Francisco “Paco” Fuentes: A Legacy of Service, Leadership, and Love for Community

Francisco “Paco” Fuentes was born in León, Guanajuato, Mexico, and came to Omaha as a child with his family, chasing the promise of new beginnings. From an early age, he embodied the values of hard work, humility, and dreams. Dreams he would turn into a lifelong mission to uplift others and his family.

A proud Omaha South High graduate from the Class of 1977, Paco enlisted in the United States Air Force at 19. He went on to serve more than two decades in military intelligence, retiring with the rank of Master Sergeant. His years in uniform shaped him with discipline and leadership, but most importantly, deepened his devotion to service.

Returning to South Omaha, Paco found his calling in community work. As director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Midlands’ South Omaha Club, he transformed the space into more than just a gathering place. It became a hub of education, prevention, and opportunity. It was a place where countless young people discovered hope and direction under his watch. Later, he carried this mission into outreach roles with Goodwill Omaha, continuing to connect families with resources and possibilities.

In September 2025, the Omaha City Council honored Paco with a proclamation and Civic Center tribute, memorializing his portrait alongside Latino artists’ work. It was a fitting reminder that Paco represented more than himself. Paco embodied the heartbeat of the Latino community. He was South Omaha.

Though he is no longer with us, Paco’s legacy lives on in classrooms, clubs, and in every young life he touched. His blueprint is clear: serve with love, lead with integrity, and always lift as you climb.