Francisco “Frank” R. Carrillo, son to the late Eulalio Carrillo and Marcellena Carrillo was born November 9th, 1919 in General Teran, Nuevo Leon, Mexico. He worked on the railroads in McAllen, Texas for some time before joining his family members as the first migrant family to settle in the Independence area. He would go on to work as a local ranch hand before joining Boise Cascade in 1964 where he would ultimately retire in 1981.
Frank was joined in holy matrimony on April 21st, 1961 to Nellie (Waldron) Carrillo. This union was blessed with 7 children. Frank was preceded in death by Richard & Wayne Speten (sons), Pablo Carrillo (brother) Dominga Salinas (sister) and Christina Speten (granddaughter).
Mr. Carrillo always had a charm about him like no other. Whether he wanted to tell you a story or simply frolic with grandchildren on his lap, the man knew how to make you smile. His home was always a safe haven for friends and family members who found themselves in dire straits. He loved to fiddle with small objects like a child playing with legos. He usually had a stash of mixed nuts or some form of candy nearby he would stealthily sneak past his wife. As sweet as the old man was, he was equally a disciplinarian in more youthful times. If you gave the man any lip he would trade you for an ear, as this writer can attest to; I can still feel the sting. He believed in hard work, respect, kindness, affection, and family values. He loved scenic drives to the coast, countryside and visiting aforementioned relatives at the cemetery. Despite his age the man never stopped wanting to look good, you could often find him in a long-sleeved buttoned-up shirt, fresh shave and haircut with a hint of tres flores peppering the air. His interests included tending to his garden, collecting coins, building birdhouses and small woodworks and having barbecues.
Frank is survived by his wife, Nellie Carrillo; siblings, Maria Carrillo, Cipriano (Shorty) Carrillo; children, Sharon Gonzales, Toni (Roger) Place, Tami (Ralph) Siegfried, Marcellena (Bill Foster) Carrillo, Andrew (Mary) Speten; 14 grandchildren; 39 great-grandchildren and numerous great-great-grandchildren.
A private memorial gathering will be held in Frank's honor. Farnstrom Mortuary is caring for the family.
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