He was the fourth of five children. Richard graduated from Cobre High School in 1970, then attended New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, NM. There he met the love of his life, Vickie. They moved back to Hurley and were married on August 24, 1974, on his 22nd Birthday. Richard worked various jobs throughout the years, ultimately as a Diesel Truck Mechanic at the Chino Copper Mine, in Santa Rita, NM. He held that job for 28 years, until he was laid off in 2002. After his work at the mine, Richard returned to college to finish pursuing his degree. Richard also spent over a decade serving the Cobre Consolidated School District as a member of the Board of Education. Many of the special amenities that are seen at Cobre High, like the Performing Arts Center, All-Weather Track and Geothermal Heating System were all part of the work he did for the Cobre District during his time there. Richard was often described as a Gentle Giant. He had a 6 foot frame with a heart of Gold. His demeanor was always gentle and friendly, and he was always willing to teach someone something. His positive attitude about most things in life, including his own health, were what kept him and those around him going. His heart was made of Black and Gold more specifically, because he was a die-hard supporter of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pittsburgh Pirates. Richard loved to cook and bake, and was often known for sharing his delicious recipes with his neighbors in Hurley.

Richard is preceded in death by both of his parents, Mike and Carmen Abalos; oldest brother Mike Abalos Jr.; and his wife, The Love of His Life, Vickie T. Abalos, whom he shared his life with for nearly 42 Years. Richard is survived by his Three Children, six grandchildren. He is also survived by his remaining brothers and sister