GUADIANA, Ralph R.

Arizona Silver Belt, Globe, AZ Wednesday, March 16, 2011 Ralph R. Guadiana, age 78, passed away at his home in San Manuel on Feb.11, 2011. Ralph was born June 11, 1932 in Miami, Ariz. during the Great Depression, and started working at the age of six, selling newspapers, running errands, and shining shoes. He continued working throughout his childhood, so he could assist his family. He graduated from Miami High School, where he was an outstanding athlete. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving in the Korean War aboard the U.S.S. Colahan, as a Third Class Petty Officer-Torpedo-Man. During on emission, he saved his ship, and shipmates, by throwing a torpedo overboard, seconds before it exploded. Ralph married his high school sweetheart, Lorenzo (Lencha) Madrid, while in the Navy. After serving his country honorably, Ralph and Lencha moved to San Manuel, when the town was created. He was employed at Magma Copper Company for 30 years as a heavy equipment operator. He then worked for Pinal County for 11 years. They raised their four children, Patsy, Ralph Jr., Kenny and Teresa in San Manuel., where Ralph and Lencha were active members of the community. They were also active in their church, St. Bartholomew’s Roman Catholic Parish. Ralph worked for many years with Youth Ministry and the Cursillo movement, where he touched many lives by sharing his love of God and encouraging others to follow Christ. After a long, hard battle with cancer, Ralph was called to Heaven to be with the Lord. He was at home, surrounded by his family and friends, who sent him off with prayers and love. He is preceded in death by his parents, Eusebio and Agripina Guadiana; brother, Robert Guadiana; and grandson, Christopher Garcia. He is survived by his wife, Lencha; children, Patsy, Ralph Jr., Kenny and Teresa; nine grandchildren; brother, Mike; sister, Virginia; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. His smile, laugh, funny stories, sound advice and generous soul will be missed by all who loved him. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Bartholomew’s Catholic Parish. Services fro Ralph were held on Saturday, Feb. 19 at St. Bartholomew’s Catholic Church. Interment followed at Valley View Cemetery in Mammoth. Griffith Mortuary assisted the family with arrangements.