LOS ANGELES — Fernando Valenzuela was remembered for “having the heart of a lion” throughout his stellar pitching career with the Dodgers during a funeral highlighting his Catholic faith on Wednesday.
Archbishop José Gomez sprinkled holy water on Valenzuela’s casket and later waved incense over it. Nearby a portrait of a smiling Valenzuela rested against the altar.
“His death came too soon,” the Rev. James Anguiano said in his sermon.
The public Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels in downtown Los Angeles included fans wearing Dodgers gear, some in Valenzuela’s No. 34 jersey. Many held up cell phones to record moments.
Valenzuela died on Oct. 22 at age 63, three days before the Dodgers began their eventual run to the franchise’s eighth World Series championship, beating the New York Yankees in five games last week. No cause of death was given.
“I know like I’m standing here that Fernando is up there, he’s letting us know he’s doing well and he’s celebrating along with the Dodgers in their World Series championship,” said Mike Scioscia, who caught Valenzuela in many of his starts in 1981, including a five-hit shutout on Opening Day.
