Rafael Medina

Rafael was born in Napala, Sinaloa, Mexico on October 24, 1930 to parents Guadalupe and Teresa (Vasquez) Medina. He was the oldest of 10 siblings.

Rafael married his beloved wife, Teresa Lugo on January 6, 1958 in Sinaloa, Mexico. They just celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary this January. Rafael and Teresa loved spending time together with their family and took pride in raising their 7 children.

Rafael was very handy. He knew a little about everything; plumbing, electrical, construction, mechanics…he did it all. He didn’t like to sit idle, he was constantly moving and working with his hands. He was a landscaper for most of his life and he spent most of his working years with Chevron. There, he formed lots of life-long friendships. In his free time he enjoyed being outdoors; gardening, hunting or simply fixing things. Most of all he loved spending time with his family and playing cards while having a drink with his good friends. He loved sharing stories from when he was growing up in Mexico. He was definitely a character. There was never a dull moment when he was around.

Rafael is survived by his wife, Teresa Medina; children, Rafael Jr., Francisco, Fidel, Roberto, Silverio, Terri and Gloria; 14 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; and many family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

A visitation for Rafael will be held Wednesday, February 12, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Green Acres Mortuary & Cemetery, 401 North Hayden Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85257. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday, February 13, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Saint Daniel the Prophet Roman Catholic Church, 1030 Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85257. A graveside service will follow on Thursday, February 13, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Green Acres Cemetery, 401 Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85257.