Neftali Fuentes-Rios, age 34, of Grand Rapids, MN, died on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at the Emeralds at Grand Rapids care facility, in Grand Rapids, MN.

Neftali Alfonso Fuentes-Rios was born on December 11, 1989, in San Jose, CA, to Neftali Fuentes and Amparo "Ida" Rios. He was raised in a family that instilled in him a love for life, and he spent much of his childhood alongside his nieces and nephews.  He grew up especially close to Renee, George, and David, whom he cherished like siblings.

While attending Yerba Buena High School, Neftali began working in the food industry, starting as a dishwasher.  Through hard work and motivation, he quickly worked his way up to prep cook, chef, and into the catering profession. His career was driven by his passion for making people happy, and he found joy in sharing his love of food with others. Neftali had an irresistible personality, and he easily lit up any room he entered, bringing laughter and warmth wherever he went. His generosity and sense of humor made him beloved by all who knew him.

His friendships were deeply important to him, and he greatly enjoyed hanging out with his best friends, David, Ozzi, and Daniel. Neftali was also an outdoors enthusiast who loved spending time fishing and hiking.

In March of 2020, Neftali, along with his mother, relocated to Naytahwaush, MN, to be near his sister, Paulette. Shortly thereafter, his health began to decline as he battled a severe infection and over the next several years, Neftali bravely suffered many ongoing health issues. In his final years, Neftali relocated to Grand Rapids, where he made his home. Though his health challenges were great, his gentle smile, kind heart, and unwavering spirit remained an inspiration to those around him. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Neftali was welcomed home into the embrace of his twin baby girls: Renee and Jade, all of his grandparents, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins who passed before him.  He is survived by his mother, Ida Rios of Naytahwaush; his father, Neftali Fuentas of San Jose; two sisters, Stephanie (Doug) Rios of Chandler, AZ, and Paulette (Rock Keezer) Nelson of Naytahwaush; one brother, Alberto "Ernie" Fuentes-Rios of San Jose, CA; his 12 nieces and nephews; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

No local services are being held at this time.