Raphael Ruiz-De-Velasco

Raphael Ruiz-de-Velasco, age 50, of San Antonio, died Saturday, March 23, 2002. Survivors: mother, Juanita Ruiz-de-Velasco; sisters and brothers, Rosalia Ruiz-de-Velasco and Jeannine Soucie, Carlos Ruiz-de-Velasco and wife, Laura, Jorge Ruiz-de-Velasco and Lisa Hernandez and husband, Abel; half-brother, Rafael Ruiz-de-Velasco; half sister, Rosa Jimenez and husband, Joe; nieces and nephews, Eric, Monica, Christina, Katie, Lisa, Anthony, J.J. and Maggie; aunts, uncles, cousins and beloved friends.

A GLORIOUS FAREWELL

Raphael, we wonder if fifty years ago your mother immediately knew the impact her newborn would have on this world. Throughout your life your focus was always clear and your goals well defined. Accomplishing those goals was a dream you were able to fulfill in your lifetime. Being a successful entrepreneur may be how most people will remember you, but you are so much more.

To those of us who had the luxury to know you and to love you, you are so much more. We understand that your true goal was to be a good and loving person and you fulfilled that goal everyday of your life. Raphael, you are the best friend anyone could ever ask for, a wonderful brother, a loving and giving uncle to your nephews and nieces, a great and fair colleague, but your best virtue is that you have been a spectacular son. Your true joy and the reflection of your accomplishments came from the happiness you provided to the people you truly care for, your brothers and sisters, nephews and nieces, your best friends, and most of all from the spark in your mother's eye whenever she looked at you, as only a mother can. As we prepare to say so long to a part of you, we are so grateful for what you leave behind. You leave us with the memory of your spirit and outlook on life that will forever influence and inspire us. While you were with us, you inspired us to be better and to follow your example of living life to its fullest. Rest in peace and be assured that those of us that truly love you and whom you truly love, will continue to live out your dreams and expectations.