Fred “Slick” Avalos, 89, a lifetime resident of San Diego, died August 17th of natural causes.

A child of the Depression, his parents immigrated to the U.S. to escape the Mexican revolution in 1916. In California the family became farmworkers and later Avalos secured a better future for his family as one the first Mexican Americans to join the Carpenter’s Union. He was also a professional boxer and served in the Army Air Corps in World War II.

An expert in carpentry and construction, Avalos travelled the world working on construction projects, eventually forming his own company. He remained involved in the labor union politics for the majority of his life. A man of courage, Avalos often spoke truth to power regardless of the personal consequences.

His daughter Fredi Avalos noted: “He taught us that a meaningful life is based on service to others, especially those who are oppressed. There were times when he literally gave people the shirt off his back.”

His beloved wife Antonia, died in 2004. Fred Avalos is survived by his four daughters Barbara Avalos (National City School Board member), Bernadette Castro (community activist), Fredi Avalos, PhD, Ava Avalos MD, and sons–in-law Art Castro and Mark Day – all of whom work towards positive social change. His descendants also include 5 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 3 great great grandchildren.

A graveside service with full military honors will be held at the Holy Cross Cemettery at 11:00 am on Saturday, August 25. A reception will follow in Bonita.