Fidel Ernest Barrios

Fidel Ernest Barrios went home to be with the Lord in the early morning hours of Good Friday, March 29, 2024 at his son’s home in Downey, California. He was surrounded by his family as he slipped peacefully away from this Earth at the age of 87. Fidel grew up and went to school in Watts, California, and attended 102nd Street School and Jordan High School. 

On November 20, 1954 at the age of 17, Fidel married Margaret Veronica Gonzales in Ensenada, Mexico. They were married for 69 years. Fidel lived in the L.A. area all of his life, most recently in Downey and Bellflower. He worked for over 44 years and supported his wife and children until he retired at age 62. He continued to help raise his grandchildren, providing care, rides, and warm meals and was more than happy to do so.      

Fidel was a fun-loving person with an irreverent sense of humor. He was always upbeat and positive, and was a man of great faith and great love for his family. He had enormous pride and joy in and for his loved ones, and his favorite thing to do was spend time with them. He did an incredible job caring for his wife Margaret until the very end. 

Fidel enjoyed visiting casinos and playing the penny slots. He liked guns and hunting, and always had a collection of way too many pens and hats. He liked music and dancing and he loved to eat, especially tacos and menudo, and would never say no to a free hot dog. 

Fidel was a believer who loved the Lord and was a member of several Christian churches throughout his lifetime. He looked forward to seeing his mother and sons in Heaven. Fidel is survived by his wife Margaret and their children Lupe, Alison, and Derek. Two of his sons, Leonard and Glen, went to be with the Lord before him. Fidel and Margaret had 5 children, 14 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild.