Richard Alan Piña

Richard Alan Piña, passed away at the age of 51 on June 7, 2019, in the comfort of his home while in the embrace of his wife, Jennifer, surrounded in love by his sons and beloved extended family and friends. He was born in Wichita, Kansas, and was later raised and adopted by his grandparents, Anita Alfaro and Jess Piña in Hutchinson, Kansas.
Richard was a fighter in all aspects of his life: from premature birth in an atmosphere of adversity, to overcoming Guillian Barre Syndrome in his youth and later stage IV colon and liver cancer. Richard did not let pain, insurmountable difficulties or fatigue get in the way of his goals. He battled thru his life valiantly as his motto was: “Nobody gets behind a quitter.”
Richard did not know a stranger. He loved people, especially his family, fraternity brothers, the Blues music community, closest friends, and co-workers at Sharpline Converting. He valued all of his friendships, praying for each person and sharing his love of Christ with others.
Richard excelled academically, achieving an Associate of Art at Hutchinson Community College, Associate of Business at Central Business College, Bachelor of Graphic Design from Friends University, and later an Executive MBA from Friends University. He loved program and business development and his favorite study was ‘The Art of War’. Richard was an avid runner and enjoyed his time on the track team at Hutchinson High School, Central Christian, Kansas State University and Hutchinson Community College.
Richard met the love of his life while attending Wichita State University during a function for Kappa Sigma Fraternity. It was love at first sight, with a proposal of marriage delivered on the first date. Richard and Jennifer married 3 years later once they had completed their studies at the University, later welcoming their 4 sons. Richard adored his wife, “Jenny”.
Richard passionately loved his sons and valued his family most. From snuggling with his young boys on a Saturday morning, to taking them everywhere he went, his life work was to help open doors and opportunities for them to grow and develop. As young teens, Richard helped the boys in their passion and pursuit of Blues music, helping them develop the Piῆa Brothers Band. Richard created all the poster artwork and media preparations for the band and transported them to their gigs. Richard enjoyed traveling and watching his sons play at different venues and events, including the Blue Star Connection, The Youth International Blues Showcase twice in Memphis, Tennessee, and their highlight performance when the band received the opportunity to open for the Los Lonely Boys.
Richard had a passion for civic events and while employed at the Child Care Association, actively created the event Treasure Island which was a huge success for reaching out to youth during Riverfest. Richard had a passion for sports management and helped provide consultation to the Kansas Cougars Football Team and the Wichita Skyhawks.
Richard adored his grandfather, Jess Piña, and lived his life in honor of him. Richard is survived by his wife, Jennifer Piña; sons, Andre, Brandon, Christopher and Jesse Piña; sister, Jessica Piña; cousins, Christopher Hanley and Kimberly McFadden, and numerous relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m., June 22, at the Reliance Community Church in Wichita.
Memorial established with https://www.gofundme.com/richard-pina-family-medicalfinal-expenses
Arrangements by Downing and Lahey Mortuary West.