Richard E. Sargent passed away peacefully on October 23, 2022, with his wife, Socorro, by his side, in
El Paso, Texas.
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 in Bertrand, Nebraska
during his teenage years and graduated from Bertrand High School. He briefly lived in Mexico City, Mexico
following 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.
Honoring Richard’s wishes, there will be no funeral. Instead, the family will host a celebration of his life
at Highland Cemetery in Bertrand, in the spring.
At this time, in 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.