Raul “Red” Fierro

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Raul Fierro, a devoted father, proud veteran, and faithful man of God, who departed this life peacefully on February 16, 2025, at the age of 92.

Raul was born and raised in Santa Barbara, California. Orphaned at birth, he was adopted and lovingly raised by his aunt and uncle — a beginning that shaped the compassionate, selfless man he would become. He learned early on the value of love, faith, and perseverance, and lived each day with those guiding principles.

As a young boy he worked hard as a street corner shoe shiner on lower State Street. His main clientele were servicemen who docked at the Santa Barbara Harbor. He was also a newspaper delivery boy crying out “Extra, Extra, read all about it!” He was proud to help contribute to the family household income with his hard earned cash. This learned trait followed him throughout his adult years and he grew to be a big success in the eyes of his family and all who knew him.

At just 17, Raul enlisted in the United States Air Force, beginning a lifetime of service, discipline, and quiet pride in his country. He was a proud veteran who never sought recognition but wore his service with honor and humility.

He attended Lincoln Elementary School, Santa Barbara Junior High School and Santa Barbara High School. He left High School in the bottom half of his junior year to join the United States Air Force. He served four years, at which time he was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska and was honorably discharged in December of 1954.

Soon after his departure from the service he married his elementary school sweetheart, Carmen Perez, with whom he spent the next 65 years growing deeper in love and understanding. They exemplified and fashioned the true meaning of love!

Raul was a dedicated father, grandfather, great grandfather and Godfather. He was a loyal man, and a friend whose presence brought warmth and ease to any room. His laughter was infectious, his work ethic unmatched, and his love for his family truly limitless.

He is survived by his daughter, Victoria Pointer, and his son, David Fierro, who will carry forward his memory with pride and love. His seven grandchildren are Brian Pointer (Dalen), Kevin Pointer (Stewart Hoelsher), Shannon Sadecki (Ian) Steven Fierro (Miranda), Jaclyn Fierro, Quinn Fierro (Julia), and Chase Fierro. He has five great grandchildren, from Brian and Dalen (Luke, Abe, and Stevie) Shannon and Ian (Logan), Steven and Miranda (Ellory and Mateo).

A funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of Sorrows in Santa Barbara on May 23, 2025 At 9:30 a Rosary will be said for the repose of his soul, followed by a funeral Mass at 10:00. Immediately following will be the interment at Calvary Cemetery.

His legacy lives on in the lives he touched — a quiet, strong, and loving man who never asked for praise, only the chance to care and love others.