Rudy Avila

On Oct. 26, 2021, Francisco "Rudy" Avila went home to the Lord at the age of 69.

Rudy was born on Sept. 21, 1952, in Patterson, Calif., to Francisco and Librada Avila.

He joined the Navy in 1970 and while in the service began his life-long career in human resources.

On Aug. 27, 1983, he married Yvonne Barreto Avila. Together they raised three children, Jacob, Matthew, and Leah. He became a believer in Jesus Christ in 1987 and would read his Bible and pray for others daily. His favorite verse was John 3:17: [BEGIN ITAL]For God did not send the Son into the world in order to judge the world, but that the world might find salvation and be made safe and sound through Him. [END ITAL]

Work was Rudy's passion and he saw human resources as the key to ensuring that people had a good work environment where they could feel supported. Rudy loved working with kids and was involved in the children's ministry at church and officiating youth sports. He worked for over 30 years in the AWANA program teaching children about God's word. He started umpiring softball games while in high school and continued to officiate throughout his lifetime.

He is survived by his wife, Yvonne; his daughter, Leah; his sons, Matthew and Jacob; his granddaughter, Grace; and his grandsons, Giovanni, Mason, Callen and Baylor; as well as his numerous siblings, nieces, nephew, and cousins.

Due to covid concerns, the memorial service will be held virtually on Wednesday, Nov. 3, 2021 at 1 p.m. through the Peters Funeral Home Facebook page. A reception will be held after the service at Wasco Veterans Hall.