Rigoberto Rico

Rigoberto Rico was an exceptional husband and father. Born July 27, 1964 to Alfredo and Maria Rico in the small town of Jeruco, Michoacan, Rigoberto came to Santa Paula, CA at age 16. His dreams were like those of so many. He dreamed of a new start and starting his own family. In 1986 he married Norma Aspera, and together, they fulfilled his dream. Rigoberto’s family grew in 1987, 1989, and 1991 with the birth of his three sons: Armando, Rigoberto Jr., and Ricardo.

A citizen of Ventura County for over 32 years, Rigoberto was an arduous worker. His dedication to the agricultural industry was extraordinary. Rigoberto’s knowledge of agriculture was only exceeded by his love for the same. The orchards of Santa Paula were like his children. But after working in the industry for over 26 years, Rigoberto’s health forced him to change his work setting. Despite this, Rigoberto still found a way to stay connected to his beloved orchards. He worked at Limoneira Company from 2006 to 2012.

Despite the challenges life continually threw at him, Rigoberto’s spirit never wavered. His commitment to his family and friends, and his passion for life defied the expectations of medicine time and again. Even in the days before his death, Rigoberto, never submitted to sorrow; he smiled and laughed. He understood the meaning of life, he appreciated and cherished every moment, he was Rigoberto Rico, a man who loved with no restraint and was loved just the same.

Rigoberto passed September 7, 2012 in Ventura, CA. His services will be held September 11, 2012 at Skillin-Carroll Mortuary in Santa Paula, from 5-8pm. Funeral Mass to be held September 12, 2012; at 10:00am at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Graveside to follow at Pierce Brothers Santa Paula Cemetery. Services have been entrusted to Skillin-Carroll Mortuary 738 E. Santa Paula St, Santa Paula, CA.

- Armando Rico