We bid farewell to our father, Rafael M. Valderaz, AKA “El Pie” who departed from this world on May 30, 2025 in Lubbock, Texas at the age of 83 years old.

Viewing will be 11:00 am – 6:00 pm. on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at Englunds Chapel, followed by a 6:00 pm visitation. To commemorate his remarkable life and memories we cherish, a service will be held at 10:30 am Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at Englunds Chapel. Interment will follow at Englewood Cemetery in Slaton. Arrangements are by Englunds Funeral Service of Slaton. 

Mr. Valderaz was born on August 16, 1941 in Slaton, Texas, to Geronimo and Tomasa Morales Valderaz.  Mr. Valderaz is proceeded in death by his parents, his first wife Armandina M. Valderaz, his second wife Irma L. Valderaz, three daughters, Maria Falcon, Vicki R. Escobar and Eloysa Ortega, three sons Oscar Falcon, Eloy Deporto and Ben Orosco, five brothers, Manuel, Arnulfo, Frank, Antonio and Ruben Valderaz.

Mr. Valderaz is survived by three sons, Jesse R. Valderaz (Dorothy) of Lubbock, TX, Joe R. Valderaz, Gabirel Orosco of Lovington, NM and Raul Llanez (Yvonne) of Hobbs NM and four daughters Tommie Sanchez (Chris), Velma Valderaz, Vanessa Milbeck (Brandon) of Lubbock, TX and Sylvia O. Aguilar (Alan) of Lovington, NM, two sisters, Maria Najera (Pablo) of Lubbock, TX and Estella Olivas (Lee) of Hobbs, NM, 43 grandchildren and 39 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Pallbearers, Justin R. Valderaz, Jeremy R. Valderaz, Oscar R. Falcon, Sr, Jayln R. Valderaz, Jason R. Valderaz and Joshua R. Valderaz.

Mr. Valderaz was a pillar of strength and a beacon of love, his absence leaves a void in our hearts and leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion and kindness. Mr. Valderaz walked through life with a gentle strength, touching the lives of everyone he encountered with an unforgettable grace. He will be missed immensely.

We welcome all who knew him to join us in celebrating the life of a man who was loved by all his children deeply and will be missed. We love you, Dad.