LOS ANGELES — The legacy of Fernando Valenzuela was celebrated during a heartfelt funeral on Wednesday, showcasing not only his impressive pitching career with the Los Angeles Dodgers but also his deep Catholic faith.
During the service at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, Archbishop José Gomez honored the late pitcher by sprinkling holy water on his casket and later wafting incense in a solemn ritual. A joyful portrait of Valenzuela adorned the altar, highlighting the vibrant spirit he brought to his role as both a player and a community figure.
Rev. James Anguiano, who delivered the sermon, shared his sentiments about the untimely loss, remarking, “His death came too soon.” The public Mass attracted numerous fans, many arrived donned in Dodgers apparel, including some proudly wearing Valenzuela’s iconic No. 34 jersey. Attendees captured memorable moments on their smartphones as a poignant tribute to a beloved athlete.
Valenzuela passed away on October 22 at the age of 63, just days prior to the Dodgers beginning their successful journey towards clinching the franchise’s eighth World Series title, where they ultimately triumphed over the New York Yankees in five games. No specific details regarding the cause of his death have been shared with the public.
Reflecting on Valenzuela’s passion for the game, Anguiano said, “I really think Fernando hoped to witness the Dodgers win the World Series this year, but you know he did witness the Dodgers as champions. Fernando had a front-row seat, perfect from heaven.” Mike Scioscia, who caught many of Valenzuela’s memorable games, expressed his belief that the late player was celebrating alongside the team, reinforcing the connection Valenzuela had with his teammates and fans alike.
The Dodgers, with Valenzuela’s remarkable contributions, won the World Series in 1981. He holds the distinction of being the only player to receive both the NL Cy Young Award and Rookie of the Year honors in the same season. Scioscia celebrated Valenzuela’s humility and perseverance, noting, “He was 20 years old in 1981 when he was going through Fernandomania and he just kept perspective the whole way. He always felt he was the best in the world but he never told anybody about it.”
Fernando Valenzuela Jr. offered an emotional tribute to his father in Spanish during the service, taking moments to collect himself as he spoke. Valenzuela’s wife, Linda, and their children—Ricardo, Linda, and Maria—along with his grandchildren, formed a supportive presence in the front row.
Rev. Anguiano reflected on Valenzuela’s unique pitching style, saying, “Fernando no longer has to look up nor does he have to look down,” symbolizing the way he would gaze upwards during his delivery. He added, “Fernando is alive and present in our hearts and in our lives.” The emotional service featured the musical talents of the Mariachi Sol de Mexico, who performed throughout, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere.
The ceremony concluded with eight pallbearers tenderly carrying Valenzuela’s casket, which was adorned with white roses, to a waiting hearse, symbolizing the love and respect held for him. Among the mourners were several former Dodgers players such as Orel Hershiser, Reggie Smith, and Jerry Reuss, alongside notable figures including former Dodgers owner Peter O’Malley and current president and CEO Stan Kasten.
Valenzuela’s former colleagues from the team’s Spanish-language broadcasts, including Jaime Jarrín and José Mota, also attended the service, demonstrating the profound impact Valenzuela had across different facets of the baseball community.