Richard Velez Celis was born in Ray, AZ on May 6, 1944. Richard lived during his youth in the town of Sonora, AZ and attended Washington Elementary and Ray High Schools. Richard married the former Norma Flores, they resided both in Kearny and eventually San Tan, AZ.

Up until his retirement, Richard worked for a total of 48 years at Kennecott Copper, Asarco Ray Mines and Pinal County. Richard was a hardworking individual who was highly organized and detail oriented. Richard worked at several positions at the Ray Mines over the years.

Richard was a Mobile Mine Maintenance Supervisor, responsible for oversight of tire maintenance and field fuel and lubricants distribution program, this was for all mine and mobile plant equipment. His haulage tire expertise was well known in the mining community.

Richard also excelled at his position as a Pinal County Officer.  By the time his 11 years passed at Pinal County, he had developed an impressive career resulting in high respect for his job performance.

Being a member of the Kearny Elks Lodge for 37 years, Richard was highly dedicated and appreciated at the Lodge.  Richard served as Exalted Ruler for 2 years among his many contributions to the club. Richard developed many long-term friendships during his 37 years of service with the Elks organization.

Richard was an excellent athlete, playing sports at Ray High School as a teen.  He also played semi-pro Baseball and softball in his younger days. He remained a sports fan to the very end.

Of course, Richard truly loved his wife Norma, children and grandchildren.  He was tireless in his dedication to them.  His new position after retirement was to channel his energy onto his immediate family.  He loved to take the kids to and from school and to always fill the family's gas tanks.  Richard would make multiple runs to the grocery and department stores.   He loved to cook for the family and maintain their homes.  These and many other chores Richard was glad to accomplish.  It was just another way for Richard to do what he had been doing all his life, applying himself wholeheartedly.

Richard was a very quiet individual, incredibly loving and generous, a man with a great sense of humor. He remained active in his life and lived life to the fullest.  He had a positive impact on many of those whom his life touched.  Richard's brother simply said, "he was a great brother".  Richard will be greatly missed by his family and many friends.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents Edmund and Margarita, his brother Edmund Celis Jr, and his sister, Susie Soto.

Richard is survived by his daughters; Tracy Celis, Grandchildren and Great-grandchildren

Stephanie, (Mario)&Grandchildren

Sons; Richard Celis Jr (Tabitha), Grandchildren &Great-grandchildren

Leonard Hernandez (Opie), Grandchildren & Great-grandchildren

Brandon Hernandez (Bethann) & Grandchildren

Siblings; David Celis (Cindy), Frank Celis (Yolanda), Barbara Munoz

Celebration of Life Service

Friday, September 2, 2022 at 10am

Mountain View Funeral  Home Chapel

7900 E. Main St

Mesa, AZ 85207

Reception (After Service)

Elks Lodge #2429

1775 Chandler Blvd

Chandler, AZ 85224