Remembering Arturo O. Valencia: A Life of Love and Dedication

Arturo O. Valencia, affectionately known as “Art,” passed away peacefully at his home on October 27, 2025, surrounded by his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, and devotion that resonates deeply within his family and community.

A Life of Family and Achievement

Born in North Hollywood to Alejandro and Luisa Valencia, Art exemplified resilience and dedication throughout his life. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Nellie Valencia, with whom he shared a remarkable 73 years of marriage. Together, they nurtured a loving family, raising four children: Mary George, Arturo Valencia, Andy Valencia, and Becky Trillo. His legacy continues through his numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom he cherished deeply.

Art’s family ties extended beyond his immediate relatives. He was predeceased by his sister, Lola Gonzalez, and brothers, Alex, Raymond, and John, but is survived by his siblings, Tito and Choco. These familial bonds were a central aspect of his life, contributing to the warmth and strength of his character.

Passions and Pursuits

Beyond his dedication to family, Art found joy in various pursuits that enriched his life. He cherished camping trips to Glen Ivy, where many fond family memories were created. An enthusiastic bowler, he competed for over four decades at Bowl-O-Drome and later at Gardena Bowl. His athleticism extended to softball, where he played in a men’s league at Torrance Park during the 1960s. Additionally, he was an accomplished pool player, earning a reputation as one of the best in Torrance through his tournament victories.

Art grew up in the tight-knit community of La Rana in Torrance, where he attended Torrance High School. His professional career was marked by an incredible work ethic, starting with 20 years at Soule’ Steel in Carson before becoming a Master Mechanic at McDonnell Douglas. His precision and dedication earned him great respect in his field and reflected his self-made journey from modest beginnings to a life filled with purpose and accomplishment.

Art took great pride in the home he meticulously restored, with each project showcasing his craftsmanship and dedication. A voracious reader, he was a lifelong subscriber to the Daily Breeze, taking particular joy in the fact that his sons had once delivered that very paper.

Though Art is no longer with us, his spirit lives on through the stories shared by his family, the lessons he imparted, and the love he generously gave. Services to honor his life will be held at 4 PM on October 27, 2025, at Bethel Baptist Church, located at 1501 W Carson St, Torrance, CA 90501-3934.