Richard S. Martinez

Richard S. Martinez, passed away at the age of 56 on Monday, July 28, 2025.

He was preceded in death by his mom Juanita; son Richard; and daughter Jovana.

Richard is survived by his wife Frances; children: Cirilio (Mariah), Casandra, Jolyssa; father Charles; sisters: Carol, Christina; brother Patrick (Jodi); grandchildren: Cirilio II, Gabriel, Sofia, James, Genavive, Isaiah, Elijah, Josiah, Hope; and many nieces and nephews.

Born on June 18, 1969, Richard, or "Rick" as his friends called him, lived a life that was as vibrant and rhythmic as his favorite Beastie Boys tracks. Back in the day, Richard could be found busting a move on the cardboard with a boombox by his side, and while his breakdancing days may have waned, his love for the Beastie Boys never skipped a beat. 

A love of comfort food, Richard was a lasagna-loving, menudo-munching man who knew his way around a kitchen almost as well as a dance floor. His favorite restaurant was Sadies, where he was a local legend, not just for his appetite but for his quick wit and the endless laughter he brought to the table. When he wasn't thinking about his b-boy glory days or savoring his favorite dishes, Richard was the ultimate family man. He cherished watching his grandchildren play sports, cheering the loudest and always ready with a high-five or a joke to lighten the mood. His love for the great outdoors was evident in his passion for camping, vacations, and spending time with his grandkids. 

Richard approached his work with the same love and dedication that he did everything else in his life. His colleagues knew him as the go-to guy for a hearty laugh, a kind word, and a helping hand. Loving, funny, and caring - these weren't just words to describe Rick, they were the essence of his being. He was the man who could find humor in the mundane, a smile during chaos, and a friend in every stranger. His sense of humor was a gift that he shared generously, lighting up rooms and hearts with an ease that seemed almost magical. 

As we bid farewell to Rick, let's not dwell on the silence left in the wake of his laughter but instead find comfort in the countless memories he gave us - memories as delicious as lasagna, as soulful as the Beastie Boys, and as enduring as the time he spent with his grandchildren. 

Rick, you may have taken your final bow, but your music will play on in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know you. Rest in peace, you funky soul.

Rick's Life Celebration will begin with a Visitation on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 6:00 pm at Salazar Mortuary located at 400 Third St. SW, 87102. Rosary will be recited at 7:00pm. Mass will be held on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 10:00am at Shrine of St. Bernadette Catholic Church located at 11509 indian School Rd NE, 87112. Richard will then be laid to rest at Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery located at 924 Menaul Blvd NE, 87107.

Pallbearers will be Cisco, Gabriel, Cirilio, Cirilio II, Bart, and Chris.