Victor - Ravago

Victor Ravago, age 87, died Oct 2nd 2018 in Escondido, CA. He was born in El Monte, California on February 14th 1931. His wife Jackie Ravago preceded him in death, as did his siblings Beatrice Cascioppo, Lawrence Ravago, Raul Ravago, Alexander (Mickey) Ravago, and Olivia Abbott. Victor Ravago is survived by his step children Fawn and Nanette, sisters Ruth Tuomi of Escondido, Jeannie Long of South Dakota and brother, Larry (Skidro) Ravago of Arizona. He will be missed by countless nephews and nieces too long to list.

Victor Ravago began a long and faithful military career with the United States Army beginning in 1946 at the young age of 15.  It took the military a little over a year to figure out he’d lied about his age and he was discharged only to reenlist in 1947 for 4 years and again in 1953. Staff Sergeant Ravago attained his grade on September 1st 1966 and retired in 1968. He served the United States Army faithfully, boldly and fearlessly for 20 years fighting in WWII, Korean and Vietnam wars. He served in the United States and overseas as Squad Leader, Company H, 12th Infantry Regiment, Germany; Assistant Squad Leader, Combat Support Company, 2nd Brigade, 12th Cavalry, Korea; Scout Driver, Headquarters Company, 1st Medium Tank Battalion, 34th Armor, Fort Lewis, Washington. At his time of retirement, Staff Sergeant Ravago served as Assistant Platoon Sergeant, Troop D, 1st Reconnaissance Squadron, 2nd Training Brigade, US Army Training Center, Armor, Fort Knox, Kentucky. Victor Ravago was a distinguished member of the La Société des Quarante Hommes et Huit Chevaux- the Forty and Eight. He also served on the Black Horse Association of the 11th Cavalry.

Staff Sergeant Ravago’s list of outstanding awards and metals are numerous as they include Air Medal with Four Oak Leaf Clusters and “V” Device, Purple Heart, Good Conduct Metal, World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal (Japan and Germany), National Defense Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Korean Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Service Star, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device (1960), United Nations Service Medal, Presidential Unit Citation (Army) with Three Oak Leaf Clusters and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.

“Uncle Victor” or “Uncle Tito” was a colorful, outspoken character. Any one of his beloved nephews or nieces can share fond stories of him and their times together. His humble beginnings during the depression often found him shining shoes or collecting scraps from the butcher shop to help his family. This no doubt aided his incredible survivor skills while being shot down in Vietnam or MIA in Korea. He looked forward to being around his nephews from Pala and enjoyed his weekend excursions at the casino wreaking havoc. A well-known figure at the American Legion, he appreciated spending time with his friends. Victor loved watching old western movies and was very proud of his DVD and VHS collection. On holidays he’d pass out pounds of fruit cake, steaks and meat and cheese crudité from Omaha Steaks to his friends and family. Anyone who knows any of them- have shared in the bounty. Victor Ravago will be remembered and celebrated by his family for generations to come. His love, stories, service and heroism will not soon be forgotten.

Celebrations for Victor Ravago will take place in Escondido Friday, October 26 at 11:30 am at Oak Hill Cemetery. A potluck reception will follow at the Escondido American Legion JB Clark Post 149, Park Place from 1-5pm.

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