Richard Michael Alvarez Sr.

February 8, 1938 – August 9, 2026

Richard Michael Alvarez Sr., a lifelong resident of Stockton, California, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2026, at the age of 88. He was born on February 8, 1938, in French Camp, California, to Roy Alvarez Sr. and Ernestina Mendoza.

Richard was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend. He lived a life defined by family, friendship, hard work, laughter, and countless memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Richard attended Hazleton Elementary School through the fifth grade and Jackson Elementary School for sixth grade. He then attended Edison High School before continuing his education at Stockton Junior College. Throughout his younger years, Richard worked at various jobs before beginning his longtime career at Union Planning Mill. He proudly dedicated 32 years to the company before retiring. In retirement, he continued working part-time as an usher at Delta College.

Richard was truly a people person. He loved being surrounded by friends and especially enjoyed meeting his former Union Planning Mill coworkers for breakfast. He enjoyed going to the casinos, dancing, watching his beloved Dodgers, and sharing a good drink at Papapavlo’s. He was also a longtime member of the Umpire Association, the South Stockton Lions Club, and the Jesters Club, where he formed many lasting friendships.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Roy Alvarez Sr. and Ernestina Mendoza, and by his beloved wife, Margarita Alvarez, with whom he shared 54 years of marriage. Margarita passed away nearly 15 years before Richard, and his family finds comfort in imagining the two of them together again.

Richard was the youngest of his siblings and was also a twin. He is survived by his siblings, Roy Alvarez Jr., Mona Lopez, Rachael Torres, his beloved twin sister, and Robert Alvarez, who will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.

He leaves behind his five children: Richard Jr., Ron (Alex), Lisa Vidaure (Henry), Leo (Judy), and Rodney (Monica). He was a loving grandfather to Aria Doeck, Ricardo Alvarez, Christian, Alex, Alyssa Vidaure, Brandon, Jordon, Justin Alvarez, Gabriella, Natalie, and Adam Alvarez. He was also a proud and loving great-grandfather to Olivia Doeck, Eva Doeck, and Aviana Alvarez.

Richard had many friends and loved them all. He cherished the people who came into his life and had a special way of making everyone feel welcome. His stories, sense of humor, laughter, and generous spirit brought joy to those around him and created memories that will be treasured for generations.

Richard often said that he was going to live to the age of 97. Although his life was unexpectedly cut short, the 88 years he was given were filled with love, family, friendship, hard work, and memories that will live on through the generations.

His life may have ended sooner than he expected, but his legacy will continue through his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, extended family, and the many friends whose lives he touched.

Richard will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten. His memory will live on in the stories we tell, the laughter we share, and the love he gave so freely to his family and friends.

Rest peacefully, Dad. Until we meet again.