Ricardo Vela

Ricardo was born in Laredo, TX to parents Baldemar and Maria Flores Vela on August 25, 1949.

He graduated from Laredo Martin High School, and joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1968, where he served two tours in the Vietnam War. He was awarded two Silver Star Medals for Heroic and Self Sacrificing acts. He wouldn't ever speak of it, but he saved the lives of numerous battlefield brothers during his tours of War. He then proceeded to work as a civil servant, earning his certification as a Fire Firefighter assigned to Camp Pendleton Marine Base, Oceanside, CA where he served for 13 years. His life-saving duties and selfless public service was commendable. Eventually moving to San Antonio, he became a specialist in Laboratory of Quarry Operations, where he served as Lab Specialist for 18 years.

Ricardo is preceded in death by his father, Baldemar Vela, mother, Maria F. Vela, younger sister Wanda Castillo, younger brother Raul Vela, oldest brother Baldemar Jr. Vela, and oldest sister Bertha Medina.

Ricardo is survived by son, Ricardo Jr. and wife Julia, daughter Sohnia, son Ricky and wife Gina and son Gabriel and wife Leticia. With 12 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. His overwhelming love for his grand and great grandchildren was immeasurable. Ricardo is also survived by brother Oscar and wife Delia, brother Ruben and wife Nellie, brother Javier and wife Laura, sister Veronica Davila and sister Leticia Wagener.

Funeral service is set to begin on Wednesday, November 12th at 11:45am at Sunset Funeral Home (1701 Austin Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78218). Service will begin with a few words from family Pastor Jaime Guerrero and will follow with opportunities for family and friends to voice any thoughts, stories, and prayers. At 1:00 pm all family/friends interested will take a short trip/ procession to Fort Sam Houston Cemetery for Military honors at 1:30pm. (1520 Harry Wurzbach rd. San Antonio, TX 78209.

At 2:00pm a Celebration of Life Reception will take place back at Sunset Funeral Homes with food, drinks and desserts. We invite all family, friends, and acquaintances of our father to attend.