Richard Isezaki Quinata

Richard Isezaki Quinata, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and proud serviceman, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2024, at the age of 76, surrounded by his cherished family in Ridgecrest, California.
Born on November 28, 1947, in Umatac, Guam, Richard was the second of eight children of Tomas and Josefina Quinata. In 1969, he met the love of his life, Nonita "Nit," with whom he shared a beautiful journey of 54 years. Together, they raised four children as a proud military family, forming a legacy of love, dedication, and resilience.
Richard served his country with distinction in the United States Air Force from 1967 to 1988, attaining the rank of Master Sergeant (E-7). His 21-year career took him and his family across the globe, earning him numerous commendations and the respect of his peers for his steadfast service and unwavering commitment.
After retiring from the Air Force, Richard continued his service as a federal investigative agent for over 20 years, working across various departments and agencies. Known for his fairness, integrity, and no-nonsense approach, he left a lasting impression on his colleagues and the communities he served.
In retirement, Richard found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He delighted in caring for his chickens and embraced the challenges of gardening in the desert. Above all, he found his greatest happiness in being "Papa" to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He cherished the time spent with the grandkids, cooking, watching old Westerns, and just hanging out. His family will forever remember his warm heart and the candy or cash he always managed to secretly slip into their hands.
Richard was the rock of his family, a man of unwavering strength, wisdom, and love. He inspired everyone he met with his dedication to family, country, and the values he held dear.
He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all who had the honor of knowing him.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks you to consider sending a houseplant as a lasting tribute to Richard.
Richard is preceded in death by his:
Beloved Wife: Nonita Maria Celis Quinata
Parents: Tomas and Josefina Quinata
Sister: Martha Pangelinan
Parents-in-law: Ignacio and Gloria Celis
Sister-in-law: Daria Lujan
Brothers-in-law: Joseph Leniz, James Pangelinan, George Aguon, Johnny Pangelinan, Raymond Celis, Jaime Celis, Richard Heady, Jose Lujan
He is survived by his:
Children: Richard (Jennifer) Quinata, Jr, Jason (Kate) Quinata, Ryan (Kelly Thompson) Quinata, and Nonette (Nicholas) Calvi
Grandchildren: Kalani (Arlene) Quinata, Rebecca (Bennett) Banach, Kienna (Eddi Fernandez), Richard III, Taitasi, Keegan, Johnavin, Kai, Mai'seo, Kamden, Kooper, and Range
Great Grandchildren: Kendall, Kainoa, Emma, Kawai, and Kalea
Sisters: Ruth Leniz, Grace (Joe) Mesa, Gloria Pangelinan, Lucy (George) Bamba
Brothers: Thomas (Nieves) Quinata, Jesse (Jean) Quinata
Sisters-in-law: Alicia Heady, Ramona (Atanacio) Manibusan, Antonette (Luis) Camacho, Marcy Celis
Brothers-in-law: Herminio (Jeanne) Celis, John (Barbara) Celis, Agaton (Leticia) Celis
Additionally, Richard will be dearly missed by countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.