Richard Junior Ybarra

Richard Ybarra, a beloved father, papa, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on October 5, 2026, at the age of 64, surrounded by family and friends after a short, courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on June 3, 1962, to Richard and Dolores Ybarra, he lived a life defined by hard work, generosity, and a deep love for his family and friends.

Richard graduated from San Joaquin Memorial High School in 1980, where he was an outstanding athlete in football, track, and baseball. His talent earned him an athletic scholarship, and his love of sports remained with him throughout his life. A devoted San Francisco Giants and 49ers fan, Richard loved catching a game any chance he could.

Shortly after high school, Richard joined UA Local 246, beginning a career and union membership that spanned 45 years. He truly enjoyed his work as a pipefitter and took tremendous pride in his union, his craftsmanship, and the projects he helped build. His work took him throughout California and as far as Colorado. Among his favorite projects were Moss Landing and the Helms Pumped Storage Plant in the Sierra Nevada. He returned to Helms many times over the years, becoming a familiar face known by name.

Richard worked tirelessly to provide for his family and loved sharing his knowledge with others. He was always willing to teach, demonstrate his work, and help someone develop their skills in the trade he loved. His dedication and willingness to lend a hand extended far beyond the job site. Friends and family could count on him to help with an air conditioner, a heating unit, or anything else around the house. He cared deeply about those around him and would help anyone he could, giving his time and talents freely.

Richard loved the outdoors, especially camping and fishing with his son, Matthew. He also treasured the many fishing trips he shared with his brother Mike and his nephews. Those days together created lasting memories and gave him time to enjoy two of his favorite things: being outdoors and being with family.

Above all, Richard loved spending time with his family. His grandchildren, Zoe and Grayson, brought him immense pride and happiness, and he cherished being their papa. He loved watching their many activities and cheering them on. Whether attending Grayson’s football, basketball, and baseball games or supporting Zoe in her pursuits, he took joy in watching them grow and do what they loved.

That same devotion extended to his nieces and nephews. Richard loved watching their sporting activities and did his best to make it to every game and match he could. Being there mattered to him, and his presence was one of the many ways he showed his love.

Richard had a gift for making friends wherever he went. His kindness, generous spirit, and sincere concern for others made a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He showed his love through his actions by showing up, working hard, and being there when someone needed him.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Andrea Benson, and her husband, Ryan; his grandchildren, Zoe and Grayson; his son, Matthew Ybarra; his sisters, Patricia Ybarra-Villar and her husband, Jaime; Rachel Ybarra- Brandt and her husband Phillip; his brother, Michael Ybarra, and his wife Kristen; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered for his caring heart, his pride in his work, and his unwavering devotion to family and friends. His legacy lives on in the people he taught, the lives he touched, and the family who will carry his love with them always.

Visitation will be held at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home, 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno, CA 93720, on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 9:00am to 10:00am, followed by a Funeral Chapel Service at the same location at 10:00am.

A Graveside Service will take place immediately after the funeral chapel service at St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery, 264 N Blythe Ave, Fresno, CA 93706.