Gus Arriola passed away Sunday in his home in Carmel California at the age of 90. He was suffering the effects of Parkinson's Disease in his later years.

Gus was the creator/artist of the comic strip 'Gordo' from 1941 til his retirement in 1995.

I can honestly say that Gus was a dear friend, even though we never met, we communicated frequently in the late 80s and early 90s. His words of encouragement was always uplifting, his art a delight to read and look at.

Gordo Lopez, Popo the Rooster, Poosy Gato, Dog, Birdie and owl were mainstays in the strip. showing an understanding of hispanic culture even though he was a native Arizonaian.

This was from the heart Amigo, Vaya con Dios.