In Loving Memory
Richard “Ritchie” Vargas
Richard “Ritchie” Vargas died peacefully and surrounded by family on Monday, October 5, 2020 in Albuquerque, NM at the age of 73.
Ritchie is survived by his ex-wife, Dottie Vargas; children Jenny (Lorenzo), Joey (Heidi), Brian (Jean), Elizabeth (David), and Stacey; grandkids, Gabriel, Analicia, Diego, Isabella, Wyatt, Mason, Adrian, Landon, and Julian; siblings, Patsy, Debbie, Rita, Marty (Cara), Lawrence (Terry); many nieces, nephews and extended family; life-long friends Sal & Ester Baca and Art Reust. He is preceded in death by his parents, David & Mary Vargas; siblings, Sonny, Tony, and Michael; nephews Lawrence Charles, Shawn, David Shawn, and Charles; niece Monica.
Richard was born on December 13, 1946 in Albuquerque, NM. He graduated from University of Albuquerque with a degree in Political Science. He married Dottie in 1969. Over 35 years of marriage, the couple welcomed 5 children into their home. His children remember him as a feisty, strong-willed and a loving father/grandfather who encouraged them to pursue their goals and never take no for an answer.
In 1965, he enlisted in the US Navy. After his time in the Navy, he became a licensed beautician and soon after, opened his own salon called Three Fountains. Richard eventually decided to go back to school to pursue a career in business. As a young man, he was an active member of the Albuquerque Optimist Club. He was accomplished at negotiating purchasing contracts and had a successful career at Digital Equipment Corp in Albuquerque and Next Level Communications in Rohnert Park, CA. He had a passion for good food, good company and Motown music. On most Saturdays you could find him and his life-long friend Art perusing the flea market. He was both generous and dedicated to his family and loved visiting Disneyland and San Diego.
The family would like to thank Father Graham of St. Augustine Church, Dr. Doug Hucke of Sandia Presbyterian Church, Avamere at Fiesta Park, The Village at Alameda, and Kindred Hospice for their dedication to Richard’s care.
Richard will be buried at Santa Fe National Cemetery with full Navy honors in a private ceremony.
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Celebration of Life
Friday, October 16
4:00 PM Mountain Time
All are welcome to participate in celebrating Ritchie’s life. Information on how to join the ceremony is below.
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My condolences to my VARGAS FAMILY as we all are mourning the loss of our loved one…thank you Richard for our late night talks when neither of us could sleep…may the perpetual light shine upon you…You have your Angel wings fly high cousin fly high.love you unil we meet again♡!!!
From the Silva’s, Margo, Helen, Liz, and Michael. We will always remember your laughter, your friendship, down to earth attitude, you were young when you visited and you remained young at heart, and you will eternally always be young. Your friendship will always be ours to keep. Rest In Peace My Friend
I am so sorry for your loss.You and your family are in my prayers.
The Vargas Family, Sandra and I sadden to hear of your lose. May your Family find solace and Peace in the Times they spent their Lives with Richard.
Richard was the best dancer @ Albuquerque High School. We were friends and danced our legs off at any place where there was music. Will never forget him
and the fun times…..
Keeping you all in our prayers. We are so sorry for your loss. May you remember all the wonderful times you shared with your father always.