Richard Dale Acuna

Richard Dale Acuña, age 68, passed away on September 21, 2026. Richard was born in the San Fernando Valley area of Los Angeles, California to the late Robert Acuña and Jenny Valdez Acuña. He was the youngest of three with older siblings Robert and Annabelle. He attended Sylmar High School and studied engineering at California State University, Northridge where he later returned for graduate studies in computer science. While in college he met and married Linda Marlow with whom he had shared an interest in intramural softball and a backpacking club. He developed a love for the outdoors and subsequently shared many family summer trips in our national parks. He worked for Lockheed Martin following in his father's footsteps.

He was a loving father to Christopher, Noel, Jonathan, Matthew, and William and a cherished grandfather of Eloise, Isla, Dela, Anthony, Avery, Gabriel, Isaac, and Logan. 

He left California and moved to Rio Rancho, New Mexico in 2009 where he worked with Industrial Electric Automation. Later with Rio Rancho Water District and then Albuquerque Water Authority before retiring. Richard made friends quickly (he never met a stranger) and built a faith community for himself.

He was active at St. Thomas Aquinas then St. John Vianney. He enjoyed studying and growing in his faith and sharing it with others. He loved sharing stories about his children and grandchildren. He was always delighted when playing as Terran. He is remembered for his lifelong passion for computers and classic cars. He was loved by many and will be missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to La Luz Women's Center 2704 Southern Blvd SE Rio Rancho, New Mexico 87124.

Any messages for the family can be sent to Chris Acuna at chrisjacuna@gmail.com