November 4, 1942 - July 2, 2020

Fahir Milian was born in Cuba on November 4, 1942, to his parents, Emilio Milian and Maria Did. In 1963 Fahir fled to Miami to live with his brother Lázaro. With the money they brought from Cuba, they opened a dry cleaner, “Capris Cleaner.” Being the youngest of four, this caused his mother to be overprotective; he worked in the family business, but he had so much planned for his future. On November 18, 1974, he met Gurith Torres while working at his family business. They moved in together and married on November 12, 1975, in Calle Ocho “Key West.” In 1976, they drove to California to live the “California dream.” Fahir and Gurith have resided in the City of Downey for over 40 years. They opened Miami Fashion in 1976, and in 1980 Studio 100 was opened in the city of Bell. Unfortunately, the economy was at its lowest, making this difficult for them to continue their businesses. It was right after Fahir and Gurith became foster parents through Los Angeles County in 1992. While receiving children from out-of-home care, he noticed Spanish-speaking children being placed in English Holmes; he saw the need for more Latino homes. As a Latino, he then researched and began to submit his application with community care licensing to the state of Sacramento for approving a Latino agency. In November of 1994, Ninos Latinos Unidos was established. In 2008, they established Miltor LLC. Providing services to adults with intellectual disabilities, they eventually expanded their services and opened two other facilities. Fahir dedicated all of his time to his businesses until July 2, 2020, when he passed from an acute cardiopulmonary arrest.

From his daughter: At the age of three, my father knew I needed affection; just then, he stretched his arms every morning, evening, and night to give me warm hugs and kisses. He chose to be present, wanted to be involved, and wasn’t too busy to give five minutes to be there. He knew how to spend time with his children, giving us his full attention. Times when we cried or laughed while watching movies together. Yelled “Dominos” or “UNO” when we played outside on the patio or in the living room and lived this thing we call life together. He knew that kids messed up and needed regular correction and guidance. He knew God had given me to him to prepare me for life. He was patient and kind towards me, even when he had to be firm. Yes! I know that his correction and discipline for being done were out of love and understanding, not out of anger or frustration. He loved me unconditionally. Whether we were having fun or getting in trouble, we never questioned Dad’s love. Because he regularly told us and because he showed us periodically. My dad made a difference in the lives of others by following the example of God. He was helpful. Willing to help anyone in any situation. If he stepped up, you’d step up too. He loved serving others. He lived an abundant life for others in need and encouraged us to do the same. He desires to fulfill his role to its fullest. He is a man of faith. -- Beatriz Milian