Ricardo Badani Lobo

With great sadness, we share the passing of Ricardo Badani, who left us on January 26, 2025, at the age of 71 after a year-long battle with cancer. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor, and friend whose presence brought warmth and meaning to the lives of so many.
Born on June 12, 1953, in the small village of Pojo in Cochabamba, Bolivia, Ricardo was known for his generosity, selflessness, and kindness. He came to the United States in 1974 in search of a better life before settling into a 42-year career at Mercedes-Benz in Arlington, VA, as a Master Technician. In September 1976, Ricardo married Virginia Vega in a small ceremony with their closest family and friends. Together, they raised two daughters, Linette Castillo and Leslie Badani, in a loving home in Annandale, VA, where they lived for over 40 years.
Ricardo was outgoing and friendly, always bringing people together and making them laugh with his storytelling. He had a passion for classic rock and Bolivian music and spent much of his free time watching live concerts. You could often find him on weekends watching soccer from around the world or American football-his favorite teams being D.C. United and the Washington Commanders. Despite his son-in-law and grandson's loyalty to the Philadelphia Eagles, he always loved the playful competition. He enjoyed reading about politics and world history, especially World War II. He also loved to cook, making large meals that brought our family together, like his world-famous sopa de maní. He was the perfect example of the American dream and deeply loved this country. Despite a difficult and traumatic childhood, he came to the United States and built a wonderful life with a loving family and great friends.
Ricardo is survived by his wife, Virginia Badani; daughters, Linette Castillo and Leslie Badani; sons-in-law, Omar Castillo and Jose Guerra; grandson, Donovan Castillo (his little choclitos); sister, Tancy Stump (Tía Toty); and nephew and niece, Donald Stump Jr. and Jessica Watkins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Luis Badani and Nora Lobo, and his brothers, Luis Fernando Badani (Tío Nano) and Pepe Badani.
Ricardo's kindness, strength, and love will remain with us always. He will be laid to rest in Pleasant Valley Memorial Park in Annandale, VA, near his beloved brother Tío Nanito. He was the kindest, most honorable, and most beautiful person we've ever known, and we will miss him forever.