Dates
Richard Cuellar Bastardo, Sr., 67, of San Angelo went to be with the Lord on Friday, December 7, 2018 at Shannon Hospital in San Angelo. Richard was born April 17, 1951 in San Angelo, Texas to George and Hortencia Cuellar Bastardo.
He grew up in San Angelo and at a young age left school to help his parent save their home. He married the love of his life, Mary Ellen Torres, on September 21, 1968 and they shared 50 beautiful years together. Richard worked numerous different jobs over the years until he went to work for Wanda’s Auto Shop. He learned the trade of upholstery while working at Wanda’s and would eventually open his own business R & A Upholstery, which he operated for 19 years.
Richard was a jack of all trades and learned from his mentors that if you could dream it you could do it. He became proficient in carpentry, construction and using concrete. His passion for learning was only surpassed by his love of his community. Richard’s love for his community drove him to run for city council. He served a term on the San Angelo City Council. After serving his term as city councilman, he worked as a planning commissioner for the City of San Angelo and sat on the Board of Directors for HUD and the Tom Green County Tax Assessor.
He was a true “man for the people,” who embraced diversity. His integrity, strength, passion for God and helping others was only surpassed by his love for his family. He adored spending time with his family and grandchildren, especially taking trips to various places in this country with them.
In his spare time, he loved gardening and was an enthusiast for Cushman scooters and Harley Davidson motorcycles. He also enjoyed public speaking and socializing with friends. His love for family and passion for community will remain in our hearts forever, and we will dearly miss him!
Richard was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen Torres Bastardo, of San Angelo; his children, Shantelle Bastardo, of San Angelo, Jessica Bastardo, of San Angelo and Anissa Martinez, of Houston, TX; his grandchildren, Jesse, Jr., Laelanie, Mariah, Angelo and Tasha. The Wake Service will be 6:00 P.M., Sunday, December 9, 2018 at Harper Funeral Home. The Funeral Mass will be 10:00 A.M., Monday, December 10, 2018 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Rev. Joey Faylona as celebrant. Interment will follow at Belvedere Memorial Park. Pallbearers for the service will be Tomas Esparza, H. R. Wardlow, Lon Hall, Ben Martinez, Rexy Zipper and Chris Poole.
The family wishes to express their sincerest thanks and appreciation to all of the customers of CVS who gave so much love, support and prayers to Mary and Richard.