Rafael Hernandez Soltero, 52, died Monday, August 17, 2009 at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. He was born on October 24, 1956 in Mexico, the son of Francisco and Carmen(Hernandez) Soltero.

Rafael spent his childhood in Mexico. At the age of 16, he moved to California. In 1986, Rafael moved to Dodge City with his family . He was employed at Crust Buster Speed King, Inc. of Dodge City. He married Marisela Ramos in 1976. Rafael later married Maria Gomez 1999. He enjoyed traveling back to Mexico to visit family and friends. Rafael was a loving father and grandfather.

He was a member of Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe of Dodge City.

Rafael is survived by his wife, Maria Soltero of Dodge City; five sons, Rafael Soltero, Eric Soltero, Benny Soltero, Joan Soltero, and Alan Soltero, all of Dodge City; two daughters, Alexandra Soltero and Iran Soltero both of Dodge City; seven brothers; eight sisters; and eight grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral Mass will be held at the Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Guadalupe, Dodge City, on Monday, August 24, 2009 at 4:00 PM with Rev. Ted Skalsky presiding. Burial will be at a later date in Mexico. Visitation will be at Swaim Funeral Home, Dodge City, on Sunday, August 23, 2009 from noon to 6:00 PM. Vigil service will be held at the Cathedral Of Our Lady Of Guadalupe, Dodge City, on Sunday August 23, 2009 at 7:00 PM. Memorials can be made to Rafael Soltero Memorial Fund in care of the funeral home. Personal Condolences may be left at www.swaimfuneralhome.com.