Ralph Rivas Armas

It is with great sadness to announce the sudden passing of Ralph Rivas Armas (Ralphy).  God called him home on August 3rd, 2018 after battling a long term illness.  Ralphy was born on July 16th, 1971 in Oxnard, California.  He was raised in San Diego, California in a fun loving family environment enjoying camping, lake trips and family outings.  Ralphy attended St Jude Academy Middle School from kindergarten through 8th grade.  He graduated with Honors from Point Loma High School.  Ralphy also served as an altar boy at St. Jude Shrine.  He was highly intelligent and enjoyed reading books, listening to music, and was quite intrigued with the production of movies after seeing STAR WARS with his aunt Rosie Rojas (Armas).  He was a jokester, affectionate and friendly person who could converse with anyone on any subject without hesitation.

Ralphy was raised by his paternal grandparents, following the unexpected death of his mother two days after his birth.  They raised him as their son along with their twelve children who loved, cared and considered Ralphy a brother. 

Ralphy loved visiting Oxnard so he could spend time with his maternal grandparents, Augustine and Anita Rivas, aunts, siblings and numerous cousins.  He particularly enjoyed attending family celebrations. 

Ralphy is survived by his brother Peter Zuniga (Alicia), sisters Annie Zuniga, Ria Benton, Tanya Armas, Daisy Armas, Gina Marsh and extended family members.  He was predeceased by his parents, Ralph and Emma Armas, grandparents, Ramon and Silvina Armas and Augustine and Anita Rivas. 

The family would like to express our gratitude and appreciation to Ralphy’s grandparents for their selfless commitment to lovingly care and support him following the passing of his mother.  Their compassion and high family values are an inspiration.  The Rivas family would like to express a heartfelt “Thank You” to the entire Armas family for being there for Ralphy.  

We know in our heart that his parents have greeted their son with open arms and much love in heaven.  God bless you Ralphy.  We miss you and will forever hold our memories in our hearts.