Obituary of Ricardo Vasquez

Ricardo “Rick” Vasquez, 76, a resident of Hollister, passed away in San Jose, California, on October 11, 2024. Ricardo was born on March 25, 1948, in Visalia, California, to his parents, Ricardo and Francisca Vasquez. He excelled academically in high school and developed a deep love for literature early on. This passion led him to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Literature from the University of California, Berkeley, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from California State University, Fresno. Beyond Visalia and Hollister, Ricardo lived in various places, including New York and several California cities like Fresno, Trinidad, and San Juan Bautista. Throughout his life, he cultivated a rich appreciation for books, evident by his extensive collection. He loved reading, cooking, baking, poetry, and music—especially jazz. An avid photographer, he particularly enjoyed black-and-white film photos and maintained his own darkroom for many years. Ricardo cherished handwritten correspondence, often sending thoughtful cards and letters via “snail mail” to his close friends and family. Ricardo dedicated his career to social services, specializing in substance use disorder treatment and rehabilitation. As a program director and counselor, he was a tireless advocate for those struggling with addiction, using his exceptional writing skills to secure funding for vital programs. His innovative approach transformed countless lives, empowering individuals on their recovery journeys and advocating for accessible treatment in underserved communities. After retirement, Ricardo joined the Jovenes de Antaño Senior Center as a Meals on Wheels driver. There, he enhanced the quality of life for seniors through nutritional support and social connection, fostering a sense of community and family among staff and those he served. Ricardo is survived by his children: Jennifer Apodaca-Cabinatan of Litchfield Park, Arizona; Joaquin Vasquez of Sun City, Arizona; and Sonora Vasquez (Ruben Gonzalez) of Santa Cruz, California. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Paul, Desiree, Jaden, and Mateo. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ricardo and Francisca Vasquez, and his son-in-law, Danny Cabinatan. To honor his wishes, there will be no formal funeral services. Instead, a memorial gathering will be held at the Jovenes de Antaño Senior Center in Hollister, California, on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. Friends and family are invited to join. Memorial donations may be made to: Jovenes De Antaño Senior Center 300 West Street P.O. Box 860 Hollister, CA 95023