On Friday, April 13, 2018 at 9:09 a.m. in Hanford, CA, our beloved Father Richard Acosta Balderama was called home.
Richard was born July 19, 1928 in Laton, Ca., to Samuel and Otillia Balderama. He was married to Angie Balderama January 2, 1951, who preceded him in death in 2009. Richard gave his heart to the Lord November 1975. He was baptized July 18, 1976. He was blessed by a calling from God to become a Pastor. After four years he graduated with honors in La Hambra, Ca. He subsequently became a Minister, pastoring Iglesia Ebenezor, Spanish Assembly of God for ten years followed by Assistant Pastor for Fountain of Life Church. He was also a heavy equipment machine operator for Hansen Ranches for many years.
Richard was well known as a caring, loving and anointed servant of God. He used props in his sermons to reach others. He baptized, married, counseled, presented and led many to Christ. He was easy going, patient and genuinely cared about everyone.
Richard is survived by daughters, Gloria Rocha, Brenda and Donna Balderama; sons, Ronald, Benjamin and Samuel Balderama; 24 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Angie Balderama, daughter Debra Balderama, sons, Richard Valle and Manuel Balderama.
Richard had many friends, family and people who loved him. He was truly a man of God.
Services were held April 20 at 10 a.m. at The Fountain of Life Church in Corcoran. Interment will follow at Corcoran District Cemetery.