Xavier "Xavi" Cardenas

Xavier “Xavi” Cardenas lived 42 unforgettable years — and in that time, he managed to do what many spend a lifetime trying to accomplish: he made people feel something real.

Known by many names — Xav, Javi, HOV, PMP C, BOB, Diego’s Father, and Julian’s Keeper — Xavier wore every title with pride. But above all, the name he cherished most was Dad.

From the moment you met Xavi, you knew you were in for an experience. His storytelling was vivid, animated, and often larger than life (replication not recommended). His laughter was contagious. His presence was bold. Whether you were a lifelong friend or a complete stranger, he had a rare ability to make you feel comfortable, seen, and included. He was authentically, unapologetically, shamelessly — and selflessly — himself.

He had the biggest heart and would do anything to help others, never asking for anything in return. Xavier was an incredibly hard worker at everything he did, approaching life with determination, loyalty, and strength of character.

At a young age, Xavier proved that courage was not just a personality trait but part of his character. He received a Medal of Courage after waking his neighbors during a house fire, pounding on doors and windows until they were safely alerted. That instinct — to run toward the fire when others might hesitate — followed him throughout his life.

He studied at MiraMar Community College in San Diego and built a work history that reflected his versatility and work ethic — serving as a Technical Support Manager at Preppers Peak, working as a server, and installing flooring. No matter the job, he brought personality, humor, and commitment with him.

Outside of work, Xavi prioritized fitness and embraced the San Diego lifestyle. He loved cruising along the beaches at sunset, catching that perfect glow of California light. A natural “flexer,” and rightfully so, he took pride in his discipline and wasn’t shy about celebrating his hard-earned gains.

He also had a deep love for Mexican food — especially when it came with Grandma’s homemade hot salsa, which always held a special place at the table and in his heart.

Without question, Xavier’s greatest accomplishment was being a father to Diego Julian Cardenas. Diego was his world, his motivation, and his heart. Everything Xavier did, he did with the pride of being “Diego’s Daddy.” That bond remains his most meaningful legacy.

Those who knew Xavi will say the same thing: life was never boring around him. A firsthand Xavi encounter was an event — something you retold, laughed about, and remembered. His energy filled rooms. His personality left permanent impressions.

Though his physical presence is gone, the memories are not. The stories are not. The laughter is not.

Xavi leaves behind a legacy of bold authenticity, courage, generosity, and unconditional love.

Xavier is survived by his beloved son, Diego Julian Cardenas. He is also survived by his parents, Elizabeth A. Cardenas and Jose (Margie) Cardenas; his siblings: Julian (Pamela) Cardenas, Cynthia (Jared) Broderick, Amanda (Luis) Trigueros, and Andrea Cardenas; along with extended family members and countless friends whose lives were forever changed by knowing him. Surviving Grandmother Maria Cardenas. He was preceded in death by his grandparents: Richard Torres, Josie Torres, and Jose Cardenas.

A Celebration of Life will be held at El Vaquero Mexican Restaurant in Perrysburg, Ohio, on Sunday, March 1st, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Family and friends are invited to gather, share stories, laughter, and memories — honoring Xavi in the way he would have wanted: together.

                                                                                                  Prayer of Serenity

God, grant us the serenity, to accept the things we cannot change, the courage to change the things we can, and the wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time; enjoying one moment at a time; accepting hardship as the pathway to peace; taking, as He did, this world as it is, not as we would have it; trusting that He will make all things right if we surrender to His will; that we may be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with Him forever in the next. Amen.