"Big" Juan Reyes

Never in a million years would I think I would be writing this about someone I loved so dearly. “Big” Juan Reyes was bigger than life, quite literally. Like a warrior in battle, Juan fought numerous health issues for the past six years and succumbed to his battle on November 14th. As many of you, my friendship with Juan ran deep. He was a constant in my life and so many of his friend's lives. In his lifelong friendships with “The Boys,” he created a cherished extended family that stood by him until the end. The gentlest of giants and inherently loyal. Juan was the guy that would always be there for you. He was always happy to see you and gave the biggest bear hugs. Once you became Juan’s friend, you were friends for life. His dedication for his friends was incredible but his enormous love for his family even stronger. Juan and Ashley were about to celebrate their 18 wedding anniversary and have been together over 25 years. He was so incredibly proud of his 3 beautiful children Cody, Nichaela, and Kate. He was a grandpa to two adorable grandsons, Graham & Waylon. He flourished as a family man. He just beamed with pride, talking about and watching his kids grow up. All that time working for the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Springs with so many kids, helping them navigate their youth, shaping their lives, and providing unconditional support & love directed him into the person he became.

Due to Juan’s poor health, he could never get life insurance. He was in the hospital many times, many being 6-month stints and raising mounting medical bills. This is our chance to step up, be there for “Big” Juan as he was there for us and help his children live the life he wanted. Any support you can give would go a long way to make that happen.