Ralph Angel

May 2, 1951 - March 6, 2020
It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely passing of Ralph Angel on March 6, 2020, following a brief illness, with his wife Mary by his side. He was a loving husband, son, brother, uncle, and great-uncle. A world-renowned author, his profoundly lyrical books of poetry and published poems received countless awards, including a PEN USA Award, a Pushcart Prize, a Gertrude Stein Award, a Fulbright Foundation fellowship, and more. He once said, ""Poetry is the language for which we have no language.""
He was the Edith R. White Distinguished Professor at the University of Redlands for 39 years, and a member of the MFA in Writing faculty at Vermont College of Fine Arts. Ralph was an inspiration and mentor to students and colleagues alike. A lover of literature, nature, art and music, he was a deeply spiritual soul and generous friend. His love for his family and his Sephardic heritage was the essence of who he was. He was loved by everyone for his passion for life, his legendary sense of humor, and the many stories he shared of his extensive travels and life adventures. He will be deeply missed and forever loved.
He is survived by his wife Mary Angel, sisters Joanne Angel and Vicki Rosellini (Albert), nieces Courtney Mahoney (Brendan) and Cameron Rosellini, nephews Stanford (fiancée Caitlin) and Barrymore (Kerry) Rosellini, great-niece Avery Mahoney and great-nephew William Mahoney. And, his beloved finches, Louie and Trini.