Richard Martinez Valdez was born October 15,1936 in Phoenix. He graduated from Glendale High School in 1955 and from Arizona State University with a B.A. and Master Degrees. He taught Middle school and later became a principal with the Phoenix Elementary School District retiring after 30 years. He was married to Dolores G. Valdez for 57 years who preceded him in death in May 2017 along with his son Steve in March 1985. He is survived by his three daughters, Amelia V. (George), Sanchez, Christina (Ramiro) Limon and Theresa (Jeff) Needs; 8 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Heaven welcomed an amazing man who will be missed every day. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 pm Monday, June 25th, 2018 at A.L. Moore-Grimshaw Bethany Chapel, 710 W. Bethany Home Rd., Phoenix. For condolences please visit www.almoore-grimshaw.com