Frank Paul Calderon or “Papa Frank”, at age 89, peacefully entered into eternal life from Congestive Heart Failure illness on February 24, 2020 in his home in Lynwood, California. He was a devout Catholic with a steadfast faith in God’s love and mercy that guided him through the milestones of his life. He lived his life according to his motto, “For God, Family and Country”. He carried in his pocket, his Rosary, family pictures, and the U.S. Constitution.
Frank was born to Francisco A. Calderon Sr. and Mary Vicencio (Maria de la Paz Vicencio) Calderon in Canton Ohio on July 29, 1930. He served in the United States Army, 1st armored division, Artillery from 1951-53 during the Korean War and was honorably discharged for his faithful service to our great nation. In the year 1959 he moved to Los Angeles to work in construction. There he met his wife of 55 years; Pearline Marion (Gentle) Calderon and on May 29, 1965 devoted his love to her in marriage until his passing. Frank then worked for the U.S. Postal Service as a mail handler for 26 years and was a postal union representative for 16 years until his early retirement in 1992. He dropped out of high school to earn family income when his father passed. He earned his G.E.D and a diploma from American Barber College, Los Angeles CA.
Frank attended the Oratory of St. Francis of Assisi in Van Nuys, Ca. He prayed daily; his favorite, the Holy Rosary. A disabled veteran, Frank tirelessly advocated for the rights and dignity of all, especially for seniors and the disabled. Papa Frank’s endearing sense of humor, funny faces, and smile were amiable. We miss your jokes! He loved reading, writing and sharing wisdom; he was a great self-learner. He loved music, family outings, walking, light-hearted debates, westerns, food (especially anything chocolate), and his cup of coffee.
He leaves behind his loving Family: Loving wife, Pearline Calderon, Children: Eric Wayne (Cecilia) Calderon of Fredericksburg, VA, Erica Theresa Calderon of Lynwood, CA, Angela Dolores Calderon of Downey, CA, Paul DeWayne (Fadwa) Calderon of West Hills, CA, Grandchildren: Crystal Olgadez of Virginia, Christine Calderon of Virginia, Brandon Calderon of Washington, Amber Johnson of Georgia, Halle Johnson of Los Angeles, CA, Saidah Zapata-Calderon of Long Beach, CA. Frank was blessed to be a Great Grandfather of 8 beautiful great grandchildren. He is also survived by a nephew, Frederick “Freddie” Calderon of Ohio. Siblings: Mary Cecilia Calderon of Los Angeles, CA
He is predeceased in death by his Father, Mother, Brother Ferdinand Joseph Calderon, and several Uncles.
In lieu of flowers and gifts, please donate to Frank’s Church,
Oratory of Saint Francis of Assisi
, and/or his Charity,
Veteran's Legal Institute
Mail Donations for Oratory of Saint Francis of Assisi:
Post Office Box 8469
Van Nuys, CA 91409-8469
Mail donations for Veterans Legal Institute:
Attn: Antoinette Balta
2100 N Broadway, Ste 209
Santa Ana, CA 92706
Condolences may be left to the family through our website.