d. January 17. 2026
Frank R. Medina passed away peacefully on January, 17, 2026. He was 85.
Frank “Frigi” was a lifelong resident of Questa. Frank worked diligently to support and strengthen the community he called home. He was employed by MolyCorp Mine for over 29 years. Additionally, he was the owner of “La Q Pizza and Motel”. As a small-restaurant owner, he provided not just meals but a space where families and friends could gather and share laughter. Frank built two apartment buildings with his own hands and because of his generosity, he allowed many of his tenants to pay what they could.
His dedication to his community extended to local governance as a school board member, councilman and volunteer firefighter, where he worked to improve education and village life. He served as a union representative, who advocated better pay and working conditions. He often shared his voice in local newspapers to raise awareness of important issues affecting his community.
Frank was also an enthusiastic supporter of New Mexico school sports, cheering on not only his children and grandchildren, but all athletes, with genuine pride and encouragement rooted in his deep love of sports. He looked forward to attending the NMAA State Basketball Tournaments every year. For many years he was a season ticket holder for the UNM Lobo Basketball and would travel to every game.
Frank will be remembered by his family and friends as a man of service, kindness and integrity who cared about his community and cheered people on-whether from the bleachers or in everyday life.
Frank is survived by his children, Kenneth Medina (Cathy), James Medina (Tori), and Jennifer Trujillo (John); Sisters: Bertha Valdez, Rose Garcia, and Vicky Salazar (Jimmy); 10 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews, godchildren, and many friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Julian and Delmiria “Della” Medina, his brother, Cleo Medina; and grandson John Gabriel Trujillo. He is also lovingly remembered by the mother of his children, Rosie Martinez, and his two daughters-in-law, Patricia Medina and Vikki Sandoval, who held a special place in his heart.
