Ernest C. Felix "Chulo"

Ernest was born in San Bernardino, CA, on June 27, 1932, to the late Crus Felix and Espedita Cervantes. He is survived by his spouse, Lupe Rico, his three sons, Henry Felix, Manual Felix and Ralph Felix, two daughters, Diane Felix and Rosemary Felix and their spouses; along with six stepsons, Art Guzman, Adam Guzman, Allen Guzman, Alex Guzman, Andre Guzman and Antoine Guzman and one stepdaughter, Lisa Don and their spouses. He is also survived by his brother Raul Felix and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by four brothers, Joe Felix, Ignacio Felix, Salvador Felix and Angel Felix.

He grew up in the city of Claremont, CA, graduating from Claremont High and then working at a citrus packing house. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1955 where he had a long military career with over 20 years service, ranking as Sergeant First Class when he retired in 1975. In his many years in the Army, Ernest traveled all over the world, including time in both Korea and Viet Nam. Growing up without his parents at a young age, he made it a point to tell the new recruits to write to their moms and family every week.

After retiring from the Army, Ernest continued his love for cooking by attending a Culinary School in New York. He spent many years as the Kitchen Supervisor at Pitzer College in Claremont, CA, and also had a small food catering business during this time, cooking for large weddings and other celebrations.

In his retirement, Ernie was able to spend time enjoying his many hobbies: collecting sports cards and memorabilia, camping, gardening and, of course, cooking. He was an amazing cook and was able to turn any meal into a delicious masterpiece--as his wife Lupe can attest to. He also enjoyed fun day trips to the horse track or casino. He was friendly to everybody he met and had an easy smile. You could often hear him whistling a tune. He had such a friendly and outgoing personality that he could have a whole line of strangers talking with him (at the supermarket...at the pharmacy...at the doctors' office, etc.). His family and friends will miss him dearly.

The family expresses many thanks to all his healthcare providers for all their assistance and care.

Visitation will be held on Monday, January 20th at Draper Memorial Chapel in Ontario, CA between 5pm-8pm with a Celebration of Life between 7pm-8pm. Graveside service will be held on Tuesday, January 21st at 12pm at Riverside National Cemetery in Riverside, CA.