JOE FREITAS III

Joe Freitas III (Joe-Joe), beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025.

Born on December 28, 1947, to Julie and Joe Freitas Jr., Joe grew up surrounded by family, faith, and farming. He graduated from South High School in 1966 and attended Bakersfield College, Cal Poly, and Fresno State, where he was a proud member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity. During his college years, he took a semester off to recover from illness and returned home to help with the family farm—an early sign of his lifelong dedication to both family and agriculture.

On June 10, 1972, Joe married the love of his life, Pauline Ansolabehere. Together, they built a beautiful life, raised three children, and were blessed with five amazing grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy.

Joe spent most of his life farming, a career that reflected his deep love of the land and livestock. Even after losing his vision, his passion for agriculture never dimmed. He will be remembered for his big heart, his infectious laugh, and a smile that could light up any room. Joe’s special gift for making others feel loved and welcomed will be missed by family and friends but they take comfort in knowing that he can see again.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Julie and Joe Freitas Jr., and his brothers, Charlie, Donald, and Victor Freitas. He is survived by his loving wife, Pauline; his children, Tony (Jenn), Joseph, and Kim Dixon (Chris); his cherished grandchildren—Jolee Freitas, Nicholas Freitas, Paige Dixon, William Dixon, and AJ Dixon; his sisters, Diane Boultinghouse and Joanne Diniz (Joe); his sister-in-law, Diana Freitas; his cousin, Maryann Mendez (Randy); and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Rosary will be held at 10:00 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 5, at St. Francis Church in Bakersfield.

Joe’s legacy of love, laughter, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to any of the following:

Foundation Fighting Blindness

Fresno State Ag One Foundation

Kern County Basque Club