Abel Uballe Ceja

A native of Madera, California, Abel was the beloved son of the late Ralph Solis Lopez and Angela Uballe Lopez. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Carlos Ceja, Robert Ceja, and Paul Alfaro; leaves behind his loving sister, Helen Lopez Diaz and Uncle, Frank Montelongo.

Abel cherished his family above all else. He was deeply devoted to his wife & soulmate of 54 years, Elvira Ceja, and was the proud father of eight children: Abel Ceja, Sr., Martin Garcia (Veronica), Raymond Ceja (Rosa), John Garcia (Patricia), James Garcia, Jessica Reclusado (Ruben), Cristina Calvetti (Vince), and Cassaundra Bishop (Joe). His legacy continues through his 32 grandchildren, 47 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren on the way; all of whom brought infinite joy to his life.

In addition to his immediate family, Abel is survived by many nieces and nephews who were very special to him, as well as a large extended family who loved him dearly.

A man of exceptional craftsmanship, Abel spent over thirty-five years as an ironworker with San Jose Steel and West Coast Rebar. He took immense pride in his work, particularly in buildings such as Great America, Moffett Field, Stanford University, Fisherman’s Wharf, and many skyscrapers in San Francisco.

Abel was not only a skilled craftsman but also a great storyteller, especially when it came to history. He had a deep appreciation for Sinatra's charm, and the allure of old Hollywood classics had him under a spell.

He was also an avid sports fan, cheering passionately for the San Francisco Giants in baseball and both the Raiders and San Francisco 49ers in football.

A celebration of Abel’s life will be held to honor the incredible impact he had on those who knew him. Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend the memorial service for Abel U. Ceja, to be held at Lima Family Milpitas-Fremont Mortuary, 48800 Warm Springs Blvd., Fremont, CA on Tuesday, September 3, beginning at 6:00 PM. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 4, at 10:30 AM, and a graveside service will immediately follow at Santa Clara Mission Cemetery, 490 Lincoln Street, Santa Clara, CA 95050.

Abel imprinted on so many lives with his generosity, kindness, and warmth. He will be truly missed by all who knew him.