Salvador Casillas “Chava” was born December 2, 1957 in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico in a small town of La Colonia de Industria. He passed away April 13, 2014 in Los Angeles, California. At the age of 13 years old, he and his brother, Carlos, left Guadalajara by bus to join their mother, Cristina, grandmother, Guadalupe and sister, Martha.
He grew up in East Los Angeles and attended Hollenbeck Jr. High School and Roosevelt High graduating in 1975.
Chava joined a car club, Amigos East LA in 1979 and was seen frequently cruising happily through the streets, mainly Brooklyn Avenue in his beautiful hydraulic Monte Carlo. He married his first wife, Rosa and had their first daughter, Arlene. After a few years, he met his second and present wife, Julie and their son, Brian was born.
He played soccer with a passion for a few years and was always the star “goalie” for their team “Guadalajara”. It was always a fun weekend for him playing with family and teaching his son and nephews the tricks of the game. He also enjoyed playing a good game of cards and was very lucky at it.
Boxing matches were a “must” at Chava’s house. If there was a match, you knew where to go. He was always eager to hold the “quinela” to add an extra suspense to each round of the fight. He enjoyed hosting carnes asadas for his family and friends. It was a treat watching him dance…he could wiggle and move those shoulders and knees.
In 2008, his life took a devastating turn where he lost most of his movement to his body due to a rare but serious illness that attacked his spinal cord and left him confined to a wheelchair. But his spirit was never taken from him…he was still the same, loving, caring and funny Chava we all knew and loved. He spent his days sitting in his garage watching the Lakers… then became a big fan of the Clippers and always welcomed visits from family and friends to join him. He especially loved his weekly visits from his brother Carlos and sister Martha.
Chava is survived by his wife, Julie. Daughter, Arlene (Charlie). Son, Brian.
Brother, Carlos (Rosie) Sister, Martha (Alberto). His nieces and nephews, Patty, Albert, Kevin, Alex, Karina and Andres, and step-son Edwin. Along with numerous cousins, and many long time dear friends.
He will truly be missed by all of us.. and his spirit and love for life will live with us forever.
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