Dionicio Rangel was born on October 9, 1930 in Demin, New Mexico to Esteban and Juana Rangel. He spent the first 14 years of his life in Romita, Guanajuato, Mexico. At the young age of 15 Dionicio, along with his brother Guadalupe came back to the United States to work in order to help support their parents and brothers and sisters. Dionicio met Esperanza Guzman in 1948 they married 7 years later. They recently marked their 55th wedding anniversary; the marriage produced six children; Antonio, Elva, Jorge (deceased), Arturo, Enrique, and Eduardo and blessed with 15 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren who lovingly knew him as Papa Nicho. Dionicio Rangel will forever live in our hearts. He left us with many memories and sound advice which will continue to guide us. "May you rest in peace." From 1955 to 1965 the Rangel family lived in DiGeorgio Camp. A hard working farm laborer, Dionicio provided for his family and in 1965 he purchased his home in Arvin, California. In 1967 he became an active member of the United Farm Workers Union and marched along side Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta. A man with a big heart, Dionicio did not hesitate to offer a helping hand to those in need. He had a large circle of friends and look forward to gathering at the local bakery to enjoy a cup of coffee with his friends as they shared life stories. A graveside service was held for Dionicio Rangel, age 79 of Arvin, Friday, April 16, 2010 at Greenlawn Cemetery Southwest. Arvin Funeral Home hosted a visitation Thursday, April 15, 2010.