Jorge Andrés Burgueño Céja unexpectedly passed away peacefully at home on January 17, 2026, in Aptos, California, at the young age of 52. He passed after a courageous, lifelong battle with epilepsy.
Andrés was born on July 29, 1973, in Villa Juárez, Nayarit, Mexico, to Virginia Céja López and Andrea Burgueño Virgen, both of Villa Juárez. He later made his way to the United States, a journey whose story reads like a movie script—one that left anyone who heard it in awe.
Andrés graduated from Yerba Buena High School in San Jose, California, in 1992.
Andrés competed in cross country and track and field under Coach Bean, breaking records that ultimately took him to Los Angeles to try out for the Olympics. Coach Bean, along with his wife, played a pivotal role in Andrés’s life—welcoming him into their home and raising him as one of their own.
Known affectionately as “the wine guy,” Andrés spent nearly 19 years as a manager at the local Rancho Safeway in Aptos, where he made a lasting impression on coworkers and customers alike. His passion for wine went far beyond his work; he dedicated himself to daily study in pursuit of becoming a sommelier.
Through determination and hard work, he achieved Level Three certification, leaving only two levels remaining to complete his dream. Andrés was also known for “Andrés Street Style Tacos.” He was passionate about providing catering throughout the Santa Cruz County region and was incredibly proud that his dad taught him how to become a taco guy. Vanessa’s dad, Santiago, also encouraged them and provided the supplies they needed to start their small business.
Andrés was happily married to his wife and life partner, Vanessa Burgueño Murillo, for 18 years. Together, they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and devotion to family. His infectious smile and bright, energetic personality left an impact on everyone he met. Andrés is survived by his beloved wife, Vanessa; his children Samuel, Emma, Guillermo, and Claudia Burgueño; and his seven siblings—five sisters and two brothers. He is reunited in passing with his older brother, Guillermo.
Family was the center of Andrés’s world. He dedicated his life to his wife and children, always making sure they knew how deeply loved they were.
Beyond his family, Andrés had many passions, including his love for Volkswagen cars and his involvement with the Santa Cruz Dub’n VW Club. He was the inspiration behind the Santa Cruz Dub’n VW Show, which raised thousands of dollars for local education. Community mattered deeply to Andrés, and he was always thinking of ways to make a positive impact.
Andrés will be remembered for his generosity, his passion, his unforgettable smile, and the joy he brought to so many lives. His legacy lives on through the family, friends, and community he loved so dearly.
A viewing and rosary will be held on Friday, January 30, from 5 – 9 p.m. with rosary starting at 6:30 p.m. at Mehl’s Colonial Chapel, 222 E. Lake Ave. in Watsonville.
Funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 31 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 435 Monterey Ave. in Capitola, with a Celebration of Life to follow from Noon – 7 p.m. at Aptos Village Clubhouse, 100 Aptos Creek Rd.
All are welcome to attend. Please wear LIGHT colors, preferably light blue or white. NO BLACK CLOTHING.