Born in Corinto, Nicaragua on September 22, 1943, Corporal Mauricio Ronal Palma passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, at the age of 82.

Mauricio came to the United States in 1955 at the age of 12 alongside his mother, Zoila, and younger brother, Luis Ramon Palma. The family settled in Wilmington, California — known as “The Heart of the Harbor.” few years latter they welcomed a little sister Catalina. He attended Gulf Avenue Elementary School beginning in the 6th grade and quickly excelled academically at Wilmington Junior High School. It was there, in 1958 at Machado Pool, that he met the love of his life, Sandee Lee Hasty.

Mauricio later attended Phineas Banning High School, where he played football and was a member of the swim team. He and Sandee were high school sweethearts. After graduating, Mauricio proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and attended boot camp at MCRD San Diego. He was later stationed at Camp Pendleton and served one tour in Vietnam during the war before being honorably discharged.

Following his military service, Mauricio attended California State University, Dominguez Hills, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. Meanwhile, Sandee moved to Washington to pursue nursing, eventually dedicating more than 40 years of her life to caring for others as a nurse — a blessing later in life as she helped care for Mauricio through his illness.

Although life took them in different directions, Mauricio and Sandee never forgot each other. After 39 years apart, Mauricio found Sandee through the Classmates website in 2001. When they reunited, it was as if no time had passed. They married in 2005, spent several years living in the South Bay, and eventually retired together in Apple Valley to enjoy their golden years.

Sadly, on February 20, 2025, Mauricio was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer after experiencing severe abdominal pain. The cancer had already spread to his liver and lungs. He underwent surgery on April 18, 2025, and fought courageously throughout his battle. Despite treatment and chemotherapy, the cancer eventually stopped responding.

Mauricio was hospitalized again on April 18, 2026, and discharged on April 30th. Fifteen days later, he passed away peacefully at home with his beloved wife, Sandee, by his side.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 21 years, his sister, two daughters, and two grandchildren.

Donations will help cover funeral and memorial expenses, remaining medical costs, and provide support for Sandee during this difficult time. Any contribution, prayer, or message of support is deeply appreciated by the family. Visitation will be May 28th from 4-7 at Funeraria Del Angel-Hesperia. Mass is at Holy Family Catholic Church on the 29th at 10 a.m, followed by the burial at Riverside National Cemetery at 1 p.m in Riverside, Ca. We welcome the community join us in paying tribute,showing respect and expressing gratitude for his service to the country.

Thank you for your time

Apple Valley, CA