Alberto "El Chaparro" Contreras Ortiz

1954-2025

With deep sorrow and loving memory, we announce the passing of Alberto “El Chaparro” Contreras Ortiz, who departed this life in June 2025, leaving behind a legacy marked by strength, joy, and resilience.

Born in Aguascalientes, Mexico and raised in Nayarit, Alberto came from humble beginnings. He was a hardworking campesino who toiled in the cane fields, but his skills and ambition extended beyond the land—he was also a talented albañil (mason), building not just homes, but a future for himself and his family.

Later in life, Alberto journeyed to the United States, where he eventually became a resident. He spent many years working in Ojai, California, known for his dedication and strong work ethic. After returning to Mexico briefly, he met the love of his life. Together, they returned to the United States, where Alberto fulfilled one of his greatest dreams: to raise a family and have his children born in this country of opportunity.

Known affectionately as El Chaparro, Alberto was a man of great presence and unforgettable charm. He loved to dance—whether alone or with his partner, he was always the first on the dance floor and often the last to leave. He was deeply passionate about music, curating an impressive collection of cassettes and LPs that reflected his classic taste and vibrant soul.

Alberto took pride in his appearance. His wardrobe was impeccably pressed and perfectly matched, fitting the well-maintained physique he worked hard to preserve. He brought this same care and energy to his family life, where he found his greatest joy—in laughter, food, music, and time spent with those he loved.

To know Alberto was to experience a man of deep contradictions and deeper love. He battled with his own inner struggles, including mental illness, which shaped much of his journey. But through both his flaws and his strengths, he gave his entire being—body, mind, and soul—to those around him. He was perfectly imperfect, a man of his word, a man of Christ, and above all, a man of love.

He is survived by his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, extended family, and many friends whose lives he touched with his humor, character, and passion.

His essence lives on—in the way we laugh, love, and continue dancing even when the music changes.

Rest in peace, Chaparro. You gave us everything.

We carry you in our hearts always.

Estoy Libre

No lloren por mí, que ahora estoy libre.

Estoy siguiendo el sendero que Dios me dispuso. Yo agarré su mano cuando lo oí llamarme. Voltié mi espalda y lo dejé todo.

No me pude quedar ni un día más, para reír, amar, trabajar o jugar. Cosas que se dejaron sin hacer, deben quedarse así, Yo encontré paz al cerrar el día.

Si mi partida les ha dejado un hueco, entonces llénenlo con gozo, con una sonrisa o un beso. Estas cosas las voy a extrañar.

No se mantengan con pesar. Yo les deseo un nuevo amanecer. Mi vida fue llena y la saborié bastante. Buenos amigos y buenos tiempos.

Es posible que mi tiempo aquí haya sido breve, no lo hagan más largo con pesar. Levanten sus corazones y que la paz esté con ustedes, Dios me quiere ahora y me ha puesto libre.

A visitation / velorio for El Chaparro will be held Friday, July 11, 2025 from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at Pierce Brothers Valhalla, 10621 Victory Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91606. A funeral liturgy / misa will occur Saturday, July 12, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 10621 Victory Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91606. A graveside service / sepelio will occur Saturday, July 12, 2025 from 11:30 AM to 12:00 PM at Pierce Brothers Valhalla Memorial Park and Mortuary, 10621 Victory Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 91606.