In Memoriam

Ofelia Valdez-Yeager, Immediate Past President of our Board of Trustees and chair of The Cheech capital campaign (2017-2019), passed away peacefully on January 7, according to a statement from her family. We remember her incredible leadership and her vision, bravery, energy, strength and love which were inspiring to all who got the privilege to serve alongside her.

Ofelia is recognized for her incredible civic achievements, and we remember her for her relentless efforts to establish The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art and Culture of the Riverside Art Museum and her incredible fundraising abilities!

We remain committed to ensuring her legacy at the museum remains for generations to come. We send her family prayers and love at this difficult time and remember her beautiful light.

Ofelia’s family has requested donations to the museum in recognition of her deep commitment to the Riverside Art Museum and the people it serves.

Ofelia’s “Meet Me At The Cheech” campaign to raise funds for exhibitions and education, and to commission a life-size bronze sculpture of Cheech Marin by artist, Ignacio Gomez will continue in her honor.