
“He built things that last, and he loved people the same way.”
Rafael Antonio Delgado
February 22, 1957 - June 27, 2026 (69 years old)
Born on February 22, 1957 in Nogales, Arizona
Passed away on June 27, 2026 in Tucson, Arizona

“He built things that last, and he loved people the same way.”
February 22, 1957 - June 27, 2026 (69 years old)
Born on February 22, 1957 in Nogales, Arizona
Passed away on June 27, 2026 in Tucson, Arizona
About
Rafael Antonio Delgado was born in Nogales, Arizona, and moved north to Tucson at nineteen with a borrowed toolbox and no particular plan. He spent the next forty-seven years framing houses, hanging doors, and building staircases that people still stop to run their hands along.
He founded Delgado & Sons Construction in 1989 and ran it the old way: a handshake, a fair price, and a phone that he answered himself on Sundays. He was famous in three neighbourhoods for showing up with a truck and a level whenever anyone needed either.
At home he grew bougainvillea he swore he never watered, told the same four jokes for forty years, and presided over Sunday menudo on a back patio he built himself, one board at a time.
Quick Facts
Favorite Quote
Measure twice, cut once, and then go help your neighbour.
— Rafael, to anyone who would listen
Known For
Favorites
Important Dates