Kyle David Avelar, 37, passed away on May 18, 2025, in McKinleyville due to heart complications. Born on October 31, 1987, in Eureka, Kyle brought light and laughter into the world from the very beginning — fittingly arriving on Halloween, his favorite holiday.

A proud graduate of Arcata High School’s Class of 2006, Kyle left a lasting impression both in and out of the classroom. He was a standout athlete during his high school years, playing three years of varsity football and earning both the Circle A and Blanket awards for his dedication and performance. His leadership extended beyond athletics — he served as Regional President of the Future Farmers of America (FFA), where he inspired peers with his commitment to agriculture and community service.

Kyle’s passion for horticulture at an early age blossomed into a celebrated talent. He won multiple awards at the Humboldt County Fair for his flowers—an achievement that reflected not only his skill but also his deep connection to nature. Gardening was more than a hobby for Kyle; it was a way to nurture beauty and share it with others. He even created a memorial garden for his neighbor Emerald, a gesture that spoke volumes about his compassion and thoughtfulness.

His love for the outdoors was evident in his favorite pastimes — camping and river rafting along the Rogue River were among his most cherished adventures. Whether tending to plants or paddling through rapids, Kyle found joy in life’s simple pleasures.

Kyle also gave back to his community in meaningful ways. He built a Little Free Library to encourage reading and connection among neighbors — a small structure that symbolized his generous spirit and belief in sharing knowledge.

He was an avid fan of the Sacramento Kings, San Francisco 49ers and Giants, cheering passionately for his teams through every season. But perhaps nothing brought him more joy than spending time with those closest to him. He deeply cherished his role as uncle to Ayva and Axtyn, forming bonds filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Kyle took great pride in his Portuguese heritage, honoring the traditions passed down through generations. His family roots were central to who he was.

He is lovingly remembered by his parents Dave and Anne Avelar, brother Tyler Avelar (Megan), grandparents Darrell and Carol Byard, aunts Mary Furtado, Olimpia Avelar, Kristie Ghisetti (Troy) and Shelley Chau (Will), uncles Carlos Avelar (Ruth) and Doug Byard (Machelle), cousins Diane Sloane (Dave), Steve Furtado (Lorrie), Mario Avelar (Andrea), Victor Avelar, Kris Avelar (Jessica), Michael Avelar (Maria), Trevin Avelar (Brianne), Jordan Kauffman (Sam), Ryan Ghisetti and Luke Chau, niece Ayva, nephew Axtyn, and numerous family members and friends whose lives he touched with kindness and warmth.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather Fernando Avelar, grandmother Lourdes Avelar and uncles Fred Avelar and Angelo Furtado.

Kyle and his beloved dog, Merlin, are now reunited and will continue their journey together forever.

Kyle David Avelar lived with heart, humor, and humility. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire acts of kindness in the world he leaves behind.

In remembrance of Kyle’s life, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to the charity of your choice. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Kyle Avelar’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.