Richard Hoak, born March 25, 1956, in Los Alamos, New Mexico, passed away on January 8, 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 Father Lester Hoak, his children, Jeremy Poteet, Brenda Kenyon, and Molly Tyson; his stepchildren, Matthew and Rico Taylor; 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, Wesley, Jackson, Zara and Brooke. Richard is also survived by his sisters Cary Cristoff & Star Tierra, nieces Megan Tierra, Tessa Brooks, and nephews TJ Black and Kiel Miller, each of whom he held dear. Many other bonus cousins, nieces and nephews as the family grew. 

He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara VanVleet,  his brother Dennis Hoak, and step son Antonio Taylor. 

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 New Mexico National Cemetery in Santa Fe, New Mexico

In Lieu of Flowers you can make donations to the Kenyon Childrens Ministry

Donate here:

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https://account.venmo.com/u/b…

Zelle - cbkenyon2014@gmail.com

 Brenda Kenyon

 (317)853-0933

https://www.facebook.com/Keny…

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