Mario Gilbert Requejo passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, July 29, 2021, in Lompoc. Mario was born on March 2, 1961, in Santa Barbara. He was raised and lived in Carpinteria, attending the local schools and playing soccer with his brothers and cousins.

As a youngster, he was involved in civil rights, walking with Cesar Chavez in l972, from Aliso School to Goleta, proudly carrying the United Farm Workers flag.

In his teens, Mario developed a passion for lowrider bikes (winning trophies) and later spent endless hours working on lowrider cars. Mario was very proud of cruising in his nice “rides” throughout Santa Barbara and Los Angeles counties and listening to his old school music.

Mario was employed by the United States Postal Service for more than 30 years, and later took an early retirement. During his retirement years, he became a gourmet cook, sharing his dishes with all, and spending quality time with his family, parents and friends.

Mario was known as a wonderful father, a Viking fan, barbecue expert, golfer, and karate coach to his two sons. He will be missed by all and remembered by those whose lives he touched.

He is survived by his loving wife of 40 years Susan Requejo; sons Mario Jr. and Thomas; parents Ricardo and Julia Requejo; siblings Richard, Jr., Kathleen, Joseph (Jennifer), Suzanne, Walter (Maribel), Thomas, Paul (Theresa) John Requejo; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Mario will be remembered as an outgoing person who you could always count on to help and provide comfort to those in need.

Services will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 13, followed by a committal service at the Carpinteria Cemetery. A reception will be held in St. Joseph’s Church Hall following; all are welcomed to attend.