July 17, 1928 – January 1, 2026
Ralph A. Guerrero, a devoted family man, proud veteran, and pioneering entrepreneur, passed away on January 1, 2026, at the age of 97.
A proud American and a man of deep faith, Ralph served his country with distinction as a Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. He carried the values of discipline and service throughout his long and productive life.
Ralph was a pillar of the Los Angeles business community for decades. He was a fixture on historic Olvera Street for 45 years, where he helped build the foundation for the iconic Cielito Lindo taquito stand. An innovator in the food industry, he founded the frozen food company Ral-Mex in the 1960s, which became the first to have frozen taquito dinners carried by a major supermarket chain. His tireless work ethic was fueled by his love for his family, often working seven days a week to provide for those he loved.
Above all his professional achievements, Ralph’s greatest pride was his family. He shared over sixty years of marriage with his beloved wife. Together, they built a legacy that includes six children, thirteen grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. He was known for his joyful spirit, always greeting the world with a smile on his face and encouraging those around him to be brave in the face of any challenge. He embodied a quiet strength shared by a generation of men who valued God, country, and family above all else.
Ralph leaves behind a family who will forever honor his memory by living with the same courage, integrity, and warmth that defined his ninety-seven years.
He is survived by his daughters, Catherine Diaz, Carolyn Guerrero, and Cynthia Cuevas, and his sons, Ralph Guerrero, Michael Guerrero, and Gabriel Guerrero. Additionally, he is survived by his grandchildren.
The pallbearers will be Michael Guerrero, Ralph Guerrero, Gabriel Guerrero, Lalo Guerrero, Gabriel Guerrero Jr., and Samuel Guerrero.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Funeraria Del Angel Lincoln Heights, located at 2814 North Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90031, on January 21, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. A Rosary will also take place at the same venue on the same day from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
The Funeral Mass is scheduled for January 22, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 2210 Sichel St, Los Angeles, CA 90031.
Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 966 Potrero Grande Dr, Rosemead, CA 91770, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm.
A reception will be held at Bosco Technical Institute, Multi-Purpose Room, entrance through St. Joseph's Salesian Retreat Center, 8301 Arroyo Dr, Rosemead, CA 91770, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm on January 22, 2026.
