Ralph R. Prieto

Ralph "Lito" Prieto passed away peacefully on August 24, 2011. He was surrounded by his loving immediate and extended family as he entered into eternity. Ralph was born in Oxnard, CA on January 1, 1937. He graduated from Santa Paula High School in 1955 then served in the US Army from 1956 to 1958. He married in 1959 and moved his new family to Santa Barbara in 1963. A U.S. Postal Service Employee over a period of 30 years, he also graduated from SBCC, attended UCSB, and when his boys were young, coached countless children at both Harding and McKinley Elementary schools through the Santa Barbara Recreation Dept. Known as "Pops" to many, he will be remembered for his artistic talents, the beautiful fiesta floats that he designed, and helped build, his passion for cymbidium orchids, and his love for his grandchildren. Ralph is survived by Lucy, Jeff and wife Sheryl, Anthony, Julie and husband Charlie, grandchildren, Isaiah, Mychal, Daniel, Moriah, Matthew and Alijah, "adopted" sons John, Ed, Rudy and Corby as well as many loving nephews, nieces, "cuñados", "carnales" and friends. The last year of his life, the Living God manifested His grace and love through the powerful act of forgiveness. The family would like to express their utmost gratitude to the staff of Serenity House for their comforting and compassionate care during our father's last days. A memorial Service will take place in October. For more information, please contact [email protected].