Remembering Richard Maretti

Posted: Apr 2, 2010 8:28 PM by Ariel Wesler
Updated: Apr 2, 2010 8:28 PM

Friends and family bid their final farewells this morning to a well-known and long-time Guadalupe resident.

Richard "Dicky" Maretti passed away last week. He was 81. Maretti co-founded the Far Western Tavern in Guadalupe more than 50 years ago.

In the small town of Guadalupe, it's hard not to notice the Far Western Tavern and harder to forget its co-founder and former owner, Richard Maretti.

"He was a good partner and hardworker," said Clarence Minetti, who opened the tavern with Richard more than 50 years ago.

Since then, it's been a family affair and Maretti made sure everyone put in their best effort.

"He started us as busboys, cleaning the bar, dishwasher, cook. We've done it all," said his son John Maretti.

Maretti's family described him as the life of the party, outgoing, and outspoken.

"Never missed a kids baseball game or football game, was always the loudest one cheering," said Tami Quintana, one of Maretti's granddaughters.

"He was a friend. He was a grandpa. If anyone had a problem, they could turn to him," said Melissa Mier, one of Maretti's granddaughter.

The Far Western was his second home, a place where Maretti loved sharing stories and meeting new people.

"Spent a lot of time watching him back behind the bar bartending, watching him interact with customers, and this is where he really shined," Quintana said.

"He'd touch your hands, put his hands on you and say 'God bless you son.' Thanks a lot for coming in today,'" said Jim Marks," a long-time customer and friend.

Maretti's other love was his wife, Jean. The two were married for 63 years and lived in Guadalupe the entire time. A navy veteran, Maretti was also an active member of the American Legion.

"One of his favorite quotes was always 'What's right is right' and I never could make sense of it, but that's what he always told me, but I'm going to miss him, truly miss him," said his son John.

More than three hundred people showed up to remember Richard Maretti. He is survived by two children and seven grandchildren.

In place of donations, the family asks that memorials be made in his name to the Marian Foundation, or any other charity.