Fernando Chavez Arias

Fernando Chavez Arias, age 59, of Chino Hills, California, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, August 15, 2025, at his home. He was born on November 3, 1965, in Jalisco, Mexico. At the age of eight, he moved with his family to the United States, where he grew up surrounded by his brothers and sisters.

Fernando was a proud father to Christopher Arias, Christine Arias, Zoe Arias, and Irene Guevara. He was also grandfather to five grandchildren who brought him great joy.

Fernando had an extraordinary talent with his hands and his mind—mechanical, engineering, and electrical. From fixing cars to plumbing, flooring, and air conditioning, there was little he couldn’t repair. He even extended his own home by building an extra room, a testament to his skill and determination. Friends and family admired not only his ability to fix anything, but the pride he took in doing excellent work. He was the one people turned to when something broke, and he never let them down.

Beyond his skills, Fernando gave of himself generously. He opened his home to family, cared for nieces and nephews as if they were his own, and often lent money to those in need—always keeping a “list” of IOUs, retold with his trademark humor and grin.

Fernando loved the outdoors and cherished time spent fishing, camping, and hunting, especially when surrounded by friends and family. He also had a green thumb, tending to cactus, chili plants, and a plum tree that flourished under his care. At home, he delighted in cooking and sharing meals, especially birria, aguachiles, ceviche, and, of course, salsa.

Known for his quick wit and perfectly timed teasing, Fernando could make anyone laugh. Though serious and impatient at times, he had a way of lifting spirits and finding humor in ordinary moments.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin Arias and Carmen Arias, and his siblings Javier Arias and Ernestina Soto.

He is survived by his children, his brothers Eduardo, Felipe, and Benjamin Arias, his sisters Lupe Arias, Emma Arias, and Carmen Magaña, and many nieces and nephews.

A viewing will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 4:30 to 8:00 PM at Pierce Brothers Crestlawn Mortuary, 11500 Arlington Ave., Riverside, CA 92505. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, and celebrate Fernando’s life.

Fernando’s legacy is one of hard work, generosity, and resilience. The lessons he passed down—and the countless stories he left behind—will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.