Richard Zuniga Menchaca

Rick, as he was lovingly known as, was born in San Antonio, TX to Ninfa Menchaca on March 27, 1950. He graduated from Kennedy High School and immediately enlisted in the Navy to serve during the Vietnam War. He was a communications seaman on the USS Tripoli from ‘69-’71. Upon his return, he was hired by the Federal Government at Kelly Air Force Base in San Antonio. He began as a janitor and worked his way up in human resources through different agencies until he retired as Chief of Labor Relations in Arlington, Virginia for the Department of Education Activity. He met his wife, Celia Arias, at La Villita in May of 1971 at a dance and sparks ignited instantly. Three months later they were married on August 20, 1971 and have been married for over 51 years. Their legacy of commitment in marriage through high highs and low lows left a deep impact on their family.

He is survived by his wife Celia Menchaca, daughters Melissa Tapperson and Marina Lentz, son’s-in-laws Brian Tapperson and Daniel Lentz, and 7 grandchildren: Isabela, Tristan, Aidan and Boden Tapperson and Julia, Jackson and Evelyn Lentz.

Rick was a committed husband, father and grandfather and his antics and childlike humor will be missed. Rick had dedicated his life to following Jesus and this was evident in his incredible generosity to those around him, from the barista at Starbucks, to the homeless man at the street corner, to his cousins in San Antonio, to those in his neighborhood and to his wife, children and grandchildren. He loved the ocean and fishing and drove his children crazy trying to get them all to go to the Coast at every possible opportunity to catch the “big one”. Rick had a larger than life personality and always found a way to make children and teens laugh and be seen.

Rick’s favorite Bible verse was “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9). His memory will be treasured and cherished until we are reunited with him in heaven through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Funeral services will be held at Fort Sam Cemetery and details will soon follow.