Richard Trueba

Richard Trueba, age 86, of Saint Peters, Missouri passed away on Friday, July 26, 2024 in Saint Peters, Missouri. He was born in Brattleboro, Vermont on August 4, 1937 to Richard and Helen Trueba (nee ). 

A pillar to the community, Richard was called by many. Throughout his life he had been called by various nicknames such as Dick, Trick, or Ditty. Friends, family, and neighbors alike came to know his generous and kind heart. Many around him said he was larger than life, and accomplished everything he set out to do. Richard, skilled as both a craftsman and mechanic was known as the handyman, builder, and automobile mechanic. Richard especially enjoyed restoring cars back to their prime, this was evident with his Jaguar and Alfa Romeo convertible. Traveling the states with his doting wife via motorcycle was something he’d frequently love to do. In later years he and his wife, Marion Trueba, would have many trips under their belts, including many abroad. As Richard was an avid animal lover, Richard has had many stories to share about creatures and critters from his life. One most held close to him is his pup Sport who had saved him from drowning when he was just three years old.

Richard Trueba was a well accomplished professional as he was a highly regarded A&P Aircraft Mechanic who even had the honor of being appointed to work on Pope John Paul II’s plane thrice during his 30 dedicated years of work with Trans World Airlines/American Airlines. Richard was a self-described Yankee, and everyone knew this. Throughout his life, Richard was heavily invested in the political sphere. He was elected as selectman and road commissioner in Tewksbury, Massachusetts four times. During his political career, he was invited to two Presidential Inaugural Balls. No matter the circumstances, Richard was always looking for ways to refine society. Richard was always a man for the people.

Richard’s father, of Spanish origin, immigrated here to start a new life for him and his siblings. Later on in life, Richard grew to miss this part of his heritage; which led him to a path of visiting his father’s hometown and securing a citizenship for himself. He was proud of his heritage, and wished for his family to also revisit their roots. 

Richard, a treasured husband, loving father, and proud grandfather personified what truly meant to live the American Dream. From overcoming hardships in his youth with determination and a never-ending work ethic; Richard was able to not only make a name for himself, but leave a legacy behind. Richard had never failed to express his love and admiration for his family, and especially for his country. This was shown during his time serving in the Air Force during the Cuban Crisis in the 60’s. Richard was an inspiration to those who had the privilege of meeting him. He was an incredibly intelligent man who unforgettably was kind and empathetic to those around him. Richard cared for those in his community with both his skillset and his excellent advice. Although he is no longer with us, his wisdom and success lives on. His greatest accomplishments were said to be his family and their individual achievements. They each continue to build the Trueba Legacy brick by brick, keeping his memory alive. Richard was a great man who leaves his family with priceless memories that will never be forgotten. 

He now waits for his wife’s hand to dance again in the evening breeze. Perhaps, their next dance will be under the Moonlight in Vermont.

Richard is survived by his wife, Marion Trueba; his daughters, Michelle Sinn, Karen "Kay" (Joe) Wilhite, and Renee (Bryan) Brugmann; his grandchildren, James "Jimmy" Adams, Tyler Brugmann, Joshua Sinn, Collin Brugmann, John Adams, Rachel Sinn, and Hannah Sinn. He will be dearly missed by many other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Trueba, II; and his mother, Helen Rybackiewicz; 

Services will be private.

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