It is with profound sadness we share the passing of the wittiest, most charming, hard-working and loving man, Gustavo Arellano, left us Sunday, September 8, 2024 at the age of 89. Gustavo was born on December 16, 1934, in Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico and was a longtime resident of El Paso, TX. He was a U.S Army Veteran, worked in the textile industry and, together with his wife of 65 years, raised six children.
He enjoyed spending time camping with family and deer hunting with his brothers-in-law and nephews. You could always find him in his tool shed, always working with his hands; affectionately we named him Mr. Fix-it. He was a man of immense humor, always smiling and joking. There was never a dull moment in his company. He had a gift of making everyone that crossed his path feel special and welcomed.
As one of his passions was driving, he was always happy to chauffer his entire family around town always looking for the “shortcut” routes. He was an avid reader, who frequented the public libraries and always punctual in returning books to avoid any late fees. Desserts and ice cream satisfied his sweet tooth and he was sure to keep candy and chocolates available to share with his grandchildren.
His “chicharrones” were the best and he loved making them with his sons and grandsons by his side. He carried his “navajita” everywhere and could open or sharpen anything in seconds. Gustavo was a die-hard Atlanta Braves fan and realized his dream of seeing them play at Chase Field in Phoenix.
His love for musical Trios inspired him to be a professional guitarist all his life. However, he had to settle for playing air guitar and composing unique songs for his grandkids.
Gustavo was preceded in death by his parents, Matilde and Juanita Arellano, and siblings, Maria Aguilar, Maria de Jesus Arellano, Guadalupe Ornelas, Lucia Arellano, Celia Estrada, Martha Gallegos, Manuel Arellano, and Isabel Toledo.
He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Maria (Nini) Arellano and survived by his children: Sandra (Alfredo) Barraza, Cecilia (Joe) Davila, Juanita (Sergio) Galaviz, Jose Gustavo (Monica) Arellano, Lorena (Roberto) Olmos, and Alberto (Melissa) Arellano. He is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, his nieces, nephews, and many beloved relatives and friends.
Gustavo will be laid to rest on Monday, December 16, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Fort Bliss National Cemetery with military honors.
Our heartfelt thanks to his providers Magda, Mari, Irene, and Socorro from Accent Care home health. Although he is gone, his memory will live forever in our hearts.
Gustavo "Tavo" will be missed by all who knew him.
