Valentine M. Mata

It saddens our heart to announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, Valentine Mata, on February 9, 2023 at the grand age of 93. He is survived by children Valerie Lugo (Al), Raul Mata, Gloria Bailey (Jim) grandchildren Elizabeth Jimenez (Thomas), Alexander Lugo, and great-grandchildren Christopher, Benjamin and Wyatt Jimenez; and siblings Lucy Lainas, Kathleen Knisely, Felix and Albert Mata. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Hope Mata, sons Lawrence Mata and Manuel Reynoso; siblings Ted and Joe Mata, Augie Percival, Amelia Gazell, Rita Green, and Lola Castillo-Reynoso. 
 
Born in Guinda, CA on February 14, 1929, his childhood in Capay Valley instilled a lifelong passion for local agriculture and community activity. A graduate of Esparto High School in 1946, he was drafted and served as an Army Sergeant at the Oahu, Hawaii Post during the Korean War and was honorably discharged. He retired after 43 years in the grocery business from Raley’s in 1993. Val married Hope in 1955 and more than anything, he loved his wife and large family. Val’s good humor, friendly smile and generous spirit touched everyone he met and he will forever be remembered for his joyous presence. Val was a 60-year member and past Worthy President of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, American Legion Post 77past Commander, Knights of Columbus past Grand Knight, a golfer with the Mexican American Golf Association, and member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. His volunteer work included the Yolo County Fair and marshalling at the U.S Open golf tournaments at Pebble Beach.
 
A Vigil Service at Smith Funeral Home, 116 D St. Davis will be held on Thursday, February 23, 2023, at 5 p.m. followed by Rosary at 6 p.m. Mass will be held Friday, February 24, 2023, at 10 a.m. at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 575 California St. Woodland.  Rite of Committal at Monument Hill Memorial Park, Hwy 16, Woodland.  A Celebration of his full, vibrant Life at Eagles Aerie Hall, 37650 Hwy 16, Woodland.  In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Holy Rosary Church Building Fund, c/o the Parish Pastoral Center Office or the Eagles Aerie #2345 Organization.