Rafael Antonio Alonso

Rafael Antonio Alonso, 62, passed away June 4th, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family. Born on April 17, 1964, in Venezuela, Rafael's journey took him to Spain at the age of 12 and eventually to the United States when he was 21, where he built a life defined by hard work, creativity, and an unwavering devotion to his family.

Rafael worked for General Motors performing paint touch-ups, but to his family he was much more than that. He was our personal mechanic, artist, inventor, teacher, and problem solver. There seemed to be nothing he couldn't build, fix, create, or figure out. His talents knew no limits.

Whether he was forging knives, collecting model ship and lighthouse replicas, working with his hands, or pursuing one of his countless hobbies, Rafael approached life with passion, curiosity, and creativity. He was truly an artist in every sense of the word.

Those who knew Rafael will remember his quick wit, sarcastic humor, stubborn determination, and larger-than-life personality.

Beneath that tough exterior was a man who noticed everything and remembered the smallest details about the people he loved.

He showed his love through actions. Every morning he made sure his wife, Margaret Lynn Alonso, had her McDonald's coffee prepared exactly the way she liked it. He never forgot that his oldest daughter, Carolina, hated ketchup and made sure it never came near her food. He carefully chose meaningful gifts for his children on Valentine's Day and every holiday, no matter how small. He took his son Rafael, everywhere he could, whether it was fishing, spending time together, or visiting the gun range. And he made sure to be there for his daughter, Stephanie, whose sensitive heart reminded him so much of his own mother.

Rafael's greatest accomplishment was not the things he built with his hands, but the love he built within his family. He was a devoted husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend whose presence made those around him feel cared for, protected and loved.

He is survived by his loving wife, Margaret Lynn Alonso; his children, Carolina Alonso, Stephanie Alonso, and Rafael Alonso; his mother, Antonia Peña; his brother, Angel Alonso; his niece and nephew, Martin Alonso and Raquel Alonso; his stepchildren, Travis, Joe, and Chelsea; his step-grandson, Elijah and countless family members and friends whose lives were made better by knowing him.

Rafael leaves a legacy of love, creativity, laughter and devotion. Though our hearts are broken by his loss, we find comfort in the countless memories he gave us, the lessons he taught us, and the love that will remain with us forever.

A father like Rafael can never be truly replaced. His hands built many things throughout his life, but the most important thing he built was a family that loved him deeply. He will be deeply missed, endlessly loved, and forever remembered.

Visitation will be held at Grand Prairie Funeral Home, Chapel, 733 Dalworth Street, Grand Prairie, TX 75050, on June 13, 2026,

at 12:00 pm. A Celebration of Life will be held at Grand Prairie Funeral Home, Chapel, 733 Dalworth Street, Grand Prairie, TX 75050, on June 13, 2026, at 2:00 pm.