The Southern California boxing community took a big hit yesterday. The venerable and esteemed Frank Baltazar Sr has passed away. Frank was often referred to as the Godfather of Boxing on the West Coast but apart and beyond that, Frank was a good friend to me.He was a decent man, a good husband, father, grandfather and a good friend to many.
Over the years he regaled us with stories about an earlier, and better, time in boxing. He also paid tribute to his days growing up in the Simon's Brick Compny town. He told stories about his father, mother and other people from the company. Knowingly or unknowingly he was preserving a slice of Southern California, Montebello and Chicano history. We should be grateful for that. Frank was an old school man, much like my own father. He was a man who kept his word, lived with integrity and honor, and when need be, spoke his mind.
On a personal note, it was Frank who nominated me for induction into the California Boxing Hall of Fame in 2012. I will be forever grateful.
My prayers and condolences to Connie and the entire Baltazar family, as well as those that were fortunate to call him friend.
God Bless you Frank, go with God and I'll see you when I see you.
Please extend your condolences to the Baltazar family.
Photo: Frankie (Frank Baltazar Jr.) me and Frank Baltazar Sr.
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