Cecil Abeyta Jr.

On Wednesday, December 22, 2021, the Abeyta family lost their hero, Cecil Abeyta Jr., after several months of declining health. The world has lost an extraordinary brother, husband, father, grandfather, friend, and leader.

On September 29, 1940, in Greeley, CO, Cecil Abeyta Jr. was born to Cecil Abeyta Sr. and Maude Abeyta. He was one of four siblings, now survived by his loving sister, Cindy Bear. Cecil worked on his family’s farm at an early age. Due to his vast strength and determination for hard work, Cecil quickly became an all-state athlete in Track and Field for Central High School in Fresno, CA and competed in the West Coast Relays at the California State Regionals.

Despite the many athletic college scholarships he was offered, Cecil did the most selfless thing a man can do for his country and enlisted in the United States Navy. Advancing quickly in rank to E-6 Petty Officer First Class, Cecil courageously served at the captain’s side on the Navy’s vessels, where he was detached from the destroyers to transport raiding parties of US troops on small boats to Vietnam shores, while under fire.

Upon completing his valiant acts of service, and being honorably discharged, he then returned safely home and married his sweetheart of 62 years, Beatrice Abeyta. Together they created a wonderful family that would only continue to grow.

Cecil and Bea raised their three sons: Cecil Abeyta III, Brian Abeyta, and Aaron Abeyta. Following, he was blessed with his grandchildren: Stephanie Abeyta, Vivian Abeyta, Lilly Abeyta and Jake Johnston; as well as his daughter-in-law’s: Tonya Johnston, Jennifer Abeyta, and Yvonne Abeyta. All of which Cecil will be lovingly survived by.

Cecil loved to learn and expanded his profound knowledge to continuously develop his skills. He earned numerous certifications and held many titles such as Journeyman Electrician, Welder, Crane Operator, Gas Turban Power Generation, and Wastewater Management, plus several more. Cecil dedicated 15 years of service to Nevada Power (NV Energy) and went on to perform a vital role in the grand opening of Summerlin Hospital Medical Center in 1997, as one of their best Facility Engineers for well over 16 years.

Cecil was a man amongst men and wore many hats, unceasingly doing what it took to ensure his family was more than taken care of. Cecil truly gave his all to his family. He was not only our father, but a dad to many of our friends and family members.

Cecil was very big on keeping the family together and celebrating life –occasionally with a cigar at hand. He was legendary for his barbecues and pool parties, ensuring his family was always well fed and that nobody left his table hungry. One of his biggest enjoyments was watching his family at play –whether it be spending countless days at Disneyland, splashing in the ocean at the beach, riding bikes at the park, or simply gathering around the television to watch football every Sunday.

Cecil truly put his heart and soul into everything he did, and unapologetically lived life to the fullest. Cecil set the mold as a wonderful husband and loving father.

He will continue to be loved by all, and a father to many.

Rest in Peace Pop.