Efren “Guero” Arroyo
Efren “Guero” Arroyo, 35, passed away suddenly Monday October 17, 2016, peacefully surrounded by family. He is survived by his parents Martin and Evelia Arroyo, Sister Olivia (Joey) Graham, brother’s Manuel (Sara) Arroyo, Martin Jr. “HaHa” (Caroline) Arroyo, nieces and nephews, Analisa , Jonathan, Christopher, Joshua, Samara, Arianna, his dog Lucy , and many Tios, Tias y primos.
Efren was born in Santa Barbara, California on July 19, 1981 with some rare disabilities. Upon his birth, doctors only gave him 6 months to live, but through the love and nurture of family he outlived and surpassed any medical expectations to live a joyful and spirited life. He attended local schools and programs and has worked many jobs in the SB area.
Efren was well known throughout the SB community and inspired all who had the privilege to know him through his loving, caring spirit and personality he showed on a daily basis. He did not let his disabilities stop him from enjoying life to his full potential. Although he did not have speech, he always found a way to communicate and tell us what he wanted. He was independent and found ways to explore and travel throughout the area by hitching a ride or using the local transportation system. He had a passion for sports and enjoyed watching the local sports scene and loved to read the local sports page to find out who is playing. He participated in the special Olympics and was a huge fan of the Los Angeles Lakers. Efren was a special intelligent person who lived an amazing life.
Quotes from his siblings:
Olivia- “My dearest little brother, you had the most amazing love for people. The world would be a better place if we all had the kind loving heart that you did. Until we meet again, Love your sister.”
JR- “My baby brother always taught me to look at the positives in life. He was truly my life coach. He will forever be in my heart. Until we meet again. Love your, “HAHA””
Manuel- “To have lived life through your eyes for one day is more than I could ever do in a lifetime. You saw every day as a gift and you made the most of it. You are and will always be our little Superman”
The family would like to thank the SB community for their kindness, love and compassion you showed to our son throughout his life. You allowed him to live an independent lifestyle that brought him joy and laughter for which we are forever grateful.
Efren was so dearly loved by all his family and friends. He was taken to soon, and will be forever missed but never forgotten. Heaven has gained an angel. We Love You Efren.
Services to be held:
Friday October 21, 2016 a viewing will be held from 1 to 5pm at Welch-Ryce-Haider Funeral Chapel 15 E. Sola Street with a Rosary 7pm at Our Lady of Sorrows Church 21 East Sola Street, Santa Barbara.
Saturday October 22, 2016 a mass will be held 11am at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish 227 N. Nopal Street with a burial to follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery 199 N. Hope Ave.
A Reception will follow the burial at Tucker’s Grove Park Area 1, 805 San Antonio Creek Rd, Goleta, CA.