Tributes

In Loving Memory of Richard Vega DeLaGarza "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7 We honor and remember the life of Richard Vega DeLaGarza, who has been called home to be with the Lord on March 26, 2025, at the age of 72. Though his presence will be deeply missed, we take comfort in knowing he is now at peace, resting in the everlasting arms of Jesus. He was born on October 21, 1952 to Anacleto and Maria Josepha (Vega) DeLaGarza. Richard was a loving husband, father, son, brother, devoted grandfather, friend, and a faithful servant of Christ. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Anacleto DeLaGarza, Jr.; infant son Francis DeLaGarza; and sister-in-law, Stella DeLaGarza. Richard leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving wife of over 51 years, Alfreda; daughters, Roxanne Villarreal and husband David, Erica Saliceti and husband Yamit (Jay); son, Richard DeLaGarza, Jr. and wife, Veronica; grandchildren, Abigail Mendoza (Kenny), Mia DeLaGarza, Reese Saliceti, Richard DeLaGarza III, David Villarreal III, Yamit Titus Saliceti, and Asher Saliceti; great-grandchildren, Justin Mendoza, Ian Mendoza, and Emma Mendoza; sisters, Mary Ann Wright and Joanne Rodriguez; brother, Juan Ramon DeLaGarza; numerous other loving family members and friends including his faithful dog, Kiwi. Richard lived with quiet strength and steadfast faith. He took great pride in his work, retiring as a supervisor from the historic Pearl Brewery in 2001 after more than 20 years of dedicated service. In 1982, he and his brothers opened Pyramid Meat Market, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. As a co-founder of Clash of the Titans alongside Freddy Cruz, Richard raced the streets of Texas, earning over 30 awards for street car racing and claiming the title of Number One overall at the Muddrags of San Antonio in 2018. His love for speed began as a young teenager when he started building cars, a passion that grew into a lifelong pursuit. Beyond racing, Richard was devoted to his faith and his family. He bought his daughters trucks and made sure they knew how to change the oil and tire before they drove off. He also passed down his love for cars to his son as he taught him to drive and fix the cars he once raced. His car legacy lives on in his son and grandsons. He coached his grandkids’ and great-grandkids’ little league baseball teams. If he wasn't in San Antonio he was out fishing in Corpus Christi, catching fish that grew bigger with every story. Richard constructed his own home, the very house where he peacefully passed. His brilliant mind wasn’t limited to cars as he crafted entire motors from scratch but he also made piñatas for every family party. He taught invaluable lessons on hard work, love, and sacrifice. His wisdom lives on in the skills he passed down—whether it was driving, changing a tire, playing baseball, or creating art. The most valuable legacy he left behind was to live like Christ together as a family. While our hearts are heavy with grief, we take comfort in knowing that Richard is now in the presence of our Lord and Savior, where there is no more sorrow, no more pain, but eternal peace.

Tributes

Richard Vega Dela Garza

October 21, 1952 - March 26, 2025