Ralph C. Olivarez

1955 - 2025

Ralph C. Olivarez, age 70, of Salinas, CA, passed away on August 4, 2025.

Born on June 5, 1955, in La Angostura, Michoacan, Mexico, to Rafael and Beatriz Olivarez. Ralph lived a life marked by curiosity, determination, kindness, and generosity. He was known for his devotion to family, empowering Latinos to pursue professional careers, and his compassionate nature. Ralph immigrated to Watsonville, California, in the early 1960s and graduated from Watsonville High School in 1974. In the summertime, Ralph spent his time helping his parents' income by picking string beans, strawberries, and other crops (and he made a lot of life-lasting friendships). He started a legacy by being the first of the Olivarez family to attend San Jose State University. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Industrial Engineering & Management in 1979.

Ralph started his career in the semiconductor and computer industry in Silicon Valley as an industrial engineer. He later dedicated the majority of his professional career to the agriculture industry, serving as a Director of Safety. He approached life with an inventive spirit and a love for building and fixing. He enjoyed watching his favorite sports teams: The LV Raiders, Oakland A's, and Golden State Warriors, but would always make it a point to watch the San Jose State Spartans football team play.

Ralph was a beloved husband to Anna Olivarez, a devoted Father to his son Stephen Olivarez, and a loving father-in-law to Alejandra Olivarez. In recent months, he was overjoyed to become a grandfather to Leon Olivarez, who brought him immense happiness. His family was his most significant source of pride and joy, and he cherished every moment spent with them.
Ralph is survived by his wife, Anna Olivarez; his son, Stephen Olivarez; his daughter-in-law, Alejandra Olivarez; and his grandson, Leon Olivarez. He is also survived by his siblings: Jose Olivarez, Margarita (Jose) Martinez, Olga Telles, Martha Carrera, Frank (Anna) Olivarez, Jerry (Francis) Olivarez, Sergio (Luz) Olivarez, Gina Olivarez, and his sister-in-law, Elvira Olivarez. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rafael and Beatriz Olivarez; his brother, Jesus Olivarez; and his loyal dog, Aspen Olivarez.

A viewing and rosary will be held on August 24, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm, at Mehl's Colonial Chapel, with the rosary starting at 7:00 pm. A funeral mass will be held on August 25, 2025 at 10:00 am, at St. Patrick's Church in Watsonville, CA, where services will conclude.