Final Salute

Timothy L. Fringer passed away at his home in Madera, California, on March 8, 2025. He was 77 years old. He is preceded in death by his son, Arthur Fringer; mother, Leona Jones; father, Cleith Lee Fringer; and sister, Joy Saragosa.

Tim was a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he served two tours in the Navy as a Seabee. Seabees (Naval Construction Force) played a crucial role beyond conventional warfare, constructing essential infrastructure like airfields, roads and facilities, while also engaging in civic action projects and, at times, even directly supporting combat units. The discipline and patriotism he learned in the Navy never left him, as family and friends will attest.

He was born in Caney, Kansas and grew up in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Once he joined the Navy, he was stationed at Port Hueneme in Ventura, California. While stationed there, he met the love of his life, Lorraine, and the rest is history. Tim and Lorraine created a life together in Santa Barbara, California, and then Carpinteria, California, for 32 years before moving to Madera to retire and be close to their grandchildren. Together, they raised their children and had a successful diesel repair shop in Santa Barbara: Southcoast Motortruck.

Tim was always up for a good time with family and friends and loved having parties and get-togethers that always included great food and stiff drinks. He was a self-made man and a walking textbook of knowledge. He was a master mechanic and could fix and solve any issue that he came across. His love for his family was unconditional and he was so proud of his children and grandchildren for becoming such successful independent people in the game of life.

Tim is survived by his wife of 54 years, Lorraine; son, Jason Fringer; daughter, Melinda Long (Darryl); and daughter-in-law, Laurie Fringer. He also leaves behind five grandchildren, Forrester Fringer, Mikaela Lamle (Jared), Alexis Fringer, Regan Fringer and Taylor Long, and a nephew, John Paul Saragosa.

Services will be held Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Jay Chapel in Madera. Visitation will be before the service from 9—11 a.m. There will be a luncheon reception following the service.