Richard "Dickie" Q. Quitoriano's Obituary
Richard “Dickie” Querubin Quitoriano, age 77, of Oxnard, California, passed away peacefully at Cedars Sinai Hospital on November 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Richard was born on October 1, 1948, in Ewa, Hawaii, to Ramon and Ricarda Quitoriano. Growing up, Dickie embraced the island spirit - playing team sports, surfing when he could, and practicing Kenpo Karate. He attended James Campbell High School, but was forced to transfer to Waianae High School to graduate just weeks before graduation after being expelled for bravely defending a friend from a bully – an early reflection of the protector he would always be.
After high school, Dickie’s mother lovingly “kicked him off the island,” knowing his passion for surfing might keep him from pursuing his next chapter in life. He moved to Ventura, California, where he enrolled in Ventura College’s art program. His studies were put on hold when he joined the U.S. Army in September 1969, serving in the Vietnam War. During his time in the Army, he received two Bronze Service Stars before being honorably discharged in December 1971. Soon thereafter he returned to Ventura College to continue his education.
In 1976, Richard married Suzanne Gilbert, with whom he shared a child with. Though they later parted ways, they remained lifelong partners in parenting. On September 10, 1989, Richard married Emma Querol, his beloved life partner, whose love, laughter and steady presence brightened his days and was a comfort in his later years. Together, they raised three children and built a life full of devotion and unwavering support.
Richard was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, protector, dedicated “house spouse”, bowler, veracious sudoku and mahjong player, coach, mentor and number one cheerleader at all his children’s sports games and events. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered with love.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Ramon and Ricarda Quitoriano, and his stillborn daughter, Baby Quitoriano. He is survived by his wife, Emma Quitoriano; his children, Seth Quitoriano and his wife, Loan, of Long Beach, and their children, Liam and Lana; Ramon Antonio Quitoriano and girlfriend, Louchelle, of Oxnard, and their son, Louka Kekoa; as well as Richard II Quitoriano and Emari Quitoriano, both of Oxnard; and siblings Salvador (Betty Ann) of Hawaii, Raymond (CJ) of Hawaii, Roland (Jeanette) of Virginia, Devina (Mike) of Hawaii, and Roxanne (ErnestU) of Washington. He is also survived by multiple nieces, nephews, and extended family that fondly refer to him as “Uncle Dickey”.
A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. at Ivy Lawn Funeral Home, 1075 E Daily Dr, Camarillo. Friends and family are warmly welcomed. In honor of Dickie’s wish and joyful spirit and love of island culture, guests are encouraged to wear colorful or floral attire, such as Hawaiian-print shirts or dresses. For donations, please Venmo @EmariQuitoriano.
A private internment of Richard’s ashes will be held at a future date at Santa Clara Cemetery.
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