Carlos Ureña

Celebrating the Life of Carlos Ureña

March 3, 1957 – February 19, 2026

Carlos “Rodo” Ureña, a loved Husband, Father, Ampa, and Friend, passed away on February 19, 2026, at the age of 68.

Born on March 3, 1957, in San Jose, Costa Rica, to Pepe and Carmen Ureña, Carlos spent his early childhood living the “Pura Vida” in Costa Rica before moving with his family to the United States at the age of 14. While he was a proud American citizen, Carlos never lost his passion for his Costa Rican roots. He remained a “puro, puro puro Tico" at heart until his very last day, embodying the Costa Rican spirit of Pura Vida—living life with a simple, grateful, and joyful spirit.

A Life of Dedication

Carlos was the definition of a hardworking man. He spent his entire career as a driver to provide for his family. He worked as a delivery driver for over 20 years before transitioning to a 20-year career as a bus driver for OCTA. To Carlos, a job wasn't just a paycheck, it was a commitment. He taught his children the value of responsibility, the importance of showing up on time, and what it meant to provide for those you love through steady, hard work.

The Life of the Party

If you met Carlos, you had a friend for life. He was a naturally social soul who could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere. He loved to joke, tease, and make people laugh, finding genuine happiness in the happiness of others. Nothing brought out his passion quite like sports. A lifelong soccer fan, Carlos played the game from his youth in Costa Rica through his 30s in local adult leagues. His favorite soccer teams were the Costa Rican National team, Liga Deportiva Alajuelense, and US National team. He loved watching games on TV with the family or on his own. He was also a lifelong fan of Dodger baseball and UCLA football and basketball.

However, his favorite athletes were undoubtedly his granddaughters. He was a fixture on the sidelines of their games becoming their teams most passionate fan and familiar and friendly face to all the other parents in the stands.

Family and Legacy

Carlos is survived by his mother, Carmen Ureña; his wife of many years, Marta (Echazabal) Ureña; his children, Jasen Ureña and Jennifer Reyes; and his siblings, Marta Zermeno and Luis Ureña. He remains a beloved Ampa to his four granddaughters: Sofia, Iza, Makayla, and Emilia. He was preceded in death by his father, Pepe Ureña.

Memorial Contributions

In honor of Carlos’s generous spirit, the family requests that in lieu of flowers or gifts, donations be made to the family’s favorite charities. He would have wanted his legacy to be one of giving like he gave to his family for so many years.

Marta Ureña: St Jude Children's Hospital  
Jasen Ureña & Family: Olive Crest  
Jennifer Reyes & Family: Holy Trinity Church