News

Long Time Supporter of Education Passes at 83: BJ Robinson

Benard Robinson (83), also known by many as “Jake” or “BJ”, passed away on Thursday, May 11, 2017 in Madera. BJ was a very well-known member of the Madera Community. He was a member of the 2nd Missionary Baptist Church in Madera for many years. BJ was also involved with Kiwanis, the NAACP, Chairman of the Deacon Board, and a member of Morning Star Baptist Church in Madera.

BJ also served as a member on the Madera Unified Board of Trustees for many years. Before his retirement, BJ worked for Vintage Buick as a Parts Manager for almost 40 years. The impact he had on the community of Madera will never be forgotten. In 2007, the Gymnasium at Thomas Jefferson Middle School was named after him.

Local Race Car Driver and Farmer Bobby Trigueiro Passes

CARUTHERS - Robert “Bobby” Edward Trigueiro was born January 2, 1942 in Fresno, Ca. and passed away May 1, 2017 in Caruthers, his hometown his entire life. Bobby at the time of his death, was the owner of Bob Trigueiro Custom Farming specializing in Hay Harvesting. Previously, Bobby was partners with his brother Larry, who preceded him in death in December of 2000. They farmed their own ground, as well as doing custom work for various customers for 40 years.

Bobby and Larry also had Trigueiro Brothers Racing, which was famous first in California short track racing then in the later years on national circuits. Their cars were famous for their color orange, and the #1 they carried. The Trigueiro Bros. cars were known to be fast and look as good as any of the cars in the pits.

Gregory Gleichweit (87)

Greg Gleichweit (87) was born on May 10, 1929 to George and Mildred Gleichweit in Madera; he passed away on, April 7, 2017 at the age of 87 in Fresno. He attended Lincoln Grammar School, and graduated from Madera High School class of 1949.

After a course of study at the Brooks Institute of Photography, he began a short career as a photographer. This ended when he enlisted in the Army, and became a Radio Teletype Equipment Repairman. When he was discharged from service, he began repairing radios and televisions, eventually opening his own shop.

Bobby Creamer (63)

Robert Dayne “Bobby” Creamer (63) was born to Willis and Marguerite Cremean Creamer in Madera on January 26, 1954 and passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 17, 2017. Bobby was a lifelong resident of Madera and a member of the Madera First Christian Church.

He worked for Baltimore Aircoil for 35 years until his retirement in 2011. Bobby was a proud member of the Central California Amateur Softball Assn. and the Amateur Softball Assn. He enjoyed playing Slow and Fast Pitch Softball, and was a proficient umpire, proudly dawning his cap and uniform he was expert in keeping the game in control.

Gilbert Valdez (81)

Gilbert Valdez Jr. (81) passed away of a short illness on Tuesday, March 7, 2017. He was a lifelong resident of Madera, and attended Madera High School. Gilbert was a Foreman at Heublein/Canadaigua Wines for 36 years before retiring, and was a former Volunteer Fireman for the City of Madera, and a former member of YMI of St. Joachim’s Parish.

Gilbert was a loving Husband, Father and Grandpa. Gilbert was a friend to everyone. He enjoyed visiting with everyone and had a great sense of humor. He will be missed by all.

Justin J. Garza (41)

Justin J. Garza (41) passed away peacefully on February 20, 2017 at his parent's home surrounded by his family. Justin Garza was born to Dr. San Juan and Chipper Josie Garza on July 25, 1975, in Daly City, CA. Justin was a loving father, husband, teacher, coach and friend to all. He had an ability to reach people in a deep and positive way.

Justin lived out his passion for coaching for over 20 years, investing his life into coaches, players and communities. His coaching career included assistant coaching at San Joaquin Memorial, Kerman, Reedley, and Central High Schools before he moved on as head football coach at Reedley, Sunnyside and Central High Schools.

Carol Ann Wilkins Martinazzi (56)

Carol Ann Wilkins Martinazzi (56) was born on March 6, 1960, in Madera, CA. She passed away on February 10, 2017. Carol Ann was a life-long resident of Madera, until moving to Chowchilla a few years ago.

She was a devoted stay at home mother to her two children as they grew up. Carol Ann always enjoyed time spent at the lake with her family and friends, as well as numerous family hunting trips.