Ralph Jean Candelaria

Ralph Jean Candelaria passed away on Saturday June 7, 2024, in Lakewood. He was 76.

Born on December 6, 1948, Ralph was the third of six brothers born to Edward Candelaria and Delia Candelaria. A rebellious child, he found boxing, running, and other sports as a positive outlet for his energy. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the Army and served four years, including one year in Vietnam. During his service, he earned the Army Commendation Medal for professionalism and efficiency. After leaving the Army, Ralph found a strong commitment to personal responsibility. He married Lucinda and the two of them worked their way through college while raising their three children: Matthew, Zoey, and Linus.

After earning his degree in accounting from Metropolitan State College, Ralph worked for the State of Colorado for several years before taking a hiatus. During this time, he delivered newspapers and worked for Jefferson County Open Space. When he was ready, he returned to accounting for the City and County of Denver, where he worked until retiring.

Throughout his life, Ralph remained a very active person. He played tennis regularly for many years with his good friends and often ran races. From 5k to marathons, Ralph enjoyed running. He passed on this love to two of his children, who often participated in races with him. Many of his nieces, nephews, and grandchildren joined him, too. His easygoing and welcoming personality made a run into a pleasant gathering. He also loved to fish, and his high success rate meant that he often stunk up the house with his catches.

Family mattered to Ralph, and he always showed up for family events when he was well. He had a deep love for his brothers, and he treated their children as his own, offering help and support. Whenever anyone in his family had a need, he would not hesitate to offer what assistance he could.

Ralph had an eclectic taste in culture. Most of his favorite books were written before he was born, and he was a big supporter of opera, attending numerous seasons of the Central City Opera.

Although he enjoyed his solitary time, he will always be remembered as a loving Father, Grandfather, Brother, and Uncle. He served as a powerful inspiration to his entire family, and his often quiet but jovial presence will be missed.

Ralph is survived by son Matthew (Tracy) Candelaria, daughter Zoey (Tony) Manguso, son Linus (Yoshiko) Candelaria; grandchildren Ezra, Arthur, Kayla, Conner, Maya, Quentina, Raynor; great-grandchildren Maisie, Emmett, and Hudson; brothers Anthony (Sherry), Charles, and Ray. He is preceded in death by Father Edward Candelaria and Mother Delia Candelaria; ex-wife Lucinda Ridley; brothers Edward Candelaria Jr. and Joseph Candelaria.

A memorial service will be held at Newcomer funeral home at 901 S. Sheridan in Lakewood, CO 80232 on Monday June 30, 2025 at 9:30AM with burial following at Ft. Logan National Cemetery at 11:30 AM. There will be a short memorial run for those who wish to participate, and the family invites everyone to enjoy a meal at Matthew’s home.