Raul Ontiveros

Raul was born in Compton California on February 9, 1943 to his parents Francisco Ontiveros (d.) and Ygnacio Ontiveros (d.) Raul was preceded in death by his siblings Al, Frank, Randy, and Gilbert. He is survived by three siblings Hope Valencia, Robert Ontiveros, and Helen Imperial.

Raul is also survived by his ex-wife, mother of his children and lifelong friend Linda Howard. His children and their spouses, Mike(Tami), Paul(Amy), Tammy(Osvaldo), and Kimberly(Scott). Including eleven grandchildren Jenica, Daniel, Bryan(d.), Zachary, Chad, Lauren, Haylee, David, Kaylynn, Jordan, and Rebekah and eight great grandchildren Rebeca, Gavin, Benjamin, Tori, Max, Hali, Quinn, and Warren. As well as special nieces; nephews, a sister in law and many others.

Raul was one of eight children. He grew up in a rough neighborhood in Compton California. He learned at an early age to take care of himself and sometimes defending himself physically. Raul’s early experiences ingrained in him resilience through adversity becoming a central theme of his life.

Raul met Linda Nichols and her young son Michael in January 1963, they fell in love and decided to become a family and were married in November 1963. Raul worked to support his new family and they had three more beautiful children together, sadly after twelve years of marriage decided to divorce.

Raul continued to work and visit his kids while trying to adapt to single life. In 1985 Raul’s health began to give him trouble and forced him to retire from his position as a forklift operator after 25 years. Again, Raul had to adjust to a new life.

Raul was a big guy with a gregarious laugh and infectious smile. He was known to strike up a conversation with anyone. People liked Raul for his candor and teasing personality. He loved to “people watch” and ask lots of questions. Raul enjoyed detailing and maintaining his vehicles, gambling, getting his haircut, and flirting with the ladies.

Raul also loved his family. He took great pride in his children and grandchildren. Raul was a collector of things he liked. He kept cards, pictures, certificates of achievements, dating each item so he would always remember. He had a small collection of eagles, big knives, watches, coins and backscratchers.

Sadly, Raul’s health continued to decline and again had to adapt to a new life. He lost his legs in 2010, and some didn’t give him much of a chance to walk again, but he proved them wrong. He learned to walk on prosthetic legs ( he called them his boots) within six months and was living in his own apartment by years end. Raul fought hard to take care of himself for nearly ten years. He lived at Magnolia Grand and enjoyed playing cards, bingo, an occasional round of bowling on the Wii and a friendly game of pool. Raul especially loved visits from family and when his grandson Zack would come play the piano in the dining room.

Unfortunately, Raul’s health continued to deteriorate and he found himself on dialysis and in a new home at Extended Care, a nursing home. Raul contracted Covid 19 on April 17th and fought valiantly giving his best til God said, its time to rest. He expressed his love for his whole family in those precious weeks God gave him.

Our dad Raul was a simple man with many layers and few words. We all knew him in different ways, but most of us will remember him as a fighter with a big heart. He was loved, and will be deeply missed.

We would like to thank all the nurses, doctors, and caregivers that cared for our dad over the years and especially those caring for our loved ones during this terrible pandemic. You are our heroes and we appreciate your sacrifices more than you know. Be safe!

We found this in Raul’s collection

Secret of Life

Take time to Think. It is the source of Power.

Take time to Play. It is the secret of perpetual Youth.

Take time to be Friendly. It is the road to Happiness.

Take time to Work. It is the price of Success.

Take time to Pray. It is the greatest power on Earth.

Take time to Love and be Loved. It is the way of God.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Raul’s memory by contacting your local nursing home, senior living homes and/or amputee organizations for things they may need.

Thank you.