Rafael Rios

RAFAEL V. RIOS STERLING-Rafael V. Rios, 90, of Sterling, died Tuesday, August 28, 2018 at Regency Care of Sterling. Rafael was born October 24, 1927 in Kansas City KS, the son of Jesus and Angela (Vargas) Rios. He married Dolores Marie Jimenez on May 13, 1950 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Sterling. She preceded him in death on August 30, 1994. Rafael was a World War II Veteran, and member of the VFW. Rafael was a founder, past officer and former Don of the Latin American Social Club. He was a past officer of the United Steelworkers Union Local 63. Rafael was a volunteer chaplain at CGH Medical Center. He ministered to many through prayer groups, music ministry, and was a past ordained Deacon of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Sterling. He loved to spend his time fishing and with his grandchildren. Survivors include three daughters Laura (Rudy) Ortiz of Rockford, Delia (Kevin) Spooner of Rock Falls, Martha Martinez of Rochelle; one son Andrew (Lisa Masters) Rios of Granville; two brothers, Edward (Anne) Rios of Peoria, and Alex (Delores) Rios of Sterling; three sisters, Jessie (Raul) Garza and Louise (Merrill) Baeza both of Sterling and Antonia (Eladio) Valdez of Kansas City; twelve grandchildren, and twenty four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife; one daughter, Lisa Kinnaman; one son, Ralph Rios; one brother, Ismael Rios, and two sisters Margaret Sotelo and Juanita Magon. Mass of the Christian Burial will be held at 10AM Friday August 31, 2018 at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Sterling with Reverend Jorge Bravo, officiating. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery, Sterling with full military rites. Visitation will be 5PM-7:30PM Thursday August 30, 2018 with rosary to be recited at 7PM. There will also be visitation on Friday at St. Mary's Catholic Church from 9AM-10AM prior to the Mass of the Christian Burial. A memorial has been established. Condolences may be sent to www.schillingfuneralhome.com.