Rafael C. “Ralph” “Nacho” Vasquez, 99, entered eternal rest at his residence on September 30. Ralph was born July 31, 1921 in El Paso, Texas to Miguel Roman Vasquez and Bernadina Castaneda Vasquez. Ralph is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mary Maldonado Vasquez of the family home; son Rudy Vasquez of Colorado Springs, Colorado; and daughter DeeAnn Kerrut (Mark) of Clearwater, Florida; sister Eva Hernandez (Jim) of Arenas Valley; and Daniel (Frances) of Silver City; five grandchildren, nine great grandchildren, eight great great grandchildren, and countless nieces and nephews. Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, son Frank “Frankie” Vasquez; brothers Rodolfo “Rudy,” George and Mike Jr, and sister Elvira Madrid.

Ralph proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII under Gen. George Patton’s Third Army. He served through France and into Berlin. He served during the crossing of the Rhine and Mosselle Rivers.  After the war, he returned to Grant County. He and his brothers and sister formed The All Veteran’s Band where he played the trumpet, trombone and saxophone. The band was a popular dance band that played The Big Band Era type of music all over New Mexico and into Arizona. He was employed at Phelps-Dodge Tyrone until retirement. Ralph was a carpenter by trade and built numerous homes, one church, cabinets for homes and small pieces of wood furniture. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and the outdoors.  He was a prankster, loved to laugh and have a good time. There will be a private family viewing on Tuesday, October 6 – 8:30-10:30am at Terrazas Funeral Chapel with the Funeral Mass to follow at 11am at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church with Father Oliver Obele officiating. Concluding service, cremation will take place at Terrazas Crematory. Inurnment will be on Wednesday, October 7 at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors. Pallbearers will be Jason Vasquez, Jeff Vasquez, Eddie Madrid, Barney Maldonado, Joe Jaramillo and Randy Maldonado. Honorary pallbearers will be Johnny Maldonado and Joe Jaramillo. Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels and Crematory “Trusted care for the one you love” ~ 575-537-0777.  To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.