On Wednesday, December 23, 2020, our family lost its patriarch, Richard Telles, at 90 years old. He lived a full life of love, laughter, family and friends. Richard was born in Tombstone, Arizona on September 11, 1930 to Epifano and Gertrude Telles.
Richard spent his childhood in St. David with his parents and four siblings: Eddie, Stella, Sarah and Ruthie. He lived through the Great Depression and at a young age realized the importance of family, faith and community. As a child he wanted to be a cowboy, an athlete and a Marine. He enjoyed riding horses, played every sport he could and he enlisted in the Marine Corp. After his service, he moved back to help his family and it wasn't long until he met his "Yellow Rose of Texas", Martha. Richard always said that from the moment he met her, he knew she was the one for him. Throughout their life together, he always said she was "the best decision he ever made." They were blessed to share almost 67 years of marriage.
In 1959 a promotion by the Standard Oil Company brought Richard and family to Needles. He later opened Telles Chevron and then the NAPA store. In addition to his businesses, he volunteered for St. Ann's, the City Council, the Recreation Center (coaching, refereeing), the Transit Relief Program, St. Vincent's, Martha's Pantry, the Volunteer Fire Department and other important causes. Richard served as Mayor of Needles and his platform was to create activities for the city's youth. He was instrumental into getting the Needles Recreation Center built.
Richard and Martha had five children: Chuck, Jerry, Teresa, Marty and Annie. They also helped to raise their nephew, Wayne and their friend's daughter, Nancy. He made sure his kids knew the importance of family and helping others. Sundays were spent together worshipping, eating, boating, four wheeling and other activities. He loved the spouses of his children: Donna, Lenna, Tim, Cindy, Mike, Maria and Joe.
Richard leaves behind his wife; five children; two sisters; 12 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and countless friends.
A service will be held in Needles and in Benson, Arizona, where he will be laid to rest (the specific dates are yet to be determined).
Thank you to all who have reached out to our family, the calls, stories, flowers, cards and prayers have been appreciated.