Aurelio Virrey Reyes

Aurelio Virrey Reyes, 94, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 5, 2025, in his home with family present, in Bakersfield, California. He was born on July 27, 1931, in Durango Mexico, one of seven sons and three daughters born to Lino and Enriqueta (Virrey) Reyes.

A father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Aurelio was loved by his family, his extended family, and his many friends. He is survived by his children, Sofia, Angelina, Lino (Devora Acosta) Reyes, all of Bakersfield, California. He is also survived by his grandchild, Heather Noel (David) Schmidt, and his great-grandchild, Hazel Rae Schmidt, of Yuma, Arizona. He is survived by one sister, Isidra Reyes Virrey, residing in Mexico. He was preceded in death by his beloved youngest child, Irene Reyes, as well as his parents and eight siblings.

“All I ever wanted was a family”, is what Aurelio said during his last week of life. Orphaned at a young age, Aurelio immigrated from Mexico to Bakersfield, California in his twenties, met and married Dolores Castaneda, and became the rock and anchor for his children and grandchild. Aurelio was blessed to know his great-grandchild, her strong spirit, her laughter and sweet singing. His love of family included his many nephews and nieces who often visited their beloved tio Aurelio. Aurelio was a father/grandfather-figure to several people in this life. He got the family he always wanted.

Aurelio read the newspaper daily and could speak with informed opinions on various topics with people from all walks of life, including his donut shop buddies, who met for many years in the early morning hours at Jess’s Donut Shop. He knew the roads and areas in California like the back of his hand having worked for Southern Pacific Railroad for 33 years. He taught his children how to work hard and to value actions, and to live a life that reflected a belief in God, by how you respected yourself and treated others.

Those who knew Aurelio well, knew his sense of humor and strong opinions. He taught his children how to have their own opinions, even if that meant having debates about issues where he was “right” and you were not. We will miss his stories, his expressions, strong voice, sparkling baby-blue eyes and hearty laughter. We will miss his steady presence and the fierce love of his protective nature.

Services will be held at Grace Assembly of God church located at 2800 Larson Lane, Bakersfield, CA on September 20, 2025 at 9:30 AM, the cemetery burial service will follow immediately and will be held at Hillcrest Memorial Park located at 9101 Kern Canyon Road, Bakersfield CA, 93306. Reception at Grace Assembly of God church at 12 PM, following the burial.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Olga Quinones, and Maria Sepulveda, who were caregivers to him in the last years of his life. Their attentiveness, respect and care for our dad/Tata will always be remembered.