Fernando Vela

Fernando Vela, Beloved Husband, Father, Brother and Grandfather of Riverside, CA passed away at 78 on Friday, December 13th, 2024, at home surrounded by family. "My" father was born on May 30, 1946, and grew up in Riverside California with his mother and father along with his 7 brothers and 4 sisters.
Married to the love of his life Celia Vela for 57 years, he was the most amazing, loving and caring, husband, father and brother.
He held a cosmetology license from RCC before starting a career of over 40 years in flooring by obtaining a contractor's license and later opened a business with his broth- ers.
However his greatest achievement and joy if you asked him are his 4 daughters, Sheila Varela, Linda Vela, Isabel Vela and Estella Vela-Briney. To us he was beyond the best Father and Grandfather of 12 grandchildren and 27 great grandchildren. Our fa- ther was an amazing hardworking Man, who loved the Lord, his life and his family. He laughed and played with vigor. Just ask any of his grandchildren or great-grandchildren about "the claw".
When "my" father gave his heart to the Lord he shared his faith with all his family and friends and never missed an opportunity to share with strangers. He will forever be OUR Hero and The Wings in which will hold us up.
Services will be held at Preston's & Simons Mortuary on January 2, 2025, start time is 10:00am. Viewing will take place between 10-11:00am actual chapel service will be at 11:30am burial to be held at Olivewood Memorial Park at 1:00pm with Celebration of Life to follow