Franklin J. Souza, 82, of Gustine, passed away Thursday, October 23, 2025, at his residence.

Mr. Souza was born in Los Banos, California, and was a lifelong resident of Gustine for more than 80 years. He worked hard his entire life, beginning on his family’s dairy at a young age. He later worked for several companies before starting his own business in 1982, FS Commercial Fertilizer Spreading & Backhoe Service. Together with his beloved wife, Joyce, he built a long-standing, well-respected business that he continued to operate until his passing.

An avid hunter, Mr. Souza enjoyed hunting wild game in both New Mexico and California. His greatest passion was duck hunting and preparing the club for each season’s hunt. More than the sport itself, he cherished the time spent with his friends and family.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Joyce; his parents, Manuel and Mary Souza; and his brothers, Daniel Souza of Los Banos and Jerry Souza of Gustine.

He is survived by his two daughters, Corina Wolfsen (Chuck) of Newbury, Ohio, and Christina Gomes (Richie) of Gustine; brothers, Norbert Souza (Karen) of Gustine and Norman Souza (Johnna) of Ceres; sisters, Marie Pricolo (Larry) of Fresno and Jannet Herring of Sisters, Oregon; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Miracles in Gustine.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shrine of Our Lady of Miracles, 370 Linden Avenue, Gustine, California 95322, or to a charity of choice.

Services conducted by Hillview Funeral Chapel, Gustine.