Meet the California Family Who Has Been Making Disney Magic For 65 Years
For many of us, the Disney Parks are inextricably linked to our families and the memories that we made together. Whether you first visited Disney as a young child, grandparents in tow, as I did, or you made memories with your own children later in life, family is often at the heart of our Disney experiences.
As it turns out, however, the Disney-family connection does not only apply to guests, but also to Cast Members.
Photo: Disney
With this in mind, I would like to introduce you to Ref Aguayo, an ager/grainer Cast Member who has worked at Disneyland Resort for decades.
Ref’s Disney Journey
Ref’s Disney story began in 1975 when he followed in his father-in-law’s footsteps and was hired as a custodial Cast Member. Eventually, he would apply for an ager/grainer apprenticeship and spend three years learning everything he needed to know about the craft.
Photo: Disney
For those who don’t know, ager/grainers are painters who specialize in creating aged, weathered, or woodgrained surfaces on sets, props, and buildings.
After spending 16 years at Disney, Ref began to freelance. Eventually, he would pass along his craft to his children, Gilbert, Frank, and Nat. The family business thrived and even included Disneyland Resort projects.
A Family Affair
When C Ref was brought back into the Disneyland fold as a full-time ager/grainer. Eventually, he would help bring Radiator Springs to life.
Photo: Disney
Today, Ref’s sons, Gilbert and Frank, continue to study under their father while also painting Disneyland set pieces delivered for upkeep. Ref’s daughter, Nat, is also a Cast Member and works as part of the asset management team.
The Man Who Started It All
Like so many of us, Ref and the children’s love for Disney began with Ref’s father-in-law, Frank Garcia. Hired as a custodial Cast Member in 1960, Frank would tell Ref stories of seeing Walt Disney meandering through the park.
Photo: Disney
Later, Frank would join the Disneyland upholstery team and eventually work on projects alongside Ref’s team.
In memory of Frank and his lasting impact, the Aguayo family visits a brick with his name on it, located between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
Photo: Disney
For three generations now, the Aguayo family has made magic happen at Disneyland. Hopefully, their legacy will continue for decades to come.
