Ralph Chaverria Esparza

He was ever present in his children’s lives, always willing to give a helping hand with whatever was needed. He was kind, generous, dependable, someone you could always count on. Ralph is survived by children; Son Ralph Esparza Jr, Daughter Alma Patricia Esparza Nelson, Son-in-law Tom Nelson, Daughter-in-law Lisa Esparza, Grandchildren; Abel Nelson, Caleb Nelson and Nate Nelson, Great-grandchildren; Kai Nelson and Kaylee Nelson, Sister; Dolores (Lola) and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his Father; Luis Mecias Esparza, Mother; Nemecia Chaverria Esparza, Wife; Carmen Gomez, son; Juan I. Esparza, Brothers; Eduardo, Louis, Ernie, Andy, Johnny, twin brother Raymond, Sisters; Helen, Vera, Lorraine, and Mary.

Attended: Balboa grammar school, Memorial Junior High and graduated from San Diego High School in 1951. He was an active participant of the San Diego High Alumni Association.

Ralph served during the Korean War in the United States Air Force along with his twin brother Raymond. He was Honorably discharged as a StaƯ Sergeant and received the National Defense Service Medal and Good Conduct Medal. As twins, Ralph and Raymond were very close and lived a few feet from each other. Ralph held various positions at San Diego North Island and retired in 1993. He was a lifetime member of the Don Diego VFW Post 7420.

Ralph was a coach/ manager for Tate’s funeral home at Southeast Little League for over 10 years. One of his players he coached made it to the NFL. He was also an accomplished bowler and won many trophies and many leagues’ championships. He was an avid sports fan, and a Padre and Charger season ticket holder. He enjoyed tailgating before the games with family and friends. Ralph has now joined his parents, brothers, and sisters. He will be truly missed by all.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Funeraria del Angel National City, 607 National City Blvd, National City, California 91950, on May 6, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Catholic Funeral Mass will be held at Saint Jude's Shrine of the West, 1129 S 38th St,, San Diego, CA, on May 7, 2026, at 10:00 am.

A Commital Service with Military Honors will be held at Miramar National Cemetery, 5795 Nobel Dr, San Diego, CA 92122, on May 7, 2026, at 12:30 pm.

A Reception will be held at VFW San Diego, 2100 Logan Avenue, San Diego, CA 92113, on May 7, 2026, from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm.