Francisco (Frank) Reyes Najera

Long time Auburn resident, Frank Najera, finished his life journey on this earthly plane, and passed into eternity, on July 4, 2022. Frank was born in Wyoming and will be remembered as an entrepreneur. He started his career in Watsonville, CA as a hairdresser/ owner of a beauty salon, Casa Munras Beauty Salon and owner of a Mexican Seafood restaurant with his former wife Lee Najera. He moved to Auburn in 1979 where he continued his beauty career and ownership of Vaesa Beauty Supply and Salon located downtown and retired in 2012. He was also a dedicated practitioner of Martial Arts, and an active volunteer in many community events. Frank was a well-known figure at the annual Thanksgiving Feast held at the Auburn Fairgrounds where he was affectionately known as the " Potato Man". Saturday mornings you would find Frank at St. Joseph's Catholic Church where he volunteered at the thrift shop. the Buddhist Church in Penryn, Ca could always rely on Frank to help prepare for the Buddhist Festival, and any other event held at the church. As an extension of his Martial Art training, Frank devoted time and energy to learning the art of Japanese Calligraphy. It was his greatest pleasure to gift many of his friends and family with artwork made specific for each person. Many of his paintings were displayed at the Buddhist Church during the Fal Festival. Frank was proceeded in life by his daughter Fina, and son Dupree. He is survived by his devoted daughter Candie, by his loving six grandsons, five granddaughters, nine precious great grandchildren, two sisters Alice and Rosie and a very special friend who was also an amazing part of the family's life Gelene Sorrentino. A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date in North San Juan, Ca where his ashes will join The River of Time.