Ernesto “Ricardo” Velasquez was born on Oct. 15, 1972, in Del Norte to Richard and Cora Velasquez. He passed away on Dec. 25, 2020.
His love for driving heavy equipment led him to enroll in a lineman apprentice program in California. He became a certified lineman and started a family in Las Vegas, Nevada  He furthered his lineman knowledge by working as an Electrical Compliance Specialist in California and Florida.  His love for mountains and family brought him back to Colorado. He was enjoying his second career as a Heavy Equipment Driver/Operator for local farms.
Ricardo was a kind-hearted, loving, spiritual soul who had an infectious smile and laugh. His kindness and ability to always help others was an example of his character. He loved sports, being in the mountains, watching the Broncos and enjoying movies. Ricardo loved spending time with his mother, family and friends. His good-natured demeanor and thoughtfulness made him unique and he will be missed by all who knew him.
He is survived by his mother, Cora E. Velasquez; two children, Karly Velasquez and Cody Velasquez; sisters, Yvonne (Dale) Weaver, Roxanne (Jim) Velasquez.
He is proceeded in death by his father, Richard E. Velasquez, brothers Anthony and Joseph Velasquez; Paternal Grandparents, John and Beatrice Velasquez; Maternal Grandparents, Bonifacio and Antonia Gallegos.
A rosary was held on Jan. 2, 2021, at 10 a.m. at Strohmayer’s Funeral Home with interment at Del Norte Cemetery immediately following. Reception to follow at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Del Norte, Colorado
Arrangements by Strohmayer’s Funeral Home, Monte Vista CO.