Richard Joseph Velasquez

ARIZONA CITY - Richard Joseph Velasquez, 66, of Arizona City died on Jan. 17, 2019.

Mr. Velasquez was born in Eloy and was a son of Richard "Tito" Vasquez Sr. and Lupe V. Velasquez. He graduated from Chabot College in California, then served in the Army, then graduated from Los Medranos College. He worked for the Alameda (California) County Sheriff's Department and California Highway Patrol. He moved back to Eloy to care for his mother and help run the family business, Palomar Apartments, while working for Corrections Corporation of America (now CoreCivic) as a sergeant.

He enjoyed riding his Harley-Davidson and was part of the toy runs every year. A big Arizona Cardinals fan, he loved watching games with his family. He was known for his distinguished voice.

Survivors include his companion of 30 years, Juanita Zaragoza; a daughter, Magdalena Razo; two brothers, Paul Padilla and Augie Zaragoza; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; an infant daughter, Tina Marie Velasquez; and seven siblings, Richard "Dick" Vasquez, Paul Vasquez, Susie Stiles, Stella Phillips, Anita Vasquez, Mary "Minnie" Tackett and Elena "Mary" Zaragoza.

Memorial service later.

Memorial contributions may be made to Diabetic Foundation or Veterans of America.

J. Warren Funeral Services, Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel in charge of arrangements.