TURLOCK, Calif. — The somber tones of bag pipes outside of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Turlock led a processional of mourners, family, friends and co-workers of Cesar Fuentes, a San Joaquin County correctional sergeant.
Fuentes, 32, was killed Jan. 12 when he was headed home after work and crashed into a pick-up truck in French Camp. Ten days later, Fuentes was buried in the same Turlock community in which he was born.
"He was just a phenomenal person," said Fuentes' sister, Marlene Larios. "He was very funny — little tornado. And he's always wanted to serve since I can remember."
Fuentes spent much of his life doing just that — serving his country and community. After graduating from Livingston High School in Turlock, Fuentes served 12 years in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, and did tours of duty in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan.
RELATED: San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office Correctional Sergeant killed in motorcycle accident | Update
Daniel De Lashmutt was a close friend of Fuentes’ who served alongside him in both the marines and in the San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office.
"In the Marine Corps, he loved it. Just being a service member doing his duty," De Lashmutt said. "…He just had a big heart and felt that was his calling."
Fuentes later joined the sheriff's office, working as a correctional sergeant. One night after work, Fuentes was driving his motorcycle headed eastbound on Matthews Road, close to the sheriff's office in French Camp.
He had just finished his shift and was headed home. That's when a pick-up truck parked on the shoulder suddenly made a u-turn right in front of his motorcycle, officials said.
The six-year veteran of the sheriff’s office was rushed to the hospital where he later died.
"We surely appreciate all the support from the local law enforcement agencies to be here and share this time with us and celebrate this good man's life," said San Joaquin County Sheriff Pat Withrow.
The flag that draped Fuentes' coffin had special meaning; it was used to cover the caskets of other military service members who lost their lives when sent home from service in the Middle East.
Now, that flag covers his casket.
"Always had the intention to do something special with it," De Lashmutt said. "And, it wasn't until I got the call from another deputy saying that we needed a flag for Cesar — I knew immediately that flag had to be draped over him," added De Lashmutt.
The California Highway Patrol is still investigating the accident that took Fuentes' life. The 60-year-old man who drove the pick-up truck that collided with Fuentes was not hurt.
Follow the conversation on Facebook with Kurt Rivera.
FOR NEWS IN YOUR COMMUNITY, DOWNLOAD THE ABC10 APP:
►Stay In the Know! Sign up now for ABC10's Daily Blend Newsletter