Richard Calles Jr.

Richard Calles, Jr. was called home to be with the Lord and passed away peacefully on March 11, 2024, in Edinburg, Texas, at the age of 76. Born on February 10, 1948, in Harlingen, Texas, to Ricardo Maya Calles and Herminia Mosqueda Calles. Richard's life was one of dedication, joy, and an unwavering commitment to his loved ones.
He is preceded in death by his father, grandparents, Juan and Enriqueta Ortiz Mosqueda and Rafael and Maria Elena Maya Calles, and his beloved sister Rose Marie Lopez. 
He attended Eliot Elementary and McReynolds Junior High in Houston before graduating from Edinburg High School. Shortly after, Richard answered the call of duty and joined the United States Marine Corps, serving his country with valor during the Vietnam War as a member of Whiskey Battery 1/13 Vietnam Kilo Battery 4/13 platoon, alongside his brother-in-arms, Elias Salazar, Jr.(†). Semper Fidelis. Upon his return, he furthered his education at Pan American University.
He embarked on a career that spanned several decades and included positions at Blevins Motor Company in McAllen, Hi-Way Pipeline in Edinburg, Kelly AFB in San Antonio, Tinker AFB in Midwest City, Oklahoma, and the Corpus Christi Army Depot. His work ethic was a testament to his character and dedication.
Richard's heart belonged to his family. He was a devoted husband to his wife of almost 50 years, Sylvia Arteaga Calles. Together, they raised three loving daughters, Roxanne (Ruben) Martinez, Reena (Jaime) Rodriguez, and Rebecca (Carlos) Morin, who were the light of his life. His grandchildren, Daniel and Kassandra Rodriguez, Luis Martinez, and Aaron, Hayley, Xzavier, and Xade Morin, brought him immeasurable pride, joy, and laughter.
His siblings, Robert Calles, Rose Marie(†) (Rudy†) Lopez, and Rachel (Richard) Marez, held a special place in his life. He was a beloved Tio, cousin, and friend to many, always ready with his wit and sarcasm, a helping hand, and whose generosity knew no bounds.
In his youth, he enjoyed the time spent at church with his grandparents and family and also hunting, fishing, and working on cars with his father. He was known for his love of racing cars, dancing, and the camaraderie he shared with his friends and cousins.
He found contentment in the simple pleasures of life like soaking up the sun while cutting his grass. An avid fan of BBQing and camping at some of his favorite spots like Camp Riverview, Garner State Park, and Chalk Bluff. Richard's love for food was legendary, and he never missed an opportunity to indulge in dessert. His leisure time was often spent listening to oldies, reading the newspaper, and staying informed on current events. He enjoyed watching The Price is Right, Family Feud, Barrett-Jackson car auctions, wrestling, and was a fan of old western and military movies.
Those who knew Richard will remember his charm and humor, the love he showed, and his generosity, which was shown through his favorite quote "I buy, you fly". His smile was infectious and his presence a source of comfort and joy. Richard's legacy of love and laughter will forever remain a part of those who were fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will continue to inspire and guide those who were touched by his remarkable life.
We would like to thank his numerous doctors, Dr. Gabriel Gonzalez and Nurse Jerry (VA), Dr. Christopher Wood(†), Dr. Andrew Levine, Dr. Subbarao Yarra, Dr. Carlos Pimentel, Dr. Ghanem Daghestani, Dr. Rogelio Salinas, DaVita and Fresenius (both on Jackson Rd), DHR Hospice, and all their wonderful nurses and staff. 
Visitation will be from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a 7 p.m. prayer service, Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at Rivera at Hillcrest Funerals and Cremations 1300 N I-69C Edinburg, Texas. Chapel service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 14, 2024 at Rivera at Hillcrest Funerals and Cremations. Interment will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Edinburg. 
Funeral services are under the direction of Rivera at Hillcrest Funerals and Cremations in Edinburg. 
Those who wish to honor his memory, in lieu of flowers, may send donations to: 1.) Institutional Advancement-Marine Military Academy (320 Iwo Jima Blvd Harlingen, Texas 78550-9980) or 2.) The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund - The Wall That Heals ("Buy A Mile" at www.vvmf.org).
OOH-RAH!

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