Nicolas Contreras

September 29, 1925 - January 10, 2017

Nicolas Contreras was born in Gómez Palacio, Durango, Mexico on September 29, 1925 to Nicolas Contreras and Socorro Avila. He immigrated to the United States in the 1940's, settling in Los Angeles. As a machinist, he owned his own shop and worked within the aerospace industry for years. Although he retired as a machinist in the 90s, his work ethic did not slow down as he would work in his garage daily and continue to make products and tools for the industry. The garage came to be commonly referred to as the "cueva" or his "man cave." This dedicated space is also where he enjoyed making handmade acoustic guitars, a hobby that he was consistently trying to master till the end. He explored many guitar making techniques and often found himself creating molds, forms and tools of his own along the way. His wide range of knowledge on many subjects combined with the earned respect by many led to him being called "maestro" by family and friends. Nicolas peacefully left us to meet his Lord and Savior on January 10, 2017 with his children by his side. He is survived by 7 children, 17 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, 2 brothers and 2 sisters.