Surrounded by family and friends, Edward Placencia, 86, passed peacefully on Thursday, July 18, 2024, in Texas City, Texas, after a short battle with lung cancer. Edward is preceded in death by his loving wife, Lena Placencia, on Dec. 25, 2023. We all know that Lena could not wait to be with her beloved “Edward” and welcome him home with their loving father.
Edward was an all-around family man. Edward was a loving husband, devoted father, caring grandfather and great-grandfather, a loyal brother, and a friend to all. He was a strong, hardworking, and faithful man. He taught his family to love each other unconditionally. His daughters, brothers, sisters, many nieces and nephews, and cousins looked up to him for guidance, strength, and stability.
Edward was born in Prescott, AZ, on April 25, 1938, and moved to Superior, AZ, in 1953 with his mom and siblings. He graduated from Superior High School in 1957. Edward met and married the love of his life, Lena, in 1959 in Superior, where they would raise their family. Edward enjoyed his life in Superior. He enjoyed the simple things in life, like crossword puzzles, playing cards with his family, fishing, going to the casino, and listening to Tejano music while driving.
Edward instilled a strong work ethic in his family by beginning to work at Griffin Market while in high school in Superior. He continued his work history at the Magma Cooper Company, GM Proving Grounds, Arizona State Prison, Bashas, Cypress Phelps Dodge, and ended at Texas City Independent School District at the age of 70. When Edward was not working, he enjoyed spending time at home working on many home improvement projects, crafts, and decorations for the holidays. He was meticulous on his projects and ensured every detail was completed to perfection. He enjoyed sharing his projects with his family and the look on their faces upon completion.
He was never scared of new opportunities and did everything with honesty and integrity. He had very strong values and was liked by everyone, mostly due to his positive outlook on life. Edward had incredible patience, and always made time to help others. He would say it all comes back to us. Edward cherished the time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren teaching them to be patient and kind to all those whom they might meet along the way.
Edward was a devoted Catholic and served in many different aspects of the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. He was one of the original organizers of the St Francis of Assisi Parish fiestas in 1976, which has now strived to be the biggest fundraising event for the church. He was a Cursillista and Eucharistic minister, who served the homebound, sick, and hospitalized church members. His faith was strong, and this was instilled throughout his family.
Edward and Lena moved to Texas City, TX, in 2006. After moving, they would travel back to Superior and visit for months at a time to help with projects, visit family, and enjoy their hometown. While in Texas City, Edward continued to work, cared for Lena, and helped around the house they shared with Arlene and Richard. Edward enjoyed watching his grandsons play baseball and football (he never missed a game and would always reward them for a good hit, catch and a win) and the many school functions. Football and baseball games will not look the same without him in the stands cheering on the boys, but we know he will continue cheering them on from above.
Edward is survived by his three daughters, Theresa “Louene” Castaneda, Dottie “Arlene” Hernandez (Richard), and Robin Sifuentes (Mike); four grandchildren, Geresa Lopez (Eli), Edward Hernandez (Jennifer), Alex Castaneda (Julia), and Vanessa Hernandez (Trey); 10 great-grandchildren, Zoe and Heaven Lopez, Phoenix, Joaquin, and Edward Hernandez, Alyssa, Richard, Gabrial, and Lorenzo Castaneda, and Richard Krenz IV; five sisters, Mary, Jessie (Jesse), Lily, Evie and Becky.
He is preceded in death by his parents Tomas and Dionisa; five brothers, Tomas Placencia, John “Tico” Placencia, Albert Placencia, Felix Placencia and Cruz Barra; and son-in-law, Richard Castaneda.
Although Edward is gone, his love will carry on through those he leaves behind. His daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren will forever remember the many memories they shared with Edward and the love and support he shed on each of them during his time here on earth.
Funeral arrangements for Edward and Lena will be made at a later date in Superior, AZ.