Rosario Graciano

Rosario “Chayo” Ramirez Graciano was born on August 2, 1926 in Alta Loma, Calif. After living in Mexico for several years with her family, Rosario came back to California and began working at the Cucamonga-Guasti vineyards. An ordinary day soon turned into an extraordinary one when a handsome soldier came to visit the winery. The soldier turned out to be her friend’s brother – Raphael Graciano. It was love at first sight and the two eloped when Rosario was 19 years old. The couple made their home in Ontario, Calif. and were married for almost 67 years.

Rosario was a longtime parishioner of San Secondo d’Asti Catholic Church. She was known for her love of family, devotion to God, green thumb, fondness for oatmeal cookies and enjoyment of attending every single party she was ever invited to. She will be forever remembered for always telling her loved ones “Que Dios te bendiga,” instead of goodbye.

Rosario passed away on September 11, 2021 at the age of 95. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Raphael and infant daughter Estela. She leaves behind a large family who loved her dearly and who will always be grateful for the many, many years they had together. They include: her children Veronica Marchan, Rosamarie Chavez, Alfredo Graciano (Carmen), Elva Felix, Robert Graciano and Paul Graciano (Ophelia); 17 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren (with one more on the way); and 4 great-great-grandchildren (with one more on the way). She is also survived by her brothers Luciano (Chano) Ramirez, Ramon Ramirez, Raul Ramirez, and Gregorio Ramirez; and sisters Ophelia Salcido, Isabel (Chavela) Rangel and Delia Rivas.

A visitation for Rosario will be held on Thursday, Oct. 14 at 4 p.m. at Draper Mortuary, 811 N. Mountain Ave. in Ontario. A Catholic Rosary will occur on Thursday, Oct. 14 from 5 to 5:30 p.m. at Draper Mortuary. A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, Oct. 15 at 10 a.m. at San Secondo d’Asti, 250 N. Turner Ave. in Ontario. A graveside service will take place at 11:30 a.m. at Bellevue Memorial Park, 1240 W. 4th St. in Ontario. Masks are required for all services. There will be no reception after the services.