Longtime Costilla County resident Ralph J. Maestas, 84, passed away on July 18, 2014 at St. Mary Corwin Hospital in Pueblo, Colorado. He was born on September 27, 1929 to Juan and Evarista Maestas in San Pablo, Colorado. Once Ralph was old enough, he joined the United States Army and served his country honorably during the Korean Conflict. While in the service Ralph was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. Following his discharge from the military, Ralph returned home to farm and ranch in San Pablo. On September 6, 1953 he married Genevieve Garcia in San Luis, Colorado. She stood by his side as a supporter and companion for 61 years. Ralph was a member of Most Precious Blood Catholic Church in San Luis, Knights of Columbus #2620, The American Legion as well as member of the Sociedad Piadosa de Nuestro Señor Jesús Nazareno He enjoyed farming and ranching, but most importantly spending time with is family. Ralph is survived by his wife Genevieve Maestas of San Pablo, his children; Theresa (Charles) Chavez of Blanca, Phyllis Maestas of San Pablo, Raphael J. (Rae Jean) Maestas of San Pablo and Kristie (Marco) Celada of Broomfield, Colorado, his grandchildren; Desiree (John) Naranjo, Warren Chavez, Curtis Chavez, Russell Maestas, Ryan Maestas and Devin Maestas, his great grandchildren; Jonathan Naranjo, Ryland Naranjo, Kayden Chavez and Mauricio Chavez, his siblings; Ruben Maestas, Paul Maestas, Amos Maestas, Mercy Martinez, Leva Gonzales, Rose Gallegos, Lita Martinez, and Lydia Taylor as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings; Elizar Maestas, Adam Maestas, Maclovia Archuleta, Ignacita Martinez, Dorothy Martinez and Phil Maestas. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday July 22, 2014 at Most Precious Blood Catholic Church in San Luis. Rosaries were held on Sunday July 20th and Monday July 21st also at the church. Interment will follow the services in the San Isidro Cemetery in San Pablo. Contributions are suggested to UCC Union Cooperativa Constitucional and may be made in care of the funeral home office.

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