Ramon “Ray” “Pelon” passed away on Thursday, January 13, 2022, with family by his bedside.
He was the eldest of six siblings: Hermanahildo “Ernie”, Francisa “Frances”, Mary ”Necho”,
Jose “Jopey”, and belated Gavina “Chata” and John. He and his former spouse (Bessie Murillo)
parented ten children: Katherine, Patricia, Brenda (Bart) Tesoriero, Janet, Vincent (Greg) Lopez,
Marcia, Matthew, Rose, Lucinda(Rebecca), and belated John. And he was a proud “Tata” of 13
grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren.

Ray was born and raised in the metropolis city of its time in Tolleson, AZ.  He attended Tolleson
Union High School excelling in sports and academics.  He coached in many community team
sports and emboldened the importance of good sportsmanship. Professionally, he worked as an
accomplished A/C and sheet metal tradesman.  
 
As an extravert, he created immediate and long-lasting friendships.  His charming personality
was defined by his infectious smile and sense of humor.  This was carried into his social life,
where he loved to dance and hosts lively parties.  He volunteered and participated in community
events that raised its consciousness of equality and social justice.  He was inspired by his mentor
and acquaintance, Cesar Chavez.
 
Finally, as a father, he was a family man.  He supported his children to pursue and excel
scholastically, athletically, musically, and artistically.  His legacy will be that he wanted to
expose his children to a better life filled with more opportunities than what he experienced in
life.

The viewing is from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. and services at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 8,
2022, at the Avendias Funeral Chapel.