Richard Michael Najera

Richard Michael Najera
Known to many as "Chief"

June 6, 1946 – December 29, 2025

Richard Michael Najera passed away on December 29, 2025, at 4:19 a.m., after a hard-fought battle with lung cancer. Born in Denver, Colorado, Richard was raised by his foster parents on a farm in Golden, Colorado, where he cared for his own animals and developed a special bond with them. In 1964, he proudly joined the United States Navy, serving as a gunner's mate until his honorable discharge in 1965.

Following his military service, he started working for Adolph Coors in 1969, earning welding certifications and training in structural steel. Over the years, he continued his career traveling across the United States as an ironworker and welder. Eventually, he returned to Colorado, working on heavy equipment for Tarco Co., Wagner Equipment Co., and Kelly Trucking Co. He retired in 2011.

Richard married Dottie in 1989, and together they built a life rooted in love, faith, and family. His treasures were his wife, stepchildren, and grandchildren.

Richard enjoyed riding his motorcycles, working on his cars and trucks, listening to music, dancing, and reading a wide variety of novels. He took great joy in attending his grandchildren's sporting and school events, near or far. A faithful member of Trinity Christian Fellowship Church, he also served as a security guard.

He was a loving husband, stepfather, grandfather, friend, and neighbor. He was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. His family finds comfort in God's promise found in Philippians 4:19: "My God will supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus."

Richard is survived by his wife, Dottie Najera; his stepchildren, Gary Riggins (Natalie) and Shelley Riggins; and his five grandchildren, Savannah Riggins, Caden Riggins, Nash Riggins, Avery McCrum, and Ryan McCrum. He is also lovingly remembered by his many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his foster parents, Mrs. Synhorst and Mr. Ryan; his sisters, Delores (Deidra), Alicia Najera Sena, and Maggie Martinez; and his brother, Freddy Najera.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Richard's name via GoFundMe to support a handicap accessibility project at Trinity Christian Fellowship Church, to increase access for individuals with mobility needs. https://gofund.me/7347576c2

Donations may also be made in Richard's name to the Lung Cancer Foundation of America at https://lcfamerica.org/donate/.