Rafael "Ralph" Villanueva Salce, Jr.

Rafael Villanueva Salce, Jr., 76, passed away Friday, September 10, 2021 at his home in Springerville. He was born November 13, 1944 in Santa Rita, New Mexico the son of Rafael G. Salce, Sr. and Francisca Villanueva.

Ralph and Mary have been married for 56 years. He spent most of his career as an electrical lineman and served in the New Mexico and Arizona Army National Guard.

Ralph was active in his church as a Knights of Columbus 4^th Degree Knight, Eucharistic Minister, Catechist and Retreat Leader. He was involved in the little league as a coach and president and was very involved in the Boy Scouts of America and the American Legion.

Ralph was a proud father and even more proud of his grandchildren, Isabel, Katie and Matthew.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Mary C. Salce, Springerville; sons, Michael Salce, Gilbert; Domonic Salce, Gilbert; sisters, Gloria Montoya, Olga Chavez, Amanda Terran, Belma Burns, Yolanda Salce and 3 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Sylvia Moore and brother, Jessie Salce.

A viewing will be held Tuesday, September 14, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Springerville, followed by Rosary at 7:00 p.m. A funeral Mass will be held Wednesday, September 15, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. also at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Springerville. Interment will follow the funeral Mass at the Springerville Cemetery.