Richard E Sargent

A Memorial Graveside Service for Richard E. Sargent will be held on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at the Highland Cemetery in Bertrand, Nebraska.

Richard Eugene Sargent passed away peacefully, with his wife, Socorro, by his side, on October 23, 2022. Born on June 20, 1934, in Indianola, Nebraska, to Willard and Luella Sargent, Richard spent his childhood in farm country. He helped his father run the family hardware store during his teenage years and briefly lived in Mexico City after high school graduation. Richard was stationed at El Paso's William Beaumont Hospital while serving in the Army and then returned home to Nebraska to farm sugar beets. The warmth of El Paso lured him back, and he began making his life here. After working in real estate, Richard started a building and remodeling business, which he ran for over 25 years. He married Socorro Muller on September 29, 1973.

Richard enjoyed spending time outdoors, roasting chiles, and crafting his acclaimed "Tio Ricardo's" salsa, which he loved sharing with friends and family. He evolved from a hunter to an animal rights activist and was a tireless supporter of the Veg Society of El Paso, founded by his wife. His family recalls upwards of a hundred animal-rescue successes.

He is survived by his wife, Socorro, and family across Arizona, California, Texas, and Nebraska, including Sal, Sonia, and Jair Ateca; Sandra Ateca; Alex Sargent and Alyse Mervosh; and Tim and Dot Stump.

Friends near and far will remember his helpful and generous nature. We will all miss his sense of humor and infectious laugh.

I n lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Veg Society of El Paso at www.vsep.org .

The Nelson-Bauer Funeral Home in Holdrege is assisting the family with arrangements.