Ralph Munoz Gonzales

Ralph was born on May 19, 1924 to Sipiano Gonzales and Amelia Gonzales. Ralph was the eldest of 8 children- Reynaldo, Beatrice, Nellie, Samuel, Carol, William, and Sipiano Jr.

In early 1943, Ralph joined the US Army to defend his country in World War II. During the war Ralph received injuries during combat in the Pacific Theater (with the 132nd Infantry). Ralph was honorably discharged in 1945. While recovering from his injuries, Ralph began writing letters to Mary Burrell and their courtship began. On September 11, 1944, Ralph and Mary were married. Ralph lived in San Diego the rest of his life (in Logan Heights on Julian Ave until 1978 and then to his current residence on Morrison Street). Ralph and Mary shared 69 years of marriage and raised 10 children: Henry, Manuel, Richard, Raymond, Andrew, Ralph, Linda, Eloise, and Sandra.

Ralph had 21 grandchildren, 34 great grandchildren, and 3 great great grandchildren.

Ralph worked 24 years for the United States Postal Service most of that time at the Midway distribution center. Ralph was always a great provider for his family and loved them unconditionally. During his retirement, Ralph spent most of his years helping Mary raise not only their children but many of their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ralph also enjoyed gardening, music, reading the entire newspaper, and singing.

Ralph is survived by his three daughters: Linda, Eloise, and Sandra (and his many grand, great, and great-great-grandchildren).

Ralph will be missed but we take comfort in knowing that he is reunited with his wife.