Alfred Solis Adams' Obituary
Alfred Solis Adams
July 23, 1930 – April 24, 2026
On April 24, 2026, Alfred Solis Adams, age 95, walked into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Alfred’s journey began on July 23, 1930, in Bell, California. Born to Aurora and Inez Adams, he was the eighth of fifteen siblings. His legendary work ethic surfaced early; by age nine, he was working as a shoe shine boy. As a young man, Alfred attended Bell High School before his adventurous spirit led him to leave home with only his dog to work on the railroads in Nevada.
In 1950, Alfred married his first wife and soon after answered the call to serve his country. A proud veteran of the Korean War, he served with Company D, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division and was wounded in combat. Following his honorable discharge, he established roots in La Mirada, California, beginning a long career with Pacific Motor Trucking. There, he became a formidable Teamster Union Steward and safety advocate, known for negotiating contracts, settling disputes, and fiercely defending his fellow workers.
He bought a home in the Sunshine Acres neighborhood of South Whittier, California his sanctuary, which he aptly named "Mi Ranchito Buena Vida." It was here that Alfred’s generous and vibrant spirit truly shined. A true rancher at heart, he raised almost every type of livestock imaginable and was often seen riding his horse, Yaqui, through the neighborhood streets. His legendary Teamster get-togethers featured traditional pit-roasted pigs or goats, bringing the community together through food and fellowship.
Alfred eventually married the love of his life, Raquel Zarraras on May 15, 1978. The couple split their time between the Whittier ranch and their home in Rosarito Beach, Mexico. After retiring at the age of 55, Alfred and Raquel spent most of their time in Rosarito Beach where they finished raising their children. Located just steps from the shore, the beach house was a haven for Alfred’s many pets—including parrots and a loyal pack of chihuahuas—The beach house served his love for fishing well. He often went deep sea fishing. One could say that he was an avid fisherman, but daring would be a more appropriate description as he and close friend Chuey (who was a fisherman by trade) would navigate a seven mile journey to the Coronado Islands on a tiny boat with an outboard engine. Where they would spend the night cooking their catch over an open fire under the stars. Then head back home in the morning
Whether he was crossing the Baja desert in his un-airconditioned ’67 pickup with his friend Joe Rantana all the way to the Sea of Cortez or swimming long distances in the ocean with his Brother in law Tony Rocha, Alfred lived with a rugged, stern determination. Yet beneath that exterior was a deeply generous man who never hesitated to lend a helping hand to those in need.
Alfred is survived by his beloved wife, Raquel, and his immense legacy of family: his 11 children, 34 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. Alfred, a strong presence of a man, who left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him, was finally impressed by Jesus Christ whom he came to believe in and love. He is greatly loved by his family and is already missed by many. While his absence is felt deeply, those who have put their faith in Christ are confident they will be with him again.
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