Mr. Sergio Barrios-Román, known affectionately by his daughter and granddaughter as "Chico", 68, passed away on January 19, 2026, in Sacramento, California. Born on May 16, 1957, in Mexico City, Mexico, Sergio lived a life defined by resilience, generosity, hard work and an unwavering commitment to community.
Sergio pursued his education at the prestigious Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) before continuing his academic journey at the University of California, Davis. His intellectual curiosity was boundless—he had a deep passion for world history and politics and was known for engaging in thoughtful conversations with people from all walks of life.
A dynamic entrepreneur, Sergio built a legacy in Sacramento through a series of beloved local businesses that he co-owned and operated with his family. These included Greenhaven Bakery, River City Bakery, Bean Heads, Fluid Espresso Bar, and Barrio—each one reflecting his creativity and dedication to bringing people together over great pastries, coffee and warm conversation. His ventures were more than just businesses; they were gathering places that reflected his inclusive spirit and love for community.
Sergio was known for his extraordinary intelligence and sharp wit. He had an innate ability to connect with anyone—regardless of background or circumstance—and was always ready to lend a hand to those in need. Whether striking up a conversation with a stranger or offering support during difficult times, he embodied compassion and authenticity.
Outside of work, Sergio found joy in music of all genres particularly classical and 60's-90's rock; holding the Beatles and the Rolling Stones at the top. He was a virtual encyclopedia for music and could identify a song in 2 seconds. Sergio loved movies and was known to quote a movie in the right moment; Lawrence of Arabia and Casablanca were favorites but he loved watching Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings with his family. He was passionate about bicycling and running throughout his life—activities that mirrored his energetic approach to life. He also had an insatiable appetite for knowledge and could often be found immersed in discussions about global affairs, historical events, cars, and pretty much anything. He also loved traveling, eating great food and drinking wine and beer.
("Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she walks into mine" -Rick Blaine, Casablanca
He often quoted to his wife, Melissa because they first met at his coffee shop in downtown.)
He faced significant health challenges throughout his life, including type 1 diabetes and cancer. Yet he met each battle with remarkable strength and determination—a testament to his enduring spirit.
Sergio loved life with a passion and was desperately saddened that he simply didn't have enough time to finish things that he was working on and start future projects.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Melissa Lyn Allen; his daughter, Sofía Izel Barrios-Allen; his granddaughter, Poppy Inéz Barrios-Allen; his sister, Diana Barrios; his brothers Javier Barrios and Fernando Barrios; his nieces, Deanna Brennan, Anna and Isabel Barrios, and Ava and Elise Barrios. He was preceded in death by his brother Miguel Barrios and parents Antonia and Santiago Barrios.
Sergio Barrios-Román leaves behind a legacy of kindness, courage, intellect, and connection. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire acts of generosity and understanding in the world he so deeply cherished. A Celebration of Life will be held on March 8, 2026, from 02:00 PM to 04:30 PM at Sierra Center 2 2791 24th Street. Garden Room by invitation.
Sergio pursued his education at the prestigious Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM) before continuing his academic journey at the University of California, Davis. His intellectual curiosity was boundless—he had a deep passion for world history and politics and was known for engaging in thoughtful conversations with people from all walks of life.
A dynamic entrepreneur, Sergio built a legacy in Sacramento through a series of beloved local businesses that he co-owned and operated with his family. These included Greenhaven Bakery, River City Bakery, Bean Heads, Fluid Espresso Bar, and Barrio—each one reflecting his creativity and dedication to bringing people together over great pastries, coffee and warm conversation. His ventures were more than just businesses; they were gathering places that reflected his inclusive spirit and love for community.
Sergio was known for his extraordinary intelligence and sharp wit. He had an innate ability to connect with anyone—regardless of background or circumstance—and was always ready to lend a hand to those in need. Whether striking up a conversation with a stranger or offering support during difficult times, he embodied compassion and authenticity.
Outside of work, Sergio found joy in music of all genres particularly classical and 60's-90's rock; holding the Beatles and the Rolling Stones at the top. He was a virtual encyclopedia for music and could identify a song in 2 seconds. Sergio loved movies and was known to quote a movie in the right moment; Lawrence of Arabia and Casablanca were favorites but he loved watching Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings with his family. He was passionate about bicycling and running throughout his life—activities that mirrored his energetic approach to life. He also had an insatiable appetite for knowledge and could often be found immersed in discussions about global affairs, historical events, cars, and pretty much anything. He also loved traveling, eating great food and drinking wine and beer.
("Of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she walks into mine" -Rick Blaine, Casablanca
He often quoted to his wife, Melissa because they first met at his coffee shop in downtown.)
He faced significant health challenges throughout his life, including type 1 diabetes and cancer. Yet he met each battle with remarkable strength and determination—a testament to his enduring spirit.
Sergio loved life with a passion and was desperately saddened that he simply didn't have enough time to finish things that he was working on and start future projects.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Melissa Lyn Allen; his daughter, Sofía Izel Barrios-Allen; his granddaughter, Poppy Inéz Barrios-Allen; his sister, Diana Barrios; his brothers Javier Barrios and Fernando Barrios; his nieces, Deanna Brennan, Anna and Isabel Barrios, and Ava and Elise Barrios. He was preceded in death by his brother Miguel Barrios and parents Antonia and Santiago Barrios.
Sergio Barrios-Román leaves behind a legacy of kindness, courage, intellect, and connection. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire acts of generosity and understanding in the world he so deeply cherished. A Celebration of Life will be held on March 8, 2026, from 02:00 PM to 04:30 PM at Sierra Center 2 2791 24th Street. Garden Room by invitation.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Sergio Barrios-Román, please visit our flower store.
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