Ralph E. RIOS

RIOS, Ralph E. 91, passed away peacefully on November 19, 2017 next to the woman he loved for over 68 years. Born in El Paso, TX and raised in Tucson, AZ, Ralph married Wanda Taft, the love of his life on February 26, 1949 and together they raised three wonderful children. Ralph proudly served in the United Sates Navy during WW II, and went on to work in Civil Service until his retirement at DMAFB. Ralph spent his leisure years traveling with Wanda, playing a mean game of racquetball, and outwitting his adversary's on the chessboard. He was an avid reader, and an expert at the daily crossword puzzle. His family was the center and purpose of his life and he derived his greatest happiness in spending time with his children and grandchildren and experiencing their life through their achievements and their important milestones. Ralph always kept you on your toes with his sharp wit and sense of humor. He was a true gentleman, teacher and mentor to all those who knew him, especially the children in his life. Ralph loved family gatherings and having an opportunity to have "two fingers" of Jack Daniels! Cheers! Safe travels to your final resting place. Ralph is survived by his wife, Wanda; son, Michael (Jan); daughters, Kathy Thompson (Tommy) and Christine Fettig (George); ten grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren. Interment at East Lawn Cemetery will be a private family ceremony. A Celebration of Ralph's life will be held Saturday, December 2, 2017 at 3:00 p.m. at the home of Wanda Rios. Arrangements by DESERT ROSE HEATHER MORTUARY.