Ralph M. "Rafael" Barela

The world became a little less bright on February 3, 2026, with the passing of Ralph (Rafael) Barela. Born on November 22, 1948, in Ft. Sumner, NM, Ralph's infectious laughter and unending humor brought joy to everyone around him.

He was preceded in death by his father Lucresio and his mother Mary, His previous wife (mother of his children) Mary Lou Barela. His brother Joe, sister Merlinda and his daughter Selena Sweeney-Bashaw.

Survived by his wife, Debra Barela "Lovie". His siblings, Frank, Josie and Debbie. His children Elaine (Agustin), Anna (Jesus), Maria (Tommy), Anthony (Lori), and Shawn (Jessica).

Beloved Papaw to Ricky (Emma Jane), Angelica, Tommy, Esperanza, Xavier, Alaina, Anthony, Karina, Juliana (Lake), Chato, Ben, Andrew, Gabriela, Evelyn, Lillian, and Megan.

Great Papaw to Mia, Elijah, Jacob, and Bowen.

Loyal friend to many. Whether he was telling jokes, making us laugh, he made every moment unforgettable. Rafael legacy is one of integrity, resilience, and love. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Despite facing numerous challenges, Rafael never wavered in his love and commitment for his family. He came from a humble beginning. Spent his childhood in a one room shack, with no running water or electricity.

Without the advantage of a high school education, he joined the army, obtained his GED. He entered the army in December 1969, served two tours in Vietnam, and became a para trooper. While serving Ralph earned the National Defense Service Medal (NDSM), Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, a Bronze Star Medal, and a Purple Heart. He was honorably discharged in February 1975, after four years of dedication and profound commitment fighting for his country.

He then broke the cycle of poverty to change the trajectory of his families' life.

We will forever appreciate his selflessness to everyone and what he gave to each of us.

His faith, strength and humbleness are the perfect example of how to live our lives.

Memorial Mass for Rafael will take place on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 10:30 am at Christ, Our Light! Catholic Church, located at 3077 Glouchester, Troy, Michigan 48084. Visiting at the church on Monday, will begin at 10:00 am until the time of Mass.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to one of the following charities in his honor. Each of these causes were very important to him.

Love A Michigan Vet. A local Organization that supports veterans with rides to appointments, medicine and numerous other things.

https://www.loveamivet.org/

Preach for Pups. A small grass roots organization that helps with homeless dogs, and low-income families to care for their animals.

https://preachpups.betterworld.org/donation-pages/preach-for-pups-2026-annual-givi

Capuchin soup kitchen. Supporting those in needs in the metro Detroit area with clothing, meals, and other needs.

https://www.cskdetroit.org/en/donate/monetary-donations/