Rick Q. Beltran
February 29, 1928 - February 3, 2021
Obituary
Rick Beltran: The Humble, Gentle Leader
Rick Beltran personified the ideal community civic leader. He had a natural feel for the needs and aspirations of his community. Among his most profound contributions during his long leadership role was as President of the Filipino Community of Seattle (FCS), as Regional Chair of the National Federation of Filipino American Association (NaFFAA), and as adviser to scores of organizations in the Puget Sound area.
He was a principal planning partner of the Philippine Consulate General in Seattle and Ambassador Joey Syjuco considered Rick an important ally in such pioneering projects like Pista sa Nayon, Independence Day Festival at Seattle Center which is now the yearly Pagdiriwang in June Philippine Independence week. It was under Rick Beltran’s direction when he was FCS President during the 50th Golden Anniversary of the organization to produce the original milestone community book known as PAMANA (Legacy) which records the stories of pioneers who established an organization and a gathering place like a plaza in the old homeland.
It was also Rick who worked with the national leader Alex Esclamado in establishing an active Chapter of NaFFAA in the Northwest. He was a staunch supporter of aging WWII veterans who were under the care of the International Drop-In Center (IDIC) and the Rizal Park & Bridge Preservation Society during its formative years. Many groups will claim his leadership because his style was personalized, warm and human. To many, Rick Beltran leaves a huge void and will remain as symbol of genuine Filipino bayanihan in spirit and deeds.
—Sluggo Rigor
Rick was well known for his many accomplishments in life, but nothing made him prouder than his family. He never missed a moment to say how proud he was of their accomplishments and made sure to attend as many talent shows, performances, and sports events as he could. He loved to say that their talent stemmed from him, saying, “You got it from your Grandpa!”
Rick is survived by his sons Reynante Beltran (Helen Beltran, wife), Roehl Beltran (Esther Beltran, wife), Rolando Beltran (Lina Beltran, wife), Roderick Beltran, Ronnie Beltran (Theresa Beltran, wife), Vincent Baga, Greg Foronda (Charlene Foronda, wife), Michael Foronda (Krista Foronda, wife) and daughter Rowena Lum (Scott Lum, husband),
As well as his grandchildren Rodell Beltran (Ashley Beltran, wife), Rachel Buckner (Aaron Buckner, husband), Alexandra Ocampo (Joses Ocampo, husband), Brieana Beltran, Amanda Beltran, Ryan Beltran, Richard Beltran, Bryson Beltran, Britney Beltran, Christopher Lum, Brandon Beltran, Courtney Lum, Chason Beltran, Alexis Baga, Scott Foronda, Danica Foronda, Kendall Foronda, Juliano Foronda, Kalayna Foronda, Kamryn Foronda and great grandchildren Judah Buckner, Micah Buckner and Kara Rose Beltran.
Rick was preceded by his parents, wife Rosina “Rose” Beltran, and daughter Roselily.
Rick will be missed – as a father, a grandpa, a friend, and a gentle leader. His beautiful singing voice will always be remembered.
Tata Rick & I worked at USWest Communications where we both retired.
He often times acted as manager of the department that he was at and gained respect of his co-workers. Professionally, He was smart, conscientious and knowledgeable.
He was kind and generous. He was honest and respectful. Sadly- we were not able to enjoy his company the last few years of his life.
He was a loving husband to Manang Rose Beltran who is excitingly for him now in Paradise. An outstanding father to his beautiful and successful children. A great family man he was!
Thank you Tata Rick for sharing your life with us! And to the family thank you for letting us all be a part of his wonderful life!