Ralph E. Amparano

Ralph Amparano, 83, passed away on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at his home in Amarillo, surrounded by his family. Ralph was born on December 26, 1942, in Yuma, Arizona, to Catalina and Ernest Amparano. 

He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged. During this time, he met the mother of his children and the love of his life, “Miss Gillean.” In 1968, he took Miss Ruby Gillean to the Little White Chapel in Las Vegas, Nevada, and married her. Together, they built a beautiful life in Amarillo, Texas, where they raised their three beautiful children and shared more than five decades of love and devotion. 

Ralph worked for many years as a welder in the oil and energy industry across Texas and Louisiana before later joining the City of Amarillo Street Department. He spent countless hours working to help keep the streets clean so he could be home every day with his family. He worked for the City of Amarillo until 2014 and was known by his colleagues for his tireless energy. 

He loved staying active and enjoying the simple things in life. When he was not working, he could be found in his garage working on his 1979 Camaro, or in his man cave, where he kept many of his most prized possessions and memorials of his loved ones. He enjoyed bicycling, working out, and visiting the junkyard in search of parts and collectibles. 

Ralph’s heart belonged to his family. His greatest joy was watching his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow and being present for the moments that mattered most. 

He is survived by his daughters, Angela Jack (Steven) and Jennifer Amparano; his daughter-in-law, Benita Amparano; his six grandchildren, Jenna Amparano, Noah Amparano, John Amparano Jr., Chloe Arreola, Luis Arreola (Monica), and Ashley Jack; his four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ruby Gillean Amparano; his son, John Amparano, Sr.; his parents, Catalina and Ernest Amparano; his In-laws, John and Mildred Gillean

Ralph will be remembered for his hard work and his fiery spirit that strengthened everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.