Rafael Rodriguez Medina

Rafael Rodriguez Medina, 59, passed away on February 27, 2026. Rafael was beloved, brave, generous, hard-working, humorous, and kind-hearted, and his life will be remembered with gratitude and pride by all who knew him. After this introduction, “Rafa” is how family and friends knew him best—and how he will be lovingly remembered.

Rafa was born on March 22, 1966. He attended Cecil Ave Junior High School and graduated 8th grade, then went on to Delano High School, where he graduated. He later made his home in Delano, California.

A dedicated provider and steady presence, Rafa worked at Delano Hospital in the ER Department and, more recently, served as a kitchen supervisor at the Delano prison. His work ethic and willingness to step in and help were part of what made him who he was—reliable, capable, and always thinking of others.

Rafa married Maricel Medina. Their bond was marked by devotion, and the family is especially grateful for the loving care his wife gave him after he became sick.

True to his uplifting spirit, Rafa found joy in the simple, meaningful things: road trips, time together, and fixing Mom’s house. When he was younger, he also loved gathering with friends at his parents’ house—moments filled with laughter, stories, and the kind of warmth that stays with people for a lifetime.

Visitation will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Delano, 707 Browning Rd, Delano, CA 93215-9747, on March 17, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Rosary will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Delano, 707 Browning Rd, Delano, CA 93215-9747, on March 17, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 1015 Clinton St, Delano, CA 93215, on March 18, 2026, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Committal Service will be held at North Kern Cemetery District, 627 Austin St, Delano, CA 93215, on March 18, 2026, from 11:00 am to 11:30 am.

Pallbearers will be Mike Medina, Carlos Medina, Eduardo Hernandez, Abraham Hernandez, Juan Hernandez, Martin Hernandez, Carlos Medina Jr., and Joshua Medina.

Rafa’s life was one of steady love, honest work, and good humor—an example of strength and generosity that will continue to uplift those who carry his memory forward.