Richard “Whitey” Valdez
Richard “Whitey” Valdez was born to Roberto and Eloisa Valdez in San Mateo, California on February 19, 1965, he entered eternal rest on May 30, 2026, in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Whitey was a fighter and never backed down from life’s toughest battles. Throughout his time, he remained humble and had a heart that stayed young no matter what was thrown his way.
Raised in San Rafael, New Mexico, Whitey was proud of where he came from. He loved cruising in his hometown with his windows down listening to New Mexican music, oldies, or Chicano rap. He loved riding his Harley and lowrider Cadillacs. But most of all he enjoyed the simple things in life like being around familia, a light conversation, and a home cooked meal of meatloaf and mashed potatoes or red chili con frijoles y papas.
Whitey was an old school Chicano. He was quiet, kept to himself, and did not need to be the loudest in the room because he knew exactly who he was. At the end of the day, all he cared about was looking out for himself and making sure the people he loved were okay.
Life gave him more than his fair share of challenges, but he stayed true to himself. Beneath his tough stare was a man who cared deeply and would do anything to protect the people he loved.
He is survived by his daughter, Leticia Rodriguez; his son, Richard Knipfing; his aunt, Peggy Valdez, who loved him as her own son and was like a second mother to him; his brother, Benjamin “Finez” Torres; his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; countless nieces, nephews, primos, and compadres who will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his father, Roberto “Smokey” Valdez; his mother, Eloisa Valdez; his sisters, Lorraine Valdez and Roberta Valdez; his brothers, Roberto “Gino” Valdez JR, Phillip Valdez, Nestor “Sarge” Valdez; his nephew Pablito “Poyo” Valdez, and many other loved ones who have passed before him.
The family would like to extend a very special thank you to his aunt Peggy Valdez, his nephew Peter Valdez, and all the familia and compadres who showed up for Whitey when he needed support. Whether it was a phone call, a meal, a ride, a prayer, a place to stay, or simply keeping him company, your kindness has not gone unnoticed. When times get tough you show up. For that, we are forever thankful. We know that his parents in Heaven are grateful too, knowing their son was cared for and loved when they could no longer be here themselves.
Whitey’s memory will live on in every cruise through San Rafael, every Harley ride down a scenic highway, every low hopping, every oldie on the radio, and every story shared among family and friends.
Whitey, your final cruise has come. The road is clear now, your burdens are gone, and your journey home is complete. We find comfort in knowing you have been reunited with your Mother, Father, and all your siblings. Your memory will ride with us forever.
WE LOVE YOU, UNCLE!
In honoring Whitey’s wishes, private funeral services will be held at a later date with only immediate family and close friends in attendance. Thank you for respecting his wishes and keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers.
Honorary Pallbearers: Leticia Rodriguez; Richard Knipfing; All his grandchildren; Benjamin and Fredrico Torres; Toya and Whitney Torres; Peggy, Tabitha, Hazel, Geraldine, Lindsay, Johnny, Peter, Anna, Ashley, Domacio, Michael, PJ, Adrian, and Joseph Valdez.