Richard R. Gallegos

Richard was born the youngest of his siblings in Deming, New Mexico on May 6, 1932. Upon graduating high school, he served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War and was awarded a National Defense Service Medal. While in the service, he was afflicted by polio which left him paralyzed from the waist down. With strenuous therapy he regained the use of his legs, although they were left quite weakened; his right needing a brace forever more. After serving his country, he worked as a Mathematician at White Sands Missile Range for over 35 years. In his early sixties he was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease, which slowly took his mobility over the years but never his will. He enjoyed music and often listened to big band, swing and jazz artists of his era and of recent times. He was a quiet reserved man, only talking when needed, and had a subtle sarcastic humor that due to his tranquil demeanor was often unexpected and sure to put a smile on your face. The love and care that he gave his loved ones was beyond words and although he will be tremendously missed, we know that he is now free, happy and at peace with our Lord.

Richard is survived by his wife Maria; daughter, Julia Cynthia and her husband Jorge Espino; grandchildren, Jorge Andres, Ricardo Valentin Alonso and Benicio Alessandro Espino; and brother, Alfred R. Gallegos. He was preceded in death by his parents, Julia de la Rosa and Jose Gallegos; his sisters, Helen Lara and Ruth Schenk; and his brothers, Ismael, Antonio J., Valentin and Jose R. Gallegos.

Visitation will be held from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, March 23, 2014 with a Vigil at 6:00 p.m. at Funeraria Del Angel Martin Central. Funeral Mass will be 12:45 p.m. Monday, March 24, 2014 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Interment following at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery.