Freddy Zapata

Freddy, beloved father, husband, loving grandfather, brother, esteemed veteran and friend, passed away on May 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on August 8, 1955, he lived a life filled with simplicity, generosity, and unwavering love for those around him.

Freddy was a man of integrity, whose reserved yet lighthearted nature touched the lives of everyone he met. He was born to Alonso and Blanca Zapata in Bogota, Colombia, where he grew up with a deep appreciation for family values and hard work. These values shaped his character throughout his life, guiding him in his personal and professional endeavors.

After completing his education at Jamaica High School in Queens, NY, he answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force. Throughout his 23 years of service, Freddy exemplified the Air Force’s core values of integrity first and service before self. Shortly after retiring as Msgt at Travis AFB, he then went on to pursue his second career at Valero refinery in Benicia for the next 15 years. He then went on to official retirement moving to S. Korea for a few years before finally settling in Mesa, AZ. His commitment to excellence and his passion for his work were evident in everything he did.

Outside of his professional life, Freddy cherished spending time with his family. He was a devoted husband to Kisun for 38 years, and is survived by his daughters Diana, Monica, Jessica, and Elizabeth who have been the lights of his life. He found great joy in sharing life’s simple pleasures with them, whether it was watching cartoons, sharing repeated stories around the dinner table, or enjoying each other’s company.

Freddy was known for his passion for keeping his Jeep in immaculate condition and saluting every Jeep that drove by. He enjoyed sneaking table scraps to the dogs even when we said no and could often be found “stalking” our flights to make sure we arrived to our destinations safely.

A memorial service to celebrate Freddy’s life will be held on June 6, 2024 at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery.

Freddy will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will forever remember the time they shared with him.