Ricardo "Rico" Rael

Ricardo “Rico” Rael, musician, guitar virtuoso, composer, dreamer, performer, artist of rare talent, age 37 of Valdez, NM transcended on December 28, 2024.

Rico, el Ministro de  Musica, is an unreplaceable member of La Hermandad de los Brown Berets. His title remains with him forever and has been retired upon his passing. He was a land grant protector and was fully involved en la lucha por la gente.

He is preceded in death by his consentida grandma Nora Herrera Sillas, grandpa Bobby Mares, great-grandma Terecita Montoya DeHerrera, Tia Leonor Montoya Vigil, great uncles Montoya, great-great grandparents Montoya, ancestors Duran, Gonzales, Martin, Montoya and grandfather Lisandro V. Sillas and Sillas ancestors, aunts, uncles and cousins.

He is also preceded in death by his much-loved grandpa Eduardo “Eddie” Rael, great grandma Eliza Rael, cousin Leroy Rael, aunt Elizabeth “Deedee” Rael, uncles and aunts.

Also preceding him in death are his querido grandparents Alberto and Natalia Ontiveros and his beloved cousin Eric Luevano.

Amados amigos that made their journey before Rico include Ian Hoyer, godfather Geoff Bryce and mentor Lorenzo Flores.

He is survived by his devoted, loving mom Priscilla C. Sillas Rael and dad Elias “Eli” Ontiveros, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and step-sister.

Also surviving Rico is his father Alex Rael, grandma Tillie Rael, siblings, aunt, uncle and various great aunts, great uncles, and numerous cousins.

Rico is also survived by his supportive Ontiveros family.

Rico shared his life with a multitude of friends, acquaintances, and many other loved ones that he impacted across the universe.

Rico remains eternally in our hearts, thoughts, and dreams, inspiring us, his friends, and many future generations who will learn of his endless talents.

Services are pending.