Rigardo Punzalan Morales, “Ricki”, 81, of Chicago’s Edgewater neighborhood, passed away Feb. 22.
He was born Jan. 16, 1945, in Batangas, Philippines, the youngest of five children. He graduated from Rizal College in 1964 and was 22 when he was petitioned by Catholic Charities to teach in the U.S. He proudly worked in special education for the Chicago Public Schools for 35 years. In his retirement, he found joy in caring for others as a caretaker and also worked as a medical secretary at Weiss Memorial Hospital.
Ricki loved to dress up and always wanted to look his finest. He enjoyed a good Filipino party, a buffet and the casino.
He usually did not want anyone to know when he was feeling ill and preferred to not show weakness. Even when his health was precarious, Ricki dressed in designer clothes for an emergency room visit.
When Ricki first met the man he would eventually marry, he slipped him an email address that began with “trymegorgeous”, making him a truly unforgettable character. Ricki was a winner in life, in most ways.
Ricki’s family meant the world to him. He sponsored and petitioned his parents, siblings and partner to the U.S. He practically brought a whole village to the United States—over 30 people—by himself. Particular gratitude to Ricki’s sister Nelly and great-niece Laila, who stepped up to support and care for him.
Beloved husband of nine years (together for 16) of Daniel.
Brother of Maria Benelda (“Nelly”), Consor, Marcel and Serafin; brother-in-law of Fely and Leonida; great-uncle of Vikki, Gina, Menchie, Arnaiz, Boy, Cenon, Milven, Noralyn, Reynold, Reinalyn, Laila, Miguel, Ohlie, Randolph and Kent.
Preceded in death by his parents Pedro and Felicisima Morales, sister Maria, dear friend Barney and also by four canine companions: Warren, Benji, Nik Nak and Mickey.
He will be dearly missed his great friends Regina and Trudle, and by Shiva, his Maltipoo.
Service with burial will take place in Bagong Sikat, Philippines.
Arrangements by Inclusive Funeral Care, 773-318-1305 or www.InclusiveFuneralCare.com.