Cesar Banuelos

Cesar Noel Banuelos, a cherished husband, father, brother, and friend, passed away at the age of 67 on October 4, 2025, in Clearwater, Florida, after a courageous battle with progressive lung disease. He was born on May 25, 1958, in Xalapa Veracruz, Mexico, and brought warmth and kindness into the lives of everyone he knew.
Cesar was a devoted family man who deeply loved his wife, Kathleen, and their children, Ashley (Jabbar) Buggs-Graham, Eric (Ashley) Banuelos, and Melissa (Anthony) Irilli. He cherished his granddaughters Kylie, Keira, and Isla, and was joyfully anticipating the arrival of his first grandson, Owen. He was a beloved brother to Tony Banuelos and a respected brother-in-law to Christine Ghusen and her husband Elmer Rodriguez, his mother-in-law, Alice Dunbar, along with his aunt and uncle, Carol and Edward Carlough, and numerous nieces and nephews that will miss his generous spirit and infectious smile. Cesar was preceded in death by his mother, Dinah Montano Garcia, and his brother, Abi Banuelos, who no doubt welcomed him with open arms.
Cesar's career as an auto technician was marked by a passion for cars and a dedication to his craft. He took immense pride in his ability to diagnose and repair, ensuring that every vehicle he worked on was returned to its owner in peak condition. His colleagues respected him, and his customers trusted him for his honest work.
A man of faith, Cesar lived his life as a testament to Christian values, practicing kindness, compassion, and love in his daily actions. He was always ready to lend a hand or offer a word of support.
Cesar's love for life was evident in his many interests. An avid football fan, he rarely missed a Bucs game and often shared this passion with his friends and family. His adventurous spirit led him to travel, especially to the mountains, which he regarded as a place of serenity and beauty. Cesar's joy was most visible when he was spending time with his children and grandchildren or behind the wheel of his jeep with his loyal dog Kylo by his side. These simple pleasures were the backdrop to a life that was lived fully and with intention.
In reflecting on Cesar's life and our precious memories we know this: "What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; All that we love deeply becomes a part of us." Cesar will always be a part of us and live in our hearts forever. Cesar's zest for life, his love for his family, and his capacity for friendship have become an indelible part of all who know him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and the countless memories shared with those he held dear.
As we say goodbye to Cesar, we celebrate a life well-lived, a journey marked by joy, resilience, strength, and an unending capacity to give. May he rest in peace, and may his spirit continue to guide and inspire us all.