Richard DeHerrera passed away May 18, 2024, at his brother’s home, surrounded by his loving family, after a valiant battle with prostate cancer. He was born on Feb. 26, 1952, in La Isla, Colo., to Orlando and Ida DeHerrera. He was 72 years of age.

Richard was predominantly raised by his grandparents, Frutoso and Ana DeHerrera, who instilled within him a deep-rooted sense of family and community.

An avid outdoorsman, Richard’s love for hunting and fishing showcased his deep connection with nature. He maintained a lifelong passion for raising animals. Known for his generosity and compelling storytelling, Richard touched the lives of many, sharing tales of travel and adventure that resonated with all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Richard’s adventurous spirit led him on extensive travels through Central America and Mexico, where he met his future wife, Kerry Jex-Blake. Together for 15 years, they spent most of their time in New Zealand, raising their two boys. Richard managed a deer farm and was the president of the local deer farmer association.

In the mid-1990’s, Richard returned to the United States where he undertook various roles across the country, forming new and lasting friendships wherever he went. His warm and affable nature made him well-liked, leading to a network of friends spanning the nation.

Eventually, Richard resettled in the San Luis Valley where he enjoyed giving back to his community, particularly through his work with the San Luis Valley Mental Health Center and contributions to the local senior citizens centers and community garden in Alamosa.

Richard is survived by his sons: Kael and Rosie and Joven and Kristina; his beloved grandson, Cruz; siblings: Ted and Janice DeHerrera, Guillermo and Jolie DeHerrera, Maria Morales, Kenneth and Yolanda DeHerrera, Cindy and David Atencio, Teresa DeHerrera, Orlando Jr. and Tish DeHerrera, and James and Denise DeHerrera; sisters-in-law: Brenda DeHerrera, Geraldine DeHerrera, and numerous nieces, nephews, God children, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Frutoso and Ana, parents Orlando and Ida, siblings: Andrew, Augustine, and Joan DeHerrera, and brother-in-law Moises Morales.

Richard’s widespread friendships and lasting impact on the community are a testament to a life well-lived, filled with love, laughter, and an enduring commitment to the well-being of others.

A celebration of Richard’s remarkable life will be held on May 27 at 11 a.m. in Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations by check to the Antonito Senior Center, PO Box 296, Antonito, CO 81120, a cause Richard passionately supported.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the loving care of the Johnson-Romero Family Funeral Home. Online Condolences and Shared Memories can be made at johnsonromero.com.