Rafael C. Melendez

Rafael C. Melendez, “Papa” September 23, 1925-October 15, 2010. Our beloved Papa was called to be with Our Lord after losing his battle against illnesses. At the age of 85 he fought bravely to get well and continue on with his “Sweethearts”, but sadly his ailments took over and were too strong. As a young man Rafael was the oldest of 4 boys born to Lucas & Juana Melendez of Valentine, TX. Those who preceded him in death were his Paternal Father Lucas Melendez, Mother Juana Rios, Step-father Cecilio Rios & Brothers Lucas Melendez Jr., Miguel Melendez, and Alejandro Melendez. Rafael worked as a Rail-Roader in Valentine, TX for a short time before meeting the love of his life Luz Saenz. Rafael & Luz were married on July 15, 1950 in Los Fresnos, Chihuahua and have been life-long residents of El Paso, TX since. Rafael leaves behind his Wife Luz S. Melendez, Daughters Priscila & Husband Felix Lozano, Elizabeth & Husband Enrique Barraza, and Son Ralph Jr. & Wife Linda Melendez. He also leaves behind his Grand-daughters Clarissa L. Perez & Great Grand Children Layla & Derek, Victoria D. Lozano who cared for Rafael before his passing, Lucinda L. Hinojosa & Husband Adrian, Grandsons Elias G. Lozano and Promised Angela Amador, Enrique Barraza Jr., Ernesto Barraza, and Brian J. Jaquez & Great Grand Daughter Ava Maria Luz Jaquez. Visitation will held at Sunset Funeral Home, 750 N. Carolina, El Paso, TX on Monday, October 18th from 4:00 – 9:00 pm followed by prayer services at 7:00 pm. Funeral services for Rafael will be held at Wesley Methodist Church, 8001 N. Loop, El Paso, TX on October 19th at 11:00 am followed by interment services at Evergreen East Cemetery, 12400 Montana, El Paso, TX. Our “Sweetheart” is now at peace and in the Lord’s Kingdom. Luz, Priscila, Elizabeth and Ralph Jr. would like to Thank all family & friends for their constant prayers, support and well wishes during this difficult time. We are truly blessed to have you all in our lives. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-East.