Joseph Glenn Freitas

Our beloved Joseph Glenn Freitas, who we all knew and loved as "Big Joe," peacefully passed away at his home in Hanford on December 21, 2025. He was 78 years young, and his absence leaves a huge void in our lives.

Joe was a Hanford native through and through, born right here on February 28,1947. He grew up embracing everything this community had to offer, especially during his time at Hanford High School. Graduating in 1965, he was a real star, excelling in basketball, football, and baseball – you could always find him on a field! He was also a proud member of the FFA, showing his early        connection to agriculture.

 On August 9,1969, he married his high school sweetheart, Judi K. Rose. Their story spanned over four decades, and together they built a beautiful family, raising three wonderful children: Joseph, Jeremy, Janee. Our family was always at the center of his world.

Before settling into family life, Joe answered the call to serve his country with incredible bravery. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1969. As part of the legendary 68th Assault Helicopter Company, "The Mustangs," he flew over 25 daring aerial missions in hostile    territory as a helicopter gunner. His courage didn't go unnoticed; he was awarded The Air Medal by President Johnson and later, The Purple Heart, for an injury he sustained in active combat. He truly was a hero.

After his military service, Joe dedicated his life to the land he loved. He was a lifelong farmer right here in Hanford. Not only did he tend to the fields, but he also founded and successfully ran Freitas Farms Inc., a land leveling business that    continues to serve our community with pride to this day. His work ethic was simply unmatched.

Outside of work, Joe had a couple of passions that really made him light up: baseball and fast cars. If he wasn't talking about farming, you could bet he was sharing a story or two about his sons playing baseball or raving about a classic car. He had an endless supply of tales, and he loved to share them with his friends. 

Joe leaves behind a loving family who will miss him dearly: his sons Joseph A. Freitas and Jeremy A. Freitas, his daughter Janee R. Cacciola, and his cherished six grandchildren, Isabella, Branam, Brody, Cohen, Jake, and Drew. He is also survived by his sister, Jacklyn J. Crusha.

We'll all remember Joe for his incredible love for his family, his unwavering   bravery, his generous spirit, and that tenacious work ethic that defined him. He touched so many lives, and though he's gone, his memory will live on in all of us.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph Glenn Freitas, please visit our floral store.