RIDE ‘TIL THE WHEELS FALL OFF

Indeed, he did. To know Frankie Avelar was to know a man who unapologetically lived life his own way. He was a caution-to-the-wind kind of guy who believed rules were made for breakin’, and he danced to the beat of his own drum until the very end—with a spark in his eye and a huge grin.

After 67 years of wild and adventurous chapters, the book has unfortunately closed for Frank John Avelar, Jr. On September 20, 2025, he passed away at the VA Hospital due to respiratory failure brought on by lung cancer, heart failure, and a sudden blood clot. Frankie was a proud U.S. Navy Veteran, a loving father, grandfather, and friend, and a man who left his mark on everyone who knew him.

While Frankie had final wishes that his daughters would very much like to honor, no funds were set aside. He did not have life insurance, and the VA does not cover cremation costs upfront—they only reimburse weeks later, and only in part. That means all expenses are due immediately, and his daughters are struggling to make ends meet during this difficult time.

Frankie’s wishes were simple but deeply meaningful: to be cremated and have his ashes spread in Yosemite, a place as wild and free as the way he lived his life. To make this possible, we are asking for your help to raise $2,500.

How your donations will help:

• $1,450 – Upfront cremation costs, including several death certificates and securing the release of Frankie’s ashes to his daughters.

• $375 – Estimated cost of a safe one-night hotel stay plus gas for his daughters to carry out the trip to Yosemite.

• $350 – Travel support for one of Frankie’s daughters to fly in from Oklahoma to honor her father’s wishes.

• $325 – A small cushion to cover unexpected costs, bottled waters, sodas, and printing pictures for a casual celebration of life picnic.

Because of financial strain, no formal service will be held. Instead, there will be a simple, potluck-style gathering at a park to celebrate Frankie’s life, with details shared soon. If we are blessed with more contributions than expected, we will use them to arrange a proper memorial service.

Even $5 helps bring us closer to honoring Frankie’s last wishes. Every donation—big or small—means the world to his family.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your kindness, generosity, and support in helping us send Frankie off the way he lived: wild, free, and on his own terms.