MALDONADO, Edward M. (Flaco)

Eastern Arizona Courier, Safford, AZ Monday, November 24, 2003 Edward M. "Flaco" Maldonado passed away Nov. 14, 2003, in Safford. Edward was born on Aug. 17, 1923, in Metcalf to Clemente and Matilde Maldonado. In 1943 he was drafted into the U.S. Army where he served as a medical technician during World War II. While serving his country, he received the Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, with two bronze stars, Philippine Liberation medal with bronze stars, Good Conduct Medal and the Distinguished Unit Badge. After being honorably discharged, he met and married Josephine Gauna. Together they had seven children. Edward retired from Phelps Dodge in 1983 after 39 years of service. He was a powder truck driver/magazine keeper. Edward is survived by his children, Mary Lou Aguilar of Safford, Linda and (Bruce) Shiflet of Safford, Edward Jr. of Tucson, Nora and (Tom) Schnell of Safford, Joe and (Sandra) Maldonado of Safford; his sisters, Adela Dominguez of Phoenix, and Clemencia Saldivar of Fresno, Calif.; two brothers, Alfredo and Jimmy Maldonado of Safford; 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Edward was preceded in death by his wife, Josephine, and two daughters, Esther and Dora. A rosary and prayer vigil were recited on Tuesday evening at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. A Mass of Christian burial was held Nov. 19 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church with Father Domenico Pinti as celebrant. Interment followed in the San Jose Cemetery with military honors from the Gila Valley Honor Gurard. Arrangements were en-trusted to Bunker's Caldwell Chapel.