Serving West Michigan Since 1899
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Ricardo "Richard" Aleman

August 27, 1935 - January 8, 2020
Holland, MI

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Visitation

Tuesday, January 14, 2020
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM EST
Saint Francis de Sales Catholic Church
171 W 13th St
Holland, MI 49423
(616) 392-6700

Wake Prayers will start at 7:00pm

Map

Service

Wednesday, January 15, 2020
11:00 AM EST
Saint Francis de Sales Catholic Church
171 W 13th St
Holland, MI 49423
(616) 392-6700
Map

Contributions


At the family's request memorial contributions are to be made to those listed below. Please forward payment directly to the memorial of your choice.

The Day Center of Evergreen
55 W 16th St
Holland, MI 49423
(616) 355-5118
Web Site

Life Story / Obituary


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Ricardo "Richard" Aleman was a true family man whose faith, honesty, and hard work proved legendary. A humble man, Richard embraced each day as a gift and each person as a friend. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who dedicated his life to ensuring the good care of those he loved. Richard was always quick to give of his time and talents in service of others, and in so doing, was an inspiration to many. Revered by all who were blessed to know him, Richard will long be remembered and deeply missed.

Despite the obvious gloom of the Great Depression, 1935 gave birth to many celebrated firsts. While reeling in the heartache of Black Sunday, our nation's 20.1% unemployment rate and the gathering war clouds as Germany passed the Nuremberg laws, Americans found much hope in Amelia Earhart's' first solo Pacific flight, the inventions of parking meters, fluorescent tubes for light, and the game of Monopoly, as well as the first Orange Bowl, first Pacific Airmail delivery, and the first Technicolor film; Mickey Mouse. During this hopeful time, in Bishop, Texas, Jose Y. Aleman and Mauela (Tamez) Aleman welcomed their son Ricardo into their family on August 27.

Growing up in Southern Texas, in the small community of La Villa, Ricardo's early years were filled with experiences that formed the firm foundation upon which he built the rest of his life. Fondly known as "Riche," by his brothers and sisters, Joe Jr., Hector, Enrique, Florestela, Roel, Alicia, Rojelio, Sylvia, Noemi, Rosa Ella, Virginia, Richard enjoyed the comforts of a large family. The Alemans raised their children with strong faith and rich tradition. From a very young age, he loved to fish and working with his hands; he could build anything he set his mind to.

Fate blessed Ricardo with the gift of meeting Felecitias (Fela) Mireles while attending school. On May 15, 1961, in Edcouch, Texas, Ricardo and Fela married at Santa Teresita Catholic Church. Soon after, they moved to Holland, Michigan, where Fela's brother was living. Once settled, they made a living as migrant workers. In 1966, Ricardo found work at Sligh Furniture Company. A year later, he began working for Bohn Aluminum and Brass Corporation, where he continued to work in production until his retirement.

In time, Ricardo and Fela welcomed three beautiful children into their family. Dalia, Enrique, and Helen were Ricardo's greatest joy, and he relished in being their father. Ricardo worked hard to provide a loving home for his family. His parenting was rooted in his unwavering faith, generosity, and humility. He was a good provider and a great man.

Ricardo continued to enjoy working with his hands and spent many hours pleasantly caring for his yard and home. He always looked forward to returning to Texas and visiting family, attending mass at St. Francis de Sales Church, and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys. As his family grew to include grandchildren, so too did Ricardo's joy. With love and humor, he enjoyed declaring his two special rules: Rule #1 Granpa is always right, and Rule #2 If Grandpa is wrong, see Rule #1.

Though it is difficult to imagine life in the absence of Ricardo's loving presence, we are sure to find comfort in knowing we carry the best of his legacy forward in each of our hearts and lives. With each moment we pass along his good advice, watch the "Stinky" Lions, tend to our yards, share a family meal, or attend mass, we celebrate the many ways Ricardo gifted us. And in this way, we keep his spirit alive and inspiring others as he so inspired us.

Ricardo (Richard) Aleman, age 84 of Holland, MI, passed away peacefully at his home on January 8, 2020. He was born on August 25, 1935, in Bishop, TX, to Jose Y. Aleman and Manuela (Tamez) Aleman.

Ricardo is survived by his wife and companion of 58 years Felecitias (Mireles) Aleman. Ricardo will be greatly missed and forever loved by his children, Dalia (Albino) Rios, Enrique (Aracelia) Aleman, Helen (Rolando) Rodriguez; grandchildren, Veronica, Ricardo, Alexandria, Arielle, Elizabeth, Austen, Jaqueline, Ariana, Lorena, and Mariana, along with 3 great-grandchildren.

The beloved brother of Hector (Gloria) Aleman, Enrique (Ida) Aleman, Florestela Fuentes, Roel (Alicia) Aleman, Alicia Godlove, Rojelio Aleman, Sylvia (Andy) Zamora, Noemi (Melecio) Rios and Rosa Ella (Joe L.) Aleman Serrano, he is also survived by several in-laws.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother Joe Aleman Jr, and sister Virginia Aleman Hoose.

Family and Friends will be received from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, 2020 at St. Francis de Sales Church with a Rosary starting at 7:00 p.m.

Funeral Service will be on Wednesday, January 15, at 11:00 a.m. also at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. Burial will take place at Pilgrim Home Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Day Center of Evergreen.

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