Ralph Sandoval

Ralph “Tuffy” Sandoval, 63, was called home to rest in the Lord’s arms on Feb. 23, 2012, after a brief illness. Ralph was born April 15, 1948. He is predeceased by his mother, Rose “Nana” Arellano; his father, Roque Sandoval; his sister, Gloria Jean Archuleta; and numerous family and friends. Ralph graduated from Central High School in 1968 and soon after enlisted in the Armed Forces and served our country in the Vietnam War. When Ralph returned, he began his career in Masonry and after leaving his mark he retired in 2010. Ralph loved hunting, fishing, working in his yard and helping others. He was a loving man who could always make others smile or laugh. He never had a bad word about anyone and children swarmed to be around him. Ralph leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving children, Rodney (Christine) Sandoval, Roque (Jaime) Sandoval, DeAnn (Lucas) Rivera, and Zolanye McCulley; five grandsons; three granddaughters; a special nephew and niece Lonnie (Michele) Whiting and Sarah Pino, whom he considered as his own, including their children who he loved as his own grandchildren. Ralph is also survived by six siblings, Paul (Carrie) Sandoval, Ruth (Jess) Gaytan, Ray (Ginger) Sandoval, Richard (Caroline) Sandoval, Barbara (Roy) Perez, and Shirley Whiting, with whom he spent time daily. He is also survived by numerous cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends. Ralph will be missed beyond words. He was loved by all who knew him and his gentle imprint upon our hearts will never be forgotten. Funeral Mass 10 a.m. Monday at St. Mary Church, with interment at Imperial Memorial Gardens.