Richard Larenz Velasquez

Richard Velasquez, 81 years young, of Fruitland, NM, went home on Saturday, February 20, 2016. Richard was born on September 14, 1934, to Jose and Margarita (Valdez) Velasquez in McPhee, Colo. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the US Marines and severed his country honorably. Richard worked and retired from Coca Cola, where he was known by many as "The Coke Man". After retirement, Richard relaxed working as a full time car salesman, where he became the number one car salesman for Gabaldon. After his reining career in car sales he went to work for Navajo Amusement, where he currently worked. One of Richard's favorite places to go was Sanchos Restaurant, where he ate twice a day! He loved to treat his great-grandkids to happy meals every week, while he glowed with pride watching them play. He loved to go hunting and shoot pool. For those of you who had the privilege of knowing him, you know he was truly one of a kind. He had a heart of gold and a contagious smile that lit up any room. His never ending humor and words of wisdom will be forever remembered.

He is survived by his partner Kathleen (Kay) White; nine children: son Rudy, daughter Juanita (Ray), daughter Suzanne, son Michael (Rachel), son Joseph (Niki), daughter Bobbi (Cory), son Steve (Debbie), son Charlie, son Craig (Kim); ten granddaughters; six grandsons; twenty-one great-grandchildren (with one on the way); sisters Tita (Jim) and Juanita; brothers Arthur (Ann) and Manuel (Dorothy); numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends whom he considered family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a son Filbert Velasquez, 2 bothers, Julio and Willie and 2 sisters, Margie and Bernie.

Rosary will be held on Thursday, February 25, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 am on Friday, February 26th, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Farmington, NM. Interment will follow in the Kirtland Cemetery with full military honors.

Richard's care is entrusted to the Brewer, Lee and Larkin Funeral Home, 103 E. Ute St. in Farmington, 505-325-8688.