by 
Rafiel R. Acosta
Rafiel R. Acosta “Fy” died on Aug. 30, 2017 at the age of 77. He is preceded in death by his brother, Johnny, and parents, Alberto and Aggie Acosta. His light will continue to live in his surviving sibling, Carmen “Mela” Vender, Alberto “Sonny” Acosta, Alejandro “Tater” Acosta, and Frank “Cachi” (Irma) Acosta, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Fy was born on Sept. 4, 1939 and raised in Superior, Arizona. He attended Harding Elementary, and graduated from Superior High School. He enjoyed playing football for 4 years and was on the Superior High team that won the Class B championship in 1954.
He served twice in the Army. In the early 1960s he was stationed in Germany, and in the latter 1960s he enlisted again and battled in the Vietnam conflict. Between tours, and after, he worked in the mines at Magma Copper Company, and later at Kett Engineering Corporation as a test driver for General Motors.
Rafiel, a very private man, preferred to live alone. He relied on the company of his brothers and nephew, Alejandro, who brought life and laughter into his home.
Rosary and funeral services will be held on Thursday, Sept. 7, at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Superior, Arizona. Viewing at 9 a.m., Rosary at 9:30 a.m., and Mass at 10 a.m. Interment at Fairview Cemetery in Superior and a reception at Los Hermanos in Superior will follow.
Superior Funeral Home is providing exceptional family service. 379 Ray Rd., Superior, AZ 85173. Ph. (520) 689-2692. SuperiorFuneral.com.
There are news or informational items frequently written by staff or submitted to the Copper Basin News, San Manuel Miner, Superior Sun, Pinal Nugget or Oracle Towne Crier for inclusion in our print or digital products. These items are not credited with an author.
by by