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- Rafael Erquiaga passed away on May 27, 2007, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born May 4, 1928, to Maria Visitation (Goitiandia) and Rufino Erquiaga in Bizkaia, Spain. He immigrated to the United States in 1954 to work as a sheepherder before pursuing a career in mining. He became a U.S. citizen in 1960 and returned to Euzkal Herria to marry the love of his life, Felipa Uriguen. The newlywed couple came to the United States on June 21, 1961, to begin their new lives together.
After mining in Getchell and Lovelock, Rafael planted his roots in Battle Mountain, working for Battle Mountain Gold Company for 26 years. Retiring in 1993, he loved to fish, garden, tend his grapevines and make Basque wine (txakolin). Above all, he enjoyed spending time with his family. His life was outstanding example of a strong work ethic, filled with integrity and devotion to family.
Rafael is survived by Felipa, his wife of 46 years, son Ralph (wife Lois) of Battle Mountain; daughters Angie Hernandez (husband Robert), Mary Stanley Romero (husband Gary) of Reno. He was so happy to be the “World’s Greatest Aitxitxe” to Hannah Erquiaga and Jayson Cutler of Battle Mountain, as well as Amaia Stanley, Jason, Ryan and Jamie Romero of Reno.
He is survived by brothers Antonio, Joaquin and Ramon, sisters Martina and Miren of Euzkal Herria and brother Eusebio of Battle Mountain. He is also survived by numerous cousins in northern Nevada.
He is preceded in death by his parents, brothers Felix and Jose Maria and sister Natividad.
A rosary was held at St. John Bosco Catholic Church in Battle Mountain on Thursday, May 31, at 7 p.m., with funeral services Friday, June 1, at 10 a.m. Arrangements are entrusted to Albertson Funeral Home of Winnemucca.
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1928 - 2007 (79 years)
