Andres Prieto

beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, was born on May 26, 1941, in Los Angeles, California, and passed away peacefully in Moreno Valley, California on August 31, 2025.

The son of Andres Prieto Sr. and Carmen Carmona Prieto, Andres grew up surrounded by a loving family of three brothers and three sisters. He attended St. Aloysius Catholic School and later graduated from St. Anthony’s Catholic High School.

On August 27, 1960, Andres married the love of his life, Margarita Partida, after a courtship that began when they were just 12 years old. Together they shared 65 years of marriage and raised three daughters: Lisa, Kristina, and Lena.

In 1979, Andres and Margarita moved to a rural area of Moreno Valley, California, where they purchased 5.5 acres to start a small family ranch. Andres taught his daughters how to raise horses, pigs, a cow, and several dogs. More than caring for animals, he instilled in his girls the value of a strong work ethic. He encouraged them to participate in building the horse corrals and pig pens themselves — life lessons that became a lasting testament to his dedication as a father.

Andres built a long and respected career as a truck driver, working with Crescent Truck Lines and proudly serving as a member of the Teamsters. He was recognized many times for his remarkable safety record, receiving multiple awards for continuous years of “No Accidents.” His strong work ethic and commitment to excellence set an example for all who knew him.

Beyond his career, Andres lived life with passion and energy. In the 1980s and 1990s, he became a devoted racquetball player and went on to serve as Director and Chief of The Raqueteros. He organized popular racquetball doubles tournaments in Rosarito Beach twice a year, events that brought friends and competitors together in spirited play and community. Even today, participants fondly recall those tournaments as highlights in their lives.

Family was always at the center of Andres’s life. He and Margarita hosted countless family events and celebrations at the ranch, where memories were made over horse and pony rides, volleyball, horseshoes, and delicious BBQ with all the fixings. What Andres loved most, though, was sitting on the porch of his shed with a cold beer in hand, enjoying the company of family and friends.

Service was also at the heart of Andres’s life. He volunteered for the Girl Scouts of America and the Boys Club of America, and he gave his time through the Catholic Church to support American Indian communities in Mexico and Arizona. His generosity of spirit touched countless lives.

Andres is survived by his devoted wife, Margarita; his three daughters, Lisa, Kristina (Gerald), and Lena; his son-in-law, Gerald Zaragoza; his two grandsons, Bradon Prieto and Gerald Zaragoza Jr. (Jessica Zaragoza); his great-grandson, Zachary Zaragoza; and his only living sibling, Raul “Rolly” Prieto. He will also be deeply missed by his extended family, friends, and all who were fortunate to know him.

Andres will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his tireless work ethic, his faith, and his gift for bringing people together through sport, friendship, and laughter.

The family of Andres Prieto wishes to express their deepest gratitude for the many prayers, acts of kindness, and expressions of sympathy shown during this difficult time. Your love and support are a great comfort and blessing to us.