“Chico” Theodore Arellano was born February 17, 1936 to the late Frank Arellano and Lupe Cervantez Gavino in Turlane, CA. He passed from this life on November 4, 2018 at the age of 82, at home in Kensett, AR with his wife of 53 years, Carolyn Arellano by his side. Chico was preceded in death by his Dad, that raised him, Manuel Gavino, siblings Martin and Antonio Arellano, son Stephen Arellano, Brother-in-law Stan Tucker, Son-in-law Dave Chesser, and Nephew Doug Tucker.

Chico joined the Marines after graduation and discharged as Sergeant 1st Class then joined Air Force, discharged as Airman 1st Class serving 9 years 9 months and 3 days. 2 years being served foreign and/or overseas. This led to his career in auto mechanics, body shop work with Jess Smith, and working at Heathscott and Sons in Kensett. His last job was at White County Road Department until his motorcycle accident in 1988. Chico loved all sports and excelled in the ones he played, a majority of his friends came from countless softball games at Baker’s Field and everywhere else , ASA umpiring, all his bowling events, and shooting pool at the American Legion. There was a time everyone in Kensett knew Chico. He loved his motorcycle rides to California to see his Mom and Dad with his buddy and his rides with Carolyn in Arkansas with the Razorback Riders.

Cherishing his memory in this life are siblings: Andy (Tonce) Gavino, Lucy Tucker, Phyllis (Marc) Feiber, Lupe (Rebecca) Gavino, and Martha Gavino all of CA, children Frank Arellano, Monique Solorzano of Redding, CA, Phyllis Arellano of Nashville, TN, Tonce (Chris) Stafford of McRae, AR, Jessica (Philip) Snelson of Searcy, AR, Alicia (Duane) Turner of Crab Orchard, KY, Alyssa (Zach) Burns of Searcy, AR, Tiffany Arellano of Kensett, AR. Grandchildren: Frank and Lisa Arellano, Esperanza Ruvalcuba, Maria Solorzano, Sierra and Marlisa Prestidge, Skyler (Katlyn) Stafford, Blythe Ann (boyfriend Chris), Ayreona, Dakota (girlfriend Hailey), and Cara Lynn Snelson, Wendye Gowan Phelps (boyfriend Jake), Kimberly (Craig) Meers, Lexi, Jasmine, Layla, Cheyenne, Cole (Bubby), and Jett. 23 great grandchildren and 10 great great grandchildren.

He never had a favorite but he always had a helping hand outside tinkering and yard work. Chico was truly loved, proven by the countless number of friends and family all around sending prayers, love and thoughts when he had his strokes, and his time at home in Arkansas Hospice. Very special thank you goes out to our fabulous CNA Rena, the compassion of Erika and all the nurses, staff and Ron (veteran support) at the Searcy office of AR Hospice.