Richard David Rozalez

Richard “Rick” David Rozalez, 70, passed away peacefully on June 24th, 2026, at 9:40am, surrounded by the love of his family in Omak, Washington. After facing aggressive stage 4 cancer with strength and determination for the past year, he was finally free from pain and left this world in the comfort of those who loved him most. Rick was born in Albert Lea, Minnesota on December 22 nd , 1955, to Joseph and Isabel (Carrizalez) Rozalez. He graduated from Albert Lea High School in 1975 and went on to complete automotive technology at Austin Community College, receiving a certificate in 1976. He moved to Washington state in the early 1980s, where he worked in the area’s orchards for a short time. He met Rena Purcell and married her in 1988, starting a lifelong journey together. Rick accepted Rena’s 5 children as his own, and on November 21st, 1988, their daughter Rikki Anna was born. They created a home in Country Estates, where Rick was a well-known and respected trailer park manager. When his children were still young, he and his wife enjoyed family road trips to his home state of Minnesota. He loved the outdoors and would also take his family on adventures in the woods and fishing. He was always tinkering with and working on something-whether it was vehicles or home repairs. He was prideful in his well-maintained yard and garden. He was a true and hard-working handyman. His work ethic was incredible. On top of maintaining Country Estates, he also dedicated 38 years working at the funeral home River Valley Funeral & Cremation formerly Precht-Harrison-Nearents Chapel, starting in 1986. Over the years, Rick became the “go to guy” with invaluable knowledge. He developed lifelong friendships with Ted Harrison, Michael Nearents, Glenn Graves and their families, who deeply respected him. Rick was a fun-loving son, brother, father, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle and friend, who touched the lives of so many. He was unassuming and quiet by nature. He had a contagious smile and loved to laugh and tease his loved ones. He enjoyed outings; eating out for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, going on drives, gambling at the casino, and buying his favorite Lotto and scratch tickets. Breakfast was his absolute favorite meal. His other favorites were meatloaf, country fried steak, apple pie with vanilla ice cream, fish sandwiches from McDonald’s, KFC, BLTs, m & m blizzards, and eating chile rellenos at Mexican restaurants. He also enjoyed his root beer and 7Up. Rick was a die-hard fan of the Minnesota Vikings and NASCAR driver Kyle Larson. Rick didn’t believe in complaining or feeling sorry for himself. Instead, he possessed a positive can-do attitude to solve almost any problem that challenged him. In July 2025 life became challenging for Rick when he was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic Neuroendocrine tumor of his brain and spinal cord. His stepson Joey became his primary care provider, advocate, rock and protector, guiding him through and battling his aggressive fight with him. Together, Rick and Joey created unforgettable memories completing two of Rick’s bucket list trips- attended a Vikings and Seahawks football game, courtesy of the generosity of Jim Small, who gifted tickets and hosted them. The second was in early 2026, when they drove along the Oregon Coast. Rick had never been to the Oregon Coast and was adamant in going. This would end up being his last trip. Outings became shorter and less frequent as his health declined. Throughout Rick’s life he could be counted on, being available to help out any friend or family member in need. He loved his family and friends deeply. In December 2025 Rick’s brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews traveled from Florida, Kansas and Minnesota to surprise him with a visit and a small, early 70th birthday get together. Left to cherish his memory are his children Rikki Rozales, Tony Barbosa (Kelly), Joey Barbosa (Ashly), Lisa Basinger (Darren), Krista Morris, and Christopher Morris. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren and great grandchildren, especially his grandson Steve Richard, who carries his namesake, and his granddaughters Autymn and Kaylee. Also, Steve’s siblings Jordann and “Chap” who lovingly called him Grandpa over the past 7 years. Their unwavering presence, visits and laughter filled his days with happiness and smiles, especially in his final months and weeks. Rick will also be dearly missed by his brothers and sisters; Phillip (Karen) Rozalez of Wichita, KS; Rosie Robinson of Hayward, MN; Mark Rozalez of Sunrise, FL; Christina (Charlie) Dresser of Albert Lea, MN and John (Sheree) Rozalez of Wichita, KS. He is survived by numerous nieces and nephews; and his beloved, faithful friends Jim Small, Michael Nearents and Glenn Graves. He is preceded in death by his parents, aunt’s, uncle’s, brother George Rozalez and wife Rena Rozales. In lieu of cards and/or flowers please send a donation in Rick’s name to our local “Bouncin’ for Boobies”-Omak, WA, “Wellness Place”-Wenatchee, WA, or “Cancer Care”-Wenatchee, WA. All 3 of these organizations greatly helped Rick through his cancer battle. A memorial for Rick will be held 6:00 P.M. Friday, July 17th 2026 at River Valley Funeral & Cremation in Okanogan, Washington.

Richard David Rozalez

December 22, 1955 - June 24, 2026