Ralph Arias

Well, times sure have changed! Life is a lot different than it was during my last entry, and much has been gone through. Truthfully, I am a little bitter that I never got to know Ralph personally. However, I am always blessed by the love, admiration and great stories shared by all his family and friends. Godspeed, Ralph!

I cannot help but wonder what you would think about a day such as this. You are still loved and missed as much as ever.

DAVID PILLADO: thank you for taking the time for your entry, so many years later. Dad is of course deeply missed. Did you paint the roadster?I'm sure Dennis has stories from painting the sedan in the 70s. Both of Dad's 32's are safe and sound-we would love to see photos of your 32 build, and it is no surprise to hear Dad was an inspiration. Perhaps you could reach out on Facebook? --Monica

It's been many years since Ralphs passing but must say I think of him. I worked at the shop at the time he was working on his 1932 Roadster (Ave Auto). He and I shared a common passion on cars and specifically my 1964 GTO. He thought the car that I was restoring was once his GTO from 1964, but it wasn't. In fact, the original owner of my car, Roger Vasquez, inspired him to order a 1964 GTO in exact color and mechanical options. Reason why he thought my car was once his...we laughed about that...

An important mentor to me, Ralph offered more than he knew to my personal development and attention to detail. His warmth and caring nature will last in my memories of him for the rest of my life. I miss you, Ralph - but I know you're not far away.

It took me a while to get over the news of Ralph's passing. He was my teacher, my idol and a very patient foreman. He never even got mad at me when I broke the cigarette lighter off in his 32 Ford with my long legs. I don't know of another person I looked up to as I did Ralph. Fortunate to of known him and Diane

Five years ago today, "the music died".
My amazing husband, father, papa and friend left us.
To all of you who have supported my family and I, I am truly grateful.
His legacy is truly astonishing, as was he.
There are no words to express the pain..Always, LOVED, HONORED AND REMEMBERED. Diane

Arias family - I was glancing through the Nov '13 issue of Hot Rod Deluxe and came across the article about Ralph and his cars. I never met him but did correspond with him back in 1973. At that time I lived in Kennwick, WA and was in the process of installing air conditioning in my '32 Ford 5/w coupe. My wife and I were planning a belated honeymoon to Calif. She was the one who wanted air cond so I wanted to please her. I built the car so figured I could also install air cond. I had...

I just wish to say how special I think it is that you take the time to sign this book, especially those who never even knew my special Pop. Thank you, you have blessed us! -Monica