Ralph Louis Michelena |
| Posted 2009-12-13 by Sharla |
| The Arizona Republic, Phoenix, Arizona February 9, 2003 Ralph Louis Michelena, 80, passed away February 6, 2003 Arizona Hero laid to rest. An Arizona native, Louis was raised in the Gila Valley, where he graduated from Safford High School and attended Eastern AZ Jr. College until he enlisted in the Army Air Corps during World War II. He was later recalled into the Korean War and served two tours in the Pacific. For his heroics as a fighter pilot, he was decorated with the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with 6 OLC, WWII Victory Medal, American Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, EAME ribbon and the Distinguished Cross of Valor. Louis, not only served his country but his community. As a natural leader, he was elected Justice of the Peace in Graham County, he aided Governor Goddard as State Director of Manpower. He held various administrative positions with the city, county, state and federal government. He is survived by his wife Carolyn of 58 years. three children, Nordella, Louis and Carolyn, six grandchildren Michael A., Cristipher, Gelene, Michael L., Brandon and Ashley and four great-grandchildren Nicholas, Taylor, Cristipher and Domenic. He was a devoted Catholic and was a member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church since 1965. He was an active life-time member of the American Legion and Elks. Viewing will be held at Resthaven Park Mortuary, 4310 E. Southern Av. Phx.. on Tuesday 11th from 5-8pm with a 7pm Rosary. Mass will be held at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, 2121 S. Rural Rd. Tempe, on Wednesday 12th at 10am, followed by graveside services at Queen of Heaven Cemetery 1500 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa. (Obit: Courtesy of Pat Wilson) |
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