Celestino “Lucky” Teniente

April 6, 1935 – October 4, 2025

Celestino “Lucky” Teniente, 90, of Phelan, California, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2025, at the home he built, surrounded by family after a brief battle with cancer.

Born in San Antonio, Texas, to Piedad and Crecencio Teniente, Celestino later moved to California, where he spent most of his life. He was a proud U.S. Army veteran 

who served his country with honor and dedication.

After his military service, Celestino devoted many years to construction, creating not just homes and structures, but also lasting bonds and cherished memories. He loved fixing and restoring cars and even built his own home, a testament to his skill, 

determination, and pride in his craft.

He is survived by his loving wife, Catalina Teniente; his children, Nanette Thillman (Teniente), Lauren Teniente, and Laura Fiene (Teniente); and his stepchildren, Arturo Hernández, Sergio Hernández, Inez Hernández, Rosa Hernández, Blanca Hernández, Norma Ulloa, and Maria Ulloa—all of whom he loved as if they were his own. He was preceded in death by his stepson, Carlos Hernández. He was proud of his large and loving family, including his many grandchildren, who filled his heart with happiness.

Celestino will be remembered for his hard work, generosity, and the joy 

he brought to everyone around him.

Services

A memorial service will be held on Monday, October 20, at 10:00 a.m. at the Fleur de Lis Chapel in Upland, California, followed by burial at Bellevue Memorial Park in Ontario, California, with full military honors.