PINTO, RALPH

Ralph Pinto Sr., a Ridgecrest resident since 1947, left this life peacefully on Saturday, Aug. 21, 2010. He was 86.

He was born in Nenahnezad, N.M., on Dec. 24, 1924. Ralph was a WWII Marine Veteran, 4th Marine Raiders (Navajo Code Talker). He participated in actions in the Asiatic-Pacific Islands to the occupation of Japan, 1943 to 1945. He is a certified member of the United States Marine Raider Association. He was employed at the Naval Weapons Center, China Lake for 30 years.

Ralph was one of the original members of the China Lake Golf Club. He golfed until his health hindered him. He also loved to fish the streams and lakes of the Eastern Sierras.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wonderful wife of 63 years, Gladys; loving son, Daniel; sisters, Julia, Ada, and Fern.

He is survived by his sons, Herbert of Ridgecrest; Ralph Jr. of Inyokern; daughter, Gayle of Ridgecrest; grandson, Michael of Reno, Nev.; sister, Laura of Bellflower; Rosie and Eva of Fruitland, N.M.

A viewing will be held Monday, Aug. 30 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the H.K. Holland Memorial Chapel. A memorial service is set for Tuesday, Aug. 31 at 11 a.m. at the H.K. Holland Memorial Chapel. Burial will be at Desert Memorial Park.

Arrangements provided by Holland & Lyons Mortuary. Media information provided by the family.