Dr. Ralph M. Simonian

1921 - 2018

March 27, 1921 - July 28, 2018 Dr. Ralph M. Simonian, a long-time resident and enthusiastic member of the Long Beach community, passed away on Saturday, July 28, at age 97. Ralph knew from a young age he wanted to be a doctor and practiced medicine for more than 50 years. He was an avid traveler with his beloved wife, Jan, and enjoyed serving on the boards of various local community organizations. Ralph was born on March 27, 1921, in Fresno, California. The family later moved to Los Angeles, where Ralph was a standout student at Manual Arts High School. During World War II, he served in Okinawa as an Army sergeant before completing his medical studies and going into private practice. He later held positions in industrial medicine and was the police surgeon for the city of Long Beach, working at least part-time well into his 80s.

Ralph's first marriage ended when his wife Helene tragically passed away, leaving Ralph to care for their three young boys. During that time he met Janet Rinella, a local fashion coordinator who had two daughters. Ralph and Jan wed in 1966, and Ralph quickly embraced the girls as if they were his own. Ralph and Jan loved traveling and enjoyed memorable trips to Mexico, Europe, China, Australia, and New Zealand. They were also passionate about raising money for various charities and supported the local arts. Ralph served for many years on the board of Musical Theatre West, whose shows he continued to enjoy until the end of his life. He and Jan were also long-time members of the Seal Beach Center for Spiritual Living, where Ralph served on the board.

Ralph was preceded in death by his first wife, Helene (Cigich) Simonian, second, wife Janet (Rinella) Simonian, and his sons Richard and Robert Simonian. He is survived by his brother and sister, Donald and Doris Simonian; son, Randy Simonian; step-daughter, Lita Orpitelli; step-daughter, Kristine and son-in-law, Eugene Brancolini; five grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be held on Friday, August 3, at 9 a.m., at the Church of Our Fathers at Forest Lawn, Cypress, CA. Ralph will always be remembered for his generous spirit and unwavering devotion to his family and the community. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Musical Theatre West Education and Outreach Department. Please sign the guestbook at presstelegram.com.Church of Our Fathers at Forest Lawn, 4471 Lincoln Ave, Cypress, CA 90630