Richard Hoak, born March 25, 1956, in Los Alamos, New Mexico, passed away on February 13, 2025. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, son, grandfather, uncle, and friend whose presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Richard proudly served his country in the United States Navy and later became a dedicated officer with the New Mexico State Police. His career was tragically cut short due to a severe motorcycle accident that left him mentally and physically impaired. Despite the challenges he faced, Richard's resilience shone through. He found joy in life’s simple pleasures, including bike riding, scuba diving, and flying kites. He had a special love for movies—often movie-hopping at the theater while indulging in endless popcorn. Richard also had a deep appreciation for comfort foods and never turned down a Sonic milkshake or a delicious Mexican breakfast.
Raised in the church, Richard’s faith became more personal in the final years of his life. His connection with God deepened, and he embraced his relationship with Jesus with a renewed heart. Through all of life’s hardships, Richard was a fighter, overcoming many challenges and always pressing forward with courage and strength.
He is survived by his loving wife, Yvonne Taylor; his children, Jeremy Poteet, Brenda Kenyon, and Molly Tyson; his stepchildren; his cherished grandchildren, including Brenda’s son, Elijah Bryant, Jeremy’s children—Jacob, Samuel, Sara, Noah, and Elijah Poteet—and Molly’s daughter, Willow Tyson Al-Yasi; as well as his four step-grandchildren. Richard is also survived by his sisters, nieces, and nephews, each of whom he held dear.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara VanVleet, and his brother, Dennis Hoak.
Richard’s life was marked by service, adventure, love, and a deep and enduring faith that only grew stronger over time. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know and love him.
A memorial service will be held on March 25, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Santa Fe National Cemetery in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
In Lieu of Flowers, you can make donations to the Kenyon Children's Ministry
Donate here:
https://cash.app/$brendysmiley
https://account.venmo.com/u/b…
Zelle - cbkenyon2014@gmail.com
Brenda Kenyon
(317)853-0933
https://www.facebook.com/Keny…
https://everloved.com/life-of/richard-hoak/
Arrangements have been entrusted to the compassionate professionals at
Trujillo Family Funeral Home
“Our Family Serving Yours”
Tuesday, March 25, 2025
11:00 - 11:30 am (Mountain time)
Santa Fe National Cemetery
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