Rafael Crespo Jr.

Rafael Crespo Jr., was born on January 26, 1977, in Los Angeles, California, to Rafael Sr. and Charleen Crespo. At the age of five, Rafael and his family settled in Bakersfield, where he grew roots, built a life, and filled his home with love, laughter, and warmth. At the age of 49, he was called home to be with the Lord on January 30, 2026.

Rafael was preceded in death by his mother, Charleen Crespo; his mother-in-law, Vickie Mondragon; sister-in-law Maryann Bethel; and his great-nephew, Josiah Fontes. He is survived by his wife, Erica Crespo; his daughters, Victoria Morales and Danielle Tovar; son-in-law, Ricardo Morales; father, Rafael Sr.; and his siblings, Theresa McKay (husband Todd), Donna and David Crespo (wife Cassandra). He is also survived by many loving uncles, aunts, nephews, and nieces.

As a child, Rafael felt a calling from God that instilled in him a deep desire to serve the Lord. This calling guided every aspect of his life. Through his example and persistent invitations his family was drawn into the Christian faith. He constantly prayed for his family, lifting them up in every moment. During his last days, he shared with Erica that his greatest desire was for his entire family to receive salvation in Jesus Christ.

Rafael and Erica met at church in 2020, during the pandemic. Because normal dating places were shut down their dates consisted of walks in the park and a lot of long meaningful conversations. These conversations became the foundation of a strong marriage based on trust and a shared vision for their life together. On August 29, 2020, Rafael and Erica were united in marriage at an intimate backyard wedding. Rafael became the Godly husband and father that Erica and her girls needed in their lives. He loved Erica with all his heart and without reservation. He showed, in every word and action, how much she meant to him. Rafael poured himself fully into his family, always putting their needs and happiness above his own. He set a high standard for his daughters, showing how a man should treat them. He treasured every moment with the ones he loved most – whether it was a family vacation, playing Fibbage at home, or most recently, karaoke. He also had a deep love for the pets he shared with his family, caring for them as cherished members of the household. His wife and daughters were the reason he fought so hard through his illness and the reason he prayed earnestly for God to extend his life. His love for Erica, Victoria, and Danielle was his anchor-giving him strength, hope, and joy even on the most difficult days. Even in his final moments, he thought of others-comforting his wife, expressing how much he didn't want to leave her, yet surrendering himself peacefully to the Lord while holding Erica in his arms.

Throughout Rafael's life, his heart was set on sharing God's love with everyone he met and living a life of purpose through service. Rafael gave his time, skills, and unwavering support whenever his family or friends needed him. Technology was a lifelong passion for Rafael. After working more than 20 years with his dad as a roofer, he pursued a career in his true career passion – cybersecurity. Even while undergoing treatment, he continued his education and recently earned his master's degree – a powerful testament to his resilience, work ethic, and love of learning. He used this education and talent at Kingdom Harvest Alliance where he volunteered in the media ministry, sharing his knowledge to support God's work.

Above all else, Rafael was a man of God and a man of extraordinary strength. For the last five years, he battled cancer with courage, resilience, and unwavering faith, never once complaining about the pain he was experiencing. Not only did he battle cancer, but through the blood of the Lamb, he defeated cancer. "O death, where is thy sting?". Worship was one of Rafael's greatest joys. He loved worshipping the Lord, and even toward the end, when his body was too weak to stand, he would find the strength to lift his hands in worship to our Lord. Even in the hardest moments, he kept his signature smile, sense of humor, and most importantly, the joy of the Lord. He sought to bring comfort and happiness to those around him. When asked how he was doing, his answer was, "God is good." He continuously worked on home improvement projects, upgrading and fixing things around the house despite physical pain. He was thoughtful and generous, often noticing what others needed before they asked.

Rafael's faith was steadfast; he lived every day putting Jesus Christ first, and serving his family and his church with a selfless heart. He remained a shining example of strength, courage, joy, humor, and devotion until the very end. His life was a true mission of inspiring others to know and serve the Lord through his own example. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that he is now rejoicing in the presence of the Lord he served so faithfully.

In his last days, Erica asked him what his favorite scripture was, and this is what he shared:

"Remember that I have told you this: Be strong and do not be afraid. Do not be weak but be brave. I, the Lord your God, will be with you, everywhere that you go."

- Joshua 1:9