Ricardo Leo Flores

(June 26, 1962 - Sept. 5, 2012)

Ricardo Leo Flores was born June 26, 1962 in Dos Palos, Calif. Rick died Sept. 5, 2012 after an eight-month battle with cancer. He was 50.

Rick was a much loved son, brother, husband, father, teacher, grandfather and friend.

Rick taught fifth-sixth grade in Mecca, Calif., and those who knew Rick often talked of the love he had for kids and the love those kids had for him. He inspired the children he taught to have a love for learning and a desire to do their best in the entirety of their lives.

Rick was the first born child to Leo and Esperanza Flores. As a boy growing up, Rick grew to have a love for the outdoors and taking care of his younger siblings. Rick was looked up to and thought of as a hero by his brothers and sisters. Rick loved and was loved by his siblings in a special way. He always filled the role as oldest child with tremendous care and respect. Rick would carry those same attributes into his adult life.

Rick married Suzanne Williams in 1983. With Suzanne, he had three children; Trista, Rick Jr., and Stephen. He was the proud grandfather of two boys: Tallin and Tayson.

Rick graduated from Northwest College. He lived in the Powell area for quite a few years, and has family in the area.

Rick would eventually pursue his dream of teaching.  He worked his way through school and would earn a degree.  In 2000, he would begin his teaching career at Mills Elementary School in Klamath Falls, Ore. Rick spent the rest of his life as a dedicated teacher and mentor to the children he taught. In addition to teaching, he coached several sports at school and often taught summer school as a way to reach more children.

Rick would marry a second time in 2005. Rick relocated to Indio, Calif., and married Cathie Shields. Rick adopted Cathie’s children: Anthony and Tatianna. He spent his time taking care of his family, teaching and dreaming of the next fishing trip.  He loved to watch movies, talk about current affairs, and be outdoors. 

Throughout life’s difficulties, Rick would never waver in his positive outlook and firm belief in doing the right thing. Rick and Cathie had become foster parents as well in 2011.

Rick was a man of steadfast faith. He touched many lives and was a friend to many.

He is survived by his mother and father, Leo and Esperanza Flores; three brothers, Dan Flores (Elaine), John Flores, and Mike Flores (Chauna); two sisters, Pati Blakesley (Don) and Stephanie Alvarez; his wife, Cathie Flores; and children, Trista White (Troy), Rick Flores, Jr. (Chrissie), Stephen Flores (Madi), Anthony Flores, and Tatianna Flores; and grandchildren, Tallin and Tayson White (Trista).  Rick will be remembered as a man of dignity and honor. His legacy will live on through the lives of those he has touched. Please feel free to visit ricardoleoflores1962.blogspot.com to view a slide show honoring Rick and leave a message for the family.