Ralph Bustillos Ulate

April 4, 1939 - October 21, 2020

Resident of Sunnyvale



Born in Mountain View and a resident of Sunnyvale since 1950, Ralph Ulate lived to take care of others. Often described as a "true gentleman," he spoke softly and was known for surreptitious acts of kindness that let family and friends know "Ralph was here." Sweeping a driveway. Moving a newspaper onto a neighbor's porch. Dropping off fruits and vegetables from his garden. He will be remembered most for his generous heart. A man of routine, Ralph loved the San Francisco Giants and 49ers, Dancing with the Stars, driving around in his bright green VW Bug, spending hours working in his yard, indulging his sweet tooth and, occasionally, enjoying "a good Pinot Noir." He regularly—as recently as last week—rode his bicycle to St. Cyprian Church, where in 1971 he was married to Leocadia and where his two sons were altar boys. Ralph worked for Santa Clara County as a court clerk for 46 years, which allowed him to provide for his family, the center of his world. Ralph was 81 when he passed away at home the evening of October 21. He is survived by his loving sons Rafael (married to Jody) and David, his siblings, nieces and nephews, and many cherished friends. He was predeceased by his wife Leocadia (1935-2010). Due to COVID-19 restrictions, a private funeral mass will be streamed live Friday, October 30 at 10 a.m. athttps://www.facebook.com/SaintCyp.svl/. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in his name to St. Cyprian Church in Sunnyvale.