Mike Rios

Miguel Rios was born on May 8, 1935, in Anaheim, California, as the second son of Natividad and Isabel Aguirre Rios. His family affectionately called him Mike, a name he carried throughout most of his life. Mike attended Fremont Junior High and Anaheim High School. At the age of seventeen, he enlisted in the United States Air Force to serve during the Korean War. During a leave from service, Mike met and fell in love with Mary Ellen Meza. While he was stationed overseas, they exchanged letters. Upon his return, they eloped on April 25, 1954, in Quartzsite, Arizona.

Mike and Mary had five children together: Lorraine, Valerie, Freddie, Nadine, and Michael. They bought their first home in Anaheim before moving to Norco in 1972. Mike was a proud member of the California Ironworkers Local 433 from 1962 until his retirement in 1997. Over the years, he worked his way up from ironworker to foreman, eventually becoming a superintendent. Mike found great joy in mentoring young apprentices, helping them become skilled journeymen. Many of his family members followed in his footsteps, including his two sons, son-in-law, nephews, grandsons, and grandson-in-law.

In retirement, Mike cherished time spent with his wife Mary, their children, and grandchildren. The couple enjoyed 63 years of marriage until Mary’s passing on December 5, 2017. Afterward, Mike found comfort in visiting her at the cemetery, a practice he enjoyed sharing with his family. Mike passed away at the age of 89, surrounded by his loved ones, on March 13, 2025. He is survived by his children Lorraine Zamora, Valerie Arguelles, Nadine Rios, and Michael Rios, along with 14 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

Mike was a kind, generous man who was dearly loved by many. He had a passion for his family, music, and classic cars. His family finds comfort in knowing they will one day be reunited with him in heaven. Mike Rios will be deeply missed.