Tributes

Ricardo Vasquez was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas, on September 27, 1953. Known to many as Richie or Richard, Ricardo will always be remembered as a jokester who could find humor in just about anything. His laughter, quick wit, and playful spirit brought joy to everyone around him. In 1974, Ricardo proudly joined the United States Navy. He attended the Naval Academy in Annapolis and was stationed aboard the USS Voge (FF-1047) in Mayport, Florida. After faithfully serving his country, he was honorably discharged in 1978 and returned home to San Antonio. In 1984, Ricardo married the love of his life, Judith E. Vasquez (Herrera). They met while working and attending San Antonio College, and over the years built a life rooted in love, loyalty, and family. Together they shared 42 years of marriage and welcomed their one and only daughter, Gabrielle “Gabi” Vasquez. In 2012, Ricardo received the title he cherished most of all—Grandpa—when his beloved granddaughter, Mia Presley, was born. Ricardo dedicated many years of his career to public service and hard work. He worked at Kelly Air Force Base in the Special Weapons Department, a position that allowed him to travel internationally to places such as France, Germany, Rome, and Spain. Later, he continued his service with the United States Customs and Border Protection under United States Homeland Security, where he worked until his medical retirement. Above all else, Ricardo was a devoted husband, father, godfather and grandfather. He was an active and loving parent who never missed an opportunity to show up for his daughter. He volunteered as a chaperone on elementary school field trips, attended every dance recital, watched proudly from the football stands every Friday night as she performed during halftime, and even marched in Fiesta parades with her school. Ricardo was the kind of man who would help anyone in need. Known by many as the neighborhood mechanic, he always had cars coming in and out of the backyard, lending a hand wherever he could. When he wasn’t fixing cars for others, he was working on his own pride and joy—his two 1968 Chevy Novas—which he also drove while commuting between Eagle Pass, Del Rio, and San Antonio during his years with Border Patrol. Ricardo was called home on June 24, 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, Felipe and Diamantina Vasquez; his in-laws, Arthur and Mary Margaret Herrera; and his infant nephew, Vincent Gerard Herrera (Mary Margaret) He is survived by his loving wife, Judith E. Vasquez; his daughter, Gabrielle “Gabi” Vasquez; his granddaughter, Mia Presley; and his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Gerard Herrera, Alex Herrera, and Mary Margaret Herrera, along with many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly. Ricardo’s humor, generosity, and unwavering love for his family will never be forgotten. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, service, hard work, and devotion that will live on in all who knew and loved him.

Tributes

Ricardo Vasquez

September 27, 1953 - June 24, 2026