Aurelio Villanueva was born on December 2, 1919 in Vieques, Puerto Rico. Aurelio was affectionately called "Yeyo." He was one of thirteen children; 12 boys and 1 girl. In his early 20's he emigrated from Puerto Rico to New York to live with one of his older brothers. He met Apolonia Garcia and was married on Feb 28, 1948. He worked for Kings Springs Factory for over forty years until his retirement.

In 1954, he became a foster parent with The Angel Guardian Home. He raised over a dozen children from this agency.

Aurelio was a member of the Democratic Club. He will be fondly remembered for his love of telling stories, fishing and especially his passion for professional boxing.

He survived by his brother, Nicasio; sister, Virginia Figueroa; his children, Nancy, Carl, Dolores and Lisa; his son-in-law Deacon Albert Saldana; his daughter-in-law Patricia; his grandsons, Anthony and Danny; his granddaughters Lisa Reyes (Candy) and Yvette Harris; his great-granddaughter Ava and Ava's dad Troy Harris.