Passed away peacefully on the morning of Monday July 24th surrounded by his family. Rafael was a loving husband, father, and grandfather who loved and supported his family unconditionally. He cared so deeply for the people around him and he made an impact on many lives.

Rafael was born in Apulco, Jalisco, Mexico and moved to Santa Cruz in 1978 in pursuit of providing a better life for his family. Rafael had a love for gardening, construction, and being with his family. He never failed to celebrate a birthday with his traditional mañanitas and he always had a song request for the mariachi.

He is survived by his wife Rosalina Gallardo Gaona, his 14 children, 26 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren, and 5 great great grandchildren. His gentle and loving spirit will be missed by all who knew him. Until we meet again.

Falleció tranquilamente en la mañana del lunes 24 de julio rodeado de su familia. Rafael era un esposo, padre y abuelo amoroso que amaba y mantenía a su familia incondicionalmente. Se preocupaba profundamente por las personas que lo rodeaban y tuvo un impacto en muchas vidas.

Rafael nació en Apulco, Jalisco, México y se mudó a Santa Cruz en el año 1978 en busca de proporcionar una vida mejor para su familia. Rafael amaba la jardinería, la construcción y estar con su familia. Nunca dejó de celebrar un cumpleaños con sus tradicionales mañanitas y siempre tenía una petición de canción para el mariachi.

Le sobreviven su esposa Rosalina Gallardo Gaona, sus 14 hijos, 26 nietos, 16 bisnietos y 5 tataranietos. Su espíritu gentil y amoroso será extrañado por todos los que lo conocieron. Hasta que nos volvamos a encontrar.