Richard Valdez Siggins

Richard Valdez Siggins of Pasadena, CA unexpectedly passed away on Saturday August 14th at the age of 71. He will be remembered for his wisdom, lust for life, compassion and sense of humor.

Richard V. Siggins was born at Queen of Angels Hospital in Los Angeles, CA on June 9th, 1950 to Jules Louis Siggins and Pascuala Valdez Siggins. He was the youngest and had 3 older brothers, Louis, Dennis and Donald. Growing up in Los Angeles, Richard loved the city. He shared fond memories of growing up near downtown, selling newspapers, and getting into and out of trouble with his 3 brothers. He brought his family to his old neighborhoods and took photos of the kids in front of his old house on Halldale. Richard enjoyed showing his family the corners where he sold newspapers and Carnations ice cream headquarters on Wilshire Blvd., where he sold many newspapers and always rewarded himself with his favorite ice cream. Richard shared stories about his many childhood experiences, especially about work and school. He wanted his children to know where he came from. He knew his work ethic was formed by the newspaper jobs of his early childhood.

Richard attended Holy Spirit Parish School and Daniel Murphy High School (class of 1968) where he made and maintained many special friendships .

Richard met his wife Teresa in 1970 and both went on to attend Cal State L.A. At Cal State L.A. he worked with EPIC, Educational Participation in Communities-Chicano Pride Program. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mexican American Studies in 1973. After graduation Richard became a community activist with the Greater Los Angeles Community Action Agency, the 2nd largest community action agency in the country. Thereafter, Richard became General Manager of the Los Angeles County Chicano Employees Association. These experiences led to his decision to study law because he believed he might better serve his community as an Attorney. He went on to study law at Loyola Law School, Los Angeles, graduated in December of 1978 and passed the California State bar exam in spring of 1979.

Richard was married to Teresa on May 26,1979. Their daughter Nina was born on September 10, 1981. Their son Gus was born June 20,1987.

As an attorney, Richard Siggins was known as a smart and compassionate man who worked hard to help the underdog. One of Richard's most rewarding experiences as an attorney happened early in his career. He participated as one of the attorneys on record, in habeas corpus proceedings before the California Supreme Court which won the complete vindication and release of their client; In re: Hall (1981) 30 Cal.3d 408.

After the birth of his daughter, in 1982, Richard Siggins joined the L.A. County Public Defender's Office where he continued to serve his community of Los Angeles for 28 years. Richard retired from the L.A. County Public Defender's office in 2010. His motivation for retirement was the birth of his first grandchild, Madden in 2009.

In retirement he enjoyed playing golf, swimming and sunsets in his backyard, and most of all spending time with his family. Richard loved his home and often said that he lived in paradise. He was a wonderfully active grandfather who spent weekends at grandkids' games and weekdays helping drive them around to various activities. He continued to pass on his wisdom, love of life and sense of humor to the next generation.

He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Teresa, his children Nina and Gus and their spouses, J.R. and Trisha, respectively. He is also survived by his 4 grandchildren who adored their Papa; Madden, Emmett, Brielle and Sunny, his 3 brothers Louis, Dennis and Donald. Richard was fortunate to have had wonderful Tias and Tios who loved and supported him from birth. His great aunt Palita, his beloved Nena, Tia Clara, Tia Mary Louise, his Uncle Nino for whom Nina is named, his cousin Vera and many cousins with whom he remained close throughout his life. He was dearly loved by Teresa's parents and family. He enjoyed the company of a variety of friends. He will be dearly missed by all who loved him, all who enjoyed his company, his singular perspective on life, political discussions, and of course his jokes.

He often quoted his dad's saying "We are people and we are now" which informed his desire (even more in his later years), to connect with as many people as he encountered in life.