Dolores “Dolly” Arredondo who played a major part in the founding of the Fresno County League of Mexican American Women and later helped nurture Arte Américas died Thursday, June 30, 2023. She was 90 years old. Dolores is survived by her two children, Denise O’Canto of Fresno and Dan Arredondo of Elk Grove. As well as 7 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Dolly was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, David Arredondo of Fresno, the love of her life.
She was one of two children born to Julián Torres, a cook, and Beatrice Chávez. Her stepfather, Frank Chávez, was one of the first Latino police officers in Fresno. Dolly had three children, including a daughter who was killed in a car accident in 1988. The couple met while attending a Christmas dance at the Rainbow Ballroom when David, her husband, a Marine Corps reserve member, returned from a tour in Korea. Dolly was one of the original founders of the League of Mexican American Women in 1973. She served as league president in 1978, 1979 and 1983. She served on numerous boards, and has been honored by Gov. Gray Davis, Congressman Cal Dooley, and Sen. Dianne Feinstein.
Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, August 5 at 10:00 am at held at Lisle Funeral Home, 1605 L Street Fresno, Ca 93721.
