Richard D. Ornelas

Richard D. Ornelas, age 71 of Amarillo died February 10, 2022 in Amarillo.

Public viewing will be on Monday, February 14, 2022 from 12:00 PM until 8:00 PM with a visitation from 5:30 PM until 7:30 PM at Schooler Funeral Home, 4100 S. Georgia St.  The liturgical service will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Cathedral with Rev. Tony Neusch at officiant.  Entombment will follow at Memorial Park East Mausoleum.  Arrangements are by Schooler Funeral Home.

Richard was born in Amarillo on May 27, 1950 to his parents Eluterio and Erminia Garcia Ornelas.  He graduated from Caprock High School and attended Amarillo College.

On November 20, 1982 he married his partner in life, Pamela in Amarillo, an adventure that would last the next 39 years. Richard retired as a supervisor from Pantex in 2013 after forty-five years.

When Richard walked in the room, everyone noticed, he had a larger than life presence.  He was an all-around great guy, very caring and generous.  He was articulate in the way he spoke and what he wrote, conveying his heart to his family.  Yet was able to influence situations with his strength, humor, and wit, whether it be in a professional or social setting. He was such a strong man, yet gave the most incredible comforting hugs.  Richard’s favorite times were those spent with the family.  Known for his cooking, especially his famous Chili Relleno Casserole, he loved to prepare and share meals with family and friends.  A favorite place was the house at Lake Greenbelt, were he and Pam spent almost every weekend.  Fourth of July Celebrations were a big deal at the lake with the grandkids. He also enjoyed boxing and watching old westerns.

Richard was precede in death by his parents: two sisters, Rebecca Ornelas and Judy Vigil; and by a brother, Samuel Ornelas.

He is survived by his wife Pam; his daughter Christina Cardona and husband Jim of Amarillo; his son Jason Ornelas and wife Jessica of Bushland; sisters, Barbara Perez of Austin and Becky Ornelas of Amarillo; brothers, Ismael Ornelas and wife Juanita of Colorado, Jose Ornelas and wife Suncha of Virginia, Leonard Ornelas of Oklahoma, Francisco Ornelas and wife Melva of Amarillo and David Ornelas of Amarillo; six grandchildren, Cameron Campbell and wife Rochelle, Richard Ornelas and wife, Baylee, Stephen Ornelas, Leslie Ornelas, Jayce Ornelas and Sylvia Cardona; and six great grandchildren.

The family suggests memorials be made to the High Plains Food Bank.