Richard "Squeeze" H. Vasquez

Richard H. "Squeeze" Vasquez
July 24, 1955-March 12, 2021

Richard H. "Squeeze" Vasquez, age 65 of Carleton, passed away unexpectedly in his home the morning of Friday March 12, 2021.

Rick was born July 24, 1955 in Detroit, MI to the late Enrique Henry Vasquez and Vivian "Rita" (Allain) McLaughlin. He graduated from Airport High School with his diploma in 1974. In 2000, Rick would go on to marry the love of his life, Laurie Bass, in Toledo, OH.

Rick owned and operated Vasquez Concrete and Masonry, where he was able to utilize his skill as a master craftsman and produce beautiful creations. Veterans held a special place in Rick’s heart. He volunteered his time, skills, and material to the Vietnam Memorial in Carleton. In 1992, he completed work on the Vietnam Memorial at Heck Park in Monroe. He also constructed the wall surrounding Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI. Rick was an avid member of the St. Nicks Club, volunteering as a Santa for over 40 years.

To cherish his memory, Rick leaves his loving wife, Laurie; son, Alex (Nora) Vasquez; daughter, Arielle (Eric) Belanger; step-sons: Bradley (Nicole) Bass and Kyle Bass; his mother, Vivian "Rita" McLaughlin; and six siblings: Dianna Vasquez of Flat Rock, MI, Marcie (Dave) Baker of Carleton, MI, Bea (Rick) Franchetto of El Dorado Hills, CA, Louise (Darryl) Coch of Carleton, MI, Gordon "Butch" (Jill) McLaughlin of Finley, OH, and Vivian Vasquez of Carleton, MI. Rick was a loving Poppi to Sophia Bass, Cullen Belanger, and Kara Belanger.

Along with his father, Rick was preceded in death by his step-father, Gordon McLaughlin; sister, Stella Engel; and fathers-in-law, Ernest Prather and Francis Hoffman.

Family and friends are welcome to visit from 1-6pm at Rupp Funeral Home on Tuesday March 16, 2021 where a funeral service celebrating Rick's life will be held that evening at 5:30pm. Deacon Mike Stewart will officiate. In accordance with Rick's wishes, cremation will follow.

Anyone wishing to make a memorial contribution in Rick's honor are asked to please do so to the family.

Online condolences to the family may be made through www.ruppfuneralhomeinc.com