky); his eleven grandchildren, and seventeen great-grandchildren. He is also remembered by countless cousins, friends, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesus and Jovita Del Rio, his six brothers: Vincente, Antonio, Rocendo, Ignacio, Miguel, and Francisco, as well as his son, Miguel.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 21st at 11:00 am at the Gridley Moose Lodge. If you’d like to send flowers or a memorial gift to the family, you may contact the Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel at (530) 846-2138.

Lauro’s memory will forever live on in our hearts. His love, wisdom, and spirit will always be with us, and we are grateful for the time we had with him. Rest in peace, dear Abuelo. You will be missed, but never forgotten and your armchair will always be filled with your grandkids.

Arrangements entrusted to Gridley-Block Funeral Chapel.