On the morning of January 3rd, 2026, I received the heartbreaking news that my father had passed away. Although we lived apart and our relationship was complicated, his journey and the impact he had on those around him are deeply important to me. My father was born in the humble town of Tangamandapio, Mexico, and later moved to the United States, where he built a new life in Washington and Oregon. It was there that he met my mother and started a family, though we were separated when I was just three years old. We reconnected when I turned thirteen, and while our communication was on and off, he remained a part of my life in meaningful ways.

Now, as my family and I face the difficult task of saying goodbye, our wish is to honor his memory in the way he deserves. We are bringing him back to Mexico because his siblings and mother are there, and it is important for him to rest among his loved ones. The funds raised will go directly to supporting my father's side of the family in Tangamandapio, helping to cover the costs of his funeral and memorial service. Additionally, we need assistance with the travel expenses required to transport my father from Merced, California, back to his hometown in Mexico, as well as for my mother and me to attend the services and say our final goodbyes.

I don’t have many recent photos of my father, so the images I’ve shared are from my early childhood with him. These are precious memories that mean a lot to me, and I hope they help convey the love and connection we shared.

On behalf of my father's family, I am reaching out to ask for help. Any donation or even sharing this story would mean so much to us during this difficult time. Thank you for your kindness and support, it truly makes a difference.