Frederick Charles Tafoya, Sr.

TAFOYA, Frederick Charles - age 76, of Flint passed into eternal life on January 6, 2024 in Marquette, MI. Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 AM Friday, January 12, 2024 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, 2316 Coldwater Rd., Flint, MI 48505. Interment will follow at New Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Flint. Visitation will be held 2-4 and 6-8 PM Thursday, January 11, 2024 at Sharp Funeral Homes, Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Rd., Swartz Creek, MI 48473 where a rosary will be prayed at 7 PM Thursday night. Visitation will also be held from 10 AM - 11 AM Friday at the church. 
 
Fred was born in Flint, MI to Mary and Joseph Tafoya where he enjoyed a vibrant childhood with 8 siblings. He had a strong work ethic and began his work in the grocery business as a young adult. He had excellent management and people skills. Fred had a remarkable gift of engaging storytelling in any social setting. He was a relentless and astute problem solver and often lightened the mood of any room with creative wit and one of a kind humor and charm.

His biggest and foremost passion and gifting was being the best Dad on the planet. He was selfless and always put his kids first, whether making quality time for them in after work play, or sacrificing assets to provide for their wants in addition to their needs. Dadhood was Fred’s top priority. He laughed with and loved them tirelessly with all that he had. He also offered this gift freely amongst nephews and nieces and children in general. This timeless youth loving gift of his transitioned into loving his beloved 4 grandchildren with the best of his capabilities as Grandpa. 

He would brave elements and selflessly serve and meet any friend or family member in need. He did not let inclement weather, or even a concussion keep him from meeting his loved ones. His smooth advice to someone in need was impeccable. He was always up to any menial or formidable task, and was willing to help  find a solution, no matter the problem or difficulty. 

In his personal pursuits, physical activity was always prevalent and included recreational jogging, regular long distance road-biking, racquetball (he made it to national level competitions,) card games, softball, and steadfast walking in later years. He was a smooth dancer and enjoyed his recreational music- listening and sing alongs- especially the romantic Spanish ballads. He also never turned down a tropical escape to the warmer climates as he enjoyed his travels. 

He loved his family- siblings, nieces and nephews, and all of his relatives with thoughtful affections and fierce dedication. He had a passion and knack for cooking Mexican food. His tacos, rice, and deviled eggs are like none other. He would even cook extra servings for coworkers in need or a Thanksgiving meal for a homeless man under a highway overpass. He was benevolent and didn’t think twice about sharing his talents, time, energies, and service with those in need who came along his path.

Fred is relentless, loving, and strong with his family, friends, and service. Any who knew him were lucky to have been affected by his infectious one of a kind pizazzy personality. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, and his lasting imprint on us will have a perpetual ripple effect of goodness.

Surviving are children, Fred Tafoya Jr. of Fenton, Heather (Eric) Turner of Negaunee; siblings, Rose Tafoya, Olga Kleckner both of Flint Township and David Tafoya of Cheboygan; grandchildren, Catalina Tafoya of Miami, FL and Kaden, Liam, Gavin Turner of Negaunee; bonus son, Connor Korhonen (special nephew) of Franklin, TN; bonus daughter, Nini Suarez of Miami, FL; and supportive friends, Rhonda Ureche of Fenton, and Etta Simula of Ishpeming; along with many nieces, nephews and loving family members. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mary Tafoya, Robert (Uncle Jr.) Reyna, Lorenzo (Lencho) Tafoya, Mary (Lenna) Eagleson, Joseph (Rudy) Tafoya, and Baby Richard Tafoya.

In Lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to a charity of your choice that supports children.

Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com