Richard Costillo Bega

Richard Costillo Bega was born in Dinuba California on April 1st, 1947. He was the 5th child of Frank and Mary Bega. Richard served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1970. He was a loving husband, brother, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He is survived by his siblings Jennie Hernandez, Frances Fangonilo, Frank Bega, Stella Martinez, Henry Bega, and Raymond Bega. He preceded in death by his parents Frank and Mary; his brothers Danny, Martin, and Joseph Bega; his sister in laws Carol and Cindy Bega; brother in laws Tony Martinez and Alex Fangonilo; and nephews Marty and John Bega

Richard Bega grew up in Japantown of San Jose. He attended San Jose High School. Shortly after, Richard was drafted into the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1970. Upon coming back from the war, he worked as a bartender in San Jose. In 1971, he worked for the City of San Jose as a groundskeeper and an equipment operator for the graveyard shift and was known as “The Mole” by many of his colleagues. He retired from the City of San Jose after 28 years. Afterwards he worked for LeHigh Cement from 2000 until he retired due to health issues in 2015.

Richard, also known as “Pop” by his daughter and grandchildren, was a proud family man. He met his wife Darlene in 1976 and married in 1983. He joyfully took the role of being a stepfather to her 4 children George, Richard, Steve, and Delenia. He was proud to be a grandfather to his 13 grandchildren Cynthia, Andrew, Desiree, Christina, Alex, Angel, Richard, Deandra, Frankie, Destinee, Juliana, David, and Jesse James. He was very proud to be a great grandfather of his 19 great grandchildren.

Pop was well known for his loud voice and funny remarks. He loved children and took great care of many of his nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. He loved to barbecue and watch cooking shows, COPS, and jeopardy. He passed away surrounded by family at the Veterans Hospital in Palo Alto. He will be greatly missed by many.