Edward M. Fresquez, 88, died Friday, July 29, 2011 at his home in Flagstaff, surrounded by his family.

Mr. Fresquez was born October 13, 1922, in Chambarino, N. M. to Felipe and Maria Fresquez. As a teenager, he left the poverty of working on the family farm to join the Civilian Conservation Corp Camps under President Roosevelt's New Deal Program, which led him to Flagstaff, Arizona. He joined the U. S. Navy during World War II and served in the South Pacific. After the war, he returned to Flagstaff and married Lucy Chavez, granddaughter of local homesteaders.

Mr. Fresquez went on to become very successful in business, owning and operating a number of gasoline service stations and convenience markets. Also, he owned Eddie's Drive-In, a popular restaurant in Flagstaff for many years.

Mr. Fresquez is survived by his three children, Joe (Christine) Fresquez, Loretta (Art Solis) Fresquez, and Deborah Fresquez, all of Flagstaff; 4 grandchildren; brother Felipe Fresquez and sister Ramona Enriquez, both of Mesilla Valley, N. M.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Lucy Fresquez.

Private services were held on Wednesday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. He was buried with Lucy at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Mr. Edward Fresquez' name be made to the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Loreto Sisters.)