Seferino Navarro Huizar

Seferino Navarro Huizar, known lovingly as “Sef” & “Drill Sergeant”, passed away on October 25, 2026, in Essexville, Michigan, at the age of 79. He was born on March 20, 1947, in San Antonio, Texas, to the late Ramon & Francisca (Navarro) Huizar, he lived a life marked by strength, devotion, and service to others.

Sef proudly served his country in the United States Army as a SFC E-7 and later continued his military commitment in the National Guard, retiring after 20 years of honorable service. His dedication to duty reflected the values that guided his life, including loyalty, perseverance, and responsibility. After his military career, he continued to serve his community through his work for Bay County and the State of Michigan. In every role he held, he was respected for his work ethic, his dependability, and the pride he took in doing things the right way. Sef was descended from defenders of the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas.

Beyond his service and career, Sef found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. He loved collecting antiques, especially tools and coins, and he appreciated the history and character found in treasured pieces from the past. He also enjoyed running with the kids to the Bay in his “Drill Sergeant” role, a pastime that reflected both his energy and his love of family. More than anything, he cherished time spent with those closest to him, and his presence brought warmth, laughter, and comfort to family gatherings and visits with friends.

Sef is survived by his daughter, Angela Huizar (Scott Carver), and his stepchildren, Rose (Mark) Faught, D. J. (Kayla) LaPan, and Felicia LaPan. He also leaves fifteen grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and a very special Goddaughter, Anna “Hopie” Huizar, Godson Jacob Duron, his siblings, Raymond, Elena (Jesse) Ramirez, Diana (Dr. Pedro) Rivera, Maria (James) Monroe, Janie (Scott) DeFrain, Grace (Santos) Rodriguez, sister-in-law Olivia Rodriguez Huizar, along with several nieces and nephews who will carry his memory forward with love.

He was preceded in death by his wife, San Juanita Reyes Huizar, as well as his brothers Jose Luis “Joe” (Judy) Huizar, Pablo “Paul” Huizar, Francisco “Frank” (Kathy) Huizar, stepson, Artie Reyes, niece, Lora Ann, and nephew, Raul Huizar.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, with inurnment at St. Agnes Cemetery.
Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home, Pinconning, MI, was in charge of arrangements.