Raul Jose Delgadillo, age 72, of Santa Maria passed away unexpectedly Feb. 21, 2025.

Raul was born on Nov. 26, 1952 to William and Henrietta Delgadillo where he grew up in Airport Circle and Evans Park.

Raul attended local schools and graduated from Santa Maria High School with the Class of 1970.

While in high school, Raul joined the FFA, where he enjoyed and excelled at raising chickens, cattle and pigs. His passion for his farm animals had him up at early morning hours when he would walk to go feed the animals before heading to school.

He showed his animals at the Santa Barbara County Fair where he often took first place prizes.

After graduating, Raul was employed by Sunrise Growers for more than 40 years as a maintenance mechanic until his retirement in 2015. He was a San Francisco Giants and 49ers fan.

Raul was always ready to barbecue for any occasion and took pleasure in knowing his family enjoyed his barbecue. He was a great barbecuer, and made some of the best ribs, chicken and tri-tip.

Raul was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother. He will be missed and remembered for his generosity.

Raul is survived by his daughter Erica (Sonny); grandson Brandon; granddaughter Ella; brother William (Genevieve) Delgadillo Jr.; sisters Pearl (Henry) Morin, Esther (Joe) Nunez, and Lydia Mora; aunts Mary Beltran, Ruth Ortiz, Margaret Leon, Anita Estrada; his faithful companion Chevy; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Raul is preceded in death by his wife Lupita Medina Delgadillo; and parents William and Henrietta Delgadillo.

To leave a condolence for the family, visit www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com.