News

Steve Jack Zupanovich (Mr. “Z”) went peacefully home to Jesus, surrounded by his family, on May 17, 2023, at age 92. Steve was born to Jack and Maria Zupanovich in San Pedro, California, on December 22, 1930.

As a child, Steve loved spending time on the fishing boats, playing in the harbor, and fishing with his Dad and Barba Jack. However, from the time he played Senor Bandini in the 3rd grade, he had a keen interest in everything historical. In 1943 Steve, his sister Margaret and his parents moved to Kerman, where he graduated high school and spent most of his adult life. Shortly after high school, Steve enlisted in the Marine Corps and joined George Company in Korea from 1948 to 1952, where he earned two purple hearts and a bronze star for bravery. Steve was always modest and would often joke that he did what any of his buddies would do!

Rick L. Logoluso (67) passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, April 27, 2023. He was born in Madera, CA, on January 6, 1956, to Tony M. and Maxine M. Logoluso (both deceased). Rick attended Ripperdan Elementary School, graduated from Madera High School in 1974, and briefly attended Reedley College.

Since Rick was born into a grape-farming family, his occupation was already predetermined. After attending Reedley College, he returned to the family farm and farmed with both his father and his brother Michael (deceased). Although Rick spent most of his life farming, his true love was playing the accordion solely or with his band. Rick enjoyed bringing a smile to people’s faces or watching them enjoy themselves dancing!

Louise Hill (81) passed away on Sunday, April 30, 2023. She was born in San Francisco and was a resident of Madera since 1944. Louise graduated from Madera High School Class of 1959. Louise worked for Frank Aprile and with her husband, Larry at their insurance office.

She enjoyed traveling in the RV with Larry. When not in the RV, she enjoyed trips to Hawaii. Also, she looked forward to the many games of Pinochle with Larry, Wayne, and Lorna.

Genevieve (Gena) Bomprezzi (97) was born in Stonewall, Oklahoma, the daughter of Walter Scott Kirby and Willie (Stubblefield) Kirby. A resident of Madera, CA, for 83 years. Gena passed away Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at Madera Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

Gena graduated from Madera High School in 1944. She worked for Sherman Thomas Ranch and Federal Land Bank and retired from Federal Land Bank after 20 years. Gena worked alongside her husband on the family farm for over 72 years. She milked cows, raised calves, rode cotton planters, mowed alfalfa, drove tractors, irrigated, and sprayed herbicides. Even after her husband's death in 1999, she continued running the family farm with her two sons until 2017.

Mrs. Carmen Gallegos (88) was a lifelong resident of Madera, California, and passed away on April 22, 2023. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband of more than 65 years, Philip J. Gallegos, her mother, Henrietta Parma Lopez, and sisters, Elsie Rubio and Helen Perez.

Carmen was an incredible mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. She is survived by her son Philip & (wife) Terri Gallegos of Madera, son Daniel & (wife) Cindy Gallegos of Bakersfield, daughter Cindy & (husband) Stefan Edelbacher of Brentwood, daughter Diana & (husband) Miguel Gonzalez of Madera, daughter Cece Foley-Gallegos of Madera.

Augie E. Valencia (76) - dedicated husband, father, grandfather, and friend - passed away on April 10, 2023, at the age of 76. He is survived by his wife, Debbie; children, Marco and his wife Michele, Nathan and his wife Stephanie, Aaron and his wife Ashley, and Jenna; grandchildren, Jeff, Echo, Blake, Josh, Hendrix, and Nolan; and in-laws Leon and Doris Potter.

After moving to the United States, he was raised in Northfork, California, and graduated from Sierra Joint Union Highschool in 1966. Following his time in the U.S. Navy, his love of learning led him to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University, Fresno. Augie’s drive to inspire others guided him to become a coach, educator, and administrator. He touched the hearts of students and staff through his time at Washington, Eastin Arcola, and Lincoln Elementary.