Ray Apodaca Obituary

Ramon Apodaca, 83, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2025, surrounded by his large and loving family. Known as "Ray" or "Aleman", Ray had a bigger than life presence and was well-regarded throughout our community.
The second child of Benito and Josie, Ray arrived on August 31, 1941, joining his older sister Mary. Four more siblings followed the next few years – Irene, Jeni, Pat, and Melvin. Ray grew up in "Old Morenci" in the 1950s. Ray was known to be a Marble Shooting Champion in the neighborhood. He had his bag of "special marbles" he would carry around. His sister Mary described him as forever the comedian, who loved to dance and make his family laugh. He was good at baseball and basketball. Summers were spent at their grandparents' ranch in Apache Creek, New Mexico. He graduated from Albuquerque High School in New Mexico. Ray enlisted twice in the Marine Corps, and he served his country during the Vietnam War. Lance Corporal Ramon Apodaca received the prestigious Silver Star Medal for his gallantry in action in 1968. Two weeks ago, he was recognized for his heroic efforts as a Grand Marshal in the local Independence Day Parade with his proud family following behind.
Ray's civic pride was always first and foremost. He spent his life helping others succeed. He worked tirelessly on the San Carlos Apache Reservation providing life skills services through his own company. He was the Solomon American Legion Commander for over 15 years. He also served on the Solomon School Board, and a community park was developed due to his efforts. He was a proud member of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Solomon.
Ray enjoyed life, his friends, and especially his family. Ray was married to his beautiful bride, Dolores, for 57 years. He often said when he met her, he knew he was hooked. Their love story was admired in their family as they were so adorable together. They married in Hawaii in 1968 while he was on leave from the military. He then returned to Vietnam to finish his tour. They later married through the Catholic Church as well. A huge 50th anniversary celebration in their honor was held in 2018, celebrating their love with family and close friends.
Ray and Dolores were blessed with six children – Drice, Benny, Alejandro, Desiree, Gabriel, and Armando. One son-in-law, five daughters-in-law, and over 50 grandchildren and great grandchildren have joined their family. Ray always welcomed every new member into the family with love and acceptance, often greeting his lovely girls with "Why are you so beautiful?".
The Apodaca children fondly remember a childhood spent going to the drive-in, taking trips to the mountains, and playing in the river. Rifles and swords were made from wood. Bread and bologna sandwiches were always a staple on road trips and front yard family picnics. Life was simple and the family enjoyed being together. Music was always playing, and Ray was always dancing to his favorite Spanish songs. As the kids got older, they enjoyed going shooting and hunting with Ray. They recalled him being able to fix anything and him having a Scooby Doo van, followed by his beloved Toyota truck. All of Ray's children have nicknames that have carried them into adulthood. However, when they were called "Tomato Head", they knew they were in trouble, which often meant cleaning the yard for hours.
Ray affectionately became "Dedo" when the first grandchild, John, couldn't say Abuelo. Dolores became "Wela" as well for Abuela. All his grandchildren and great grandchildren followed with these nicknames with everyone loving to go to Dedo and Wela's house. As their family grew, parties, school events, graduations, and family occasions filled their time. Ray and Dolores were always so supportive of their large extended family, never missing an activity. At the memorable age of 78, Ray became a graduate of Eastern Arizona College! In May 2025, he got to support his fourth grandchild, Miana, graduating from his alma mater as well and he was so proud.
Ray is preceded in death by: his parents, Benito Apodaca and Josie Anaya Dietz; his brother-in-law, Candy; and his nephew, Damian. He leaves behind: his siblings, Mary (Candy), Irene, Jeni, Pat (MaryLou), and Melvin (Elaine) and their families. He will be remembered forever by: his beautiful bride he adored, Dolores Apodaca, and his six children: Drice Ann, Benny (LeChelle), Alejandro (Kristi), Desiree (Jimmy), Gabriel (Mary), and Armando (Jenipher), as well as over 50 grandchildren and great-grandchildren who love their "Dedo".
A Mass of Christian Burial for Ray will be celebrated Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Solomon by Rev. Nicodemus Shaghel. Committal with military honors conferred by the United States Marine Corps Honor Detail will follow in the Safford Cemetery.
A Rosary and prayers will be offered Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., also at the church.
The family will receive friends Monday evening, July 21, 2025, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Vining Funeral Home's "Chapel of the Valley". To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ray, please visit our floral store.