Ricardo Melendez

Surrounded by family, Ricardo Shadowdancer Ortega Melendez was gathered into the arms of his Creator, his beloved parents Simon and Margarita, and his Ancestors, as the sun set on May 14, 2025, in his homeland of Ventura, California.

A U.S. Air Force veteran and respected Chumash Elder, Shadowdancer was descended from thirteen generations of California Spanish and Mexican ancestry. He was a ninth generation California native. He was of Chumash, Tamien Ohlone, Yocut, and Salinan descent. In 1977, he joined the Air Force, serving as a medic aboard C-9 aeromedical evacuation flights based out of Scott Air Force Base in Illinois. He completed four years of active duty and an additional year in the Air Force Reserves before transitioning out in 1982.

It was during one of these flights that he met LeAnn, the love of his life and the mother of their cherished daughter, Cori. Though their marriage ended, their deep friendship and mutual love remained unshaken—LeAnn continued to be his lifelong best friend.

Shadowdancer’s life was marked by resilience. Despite facing numerous life-threatening health battles, he persevered time and again. Upon becoming a resident at the Veterans Home, he dedicated himself to the well-being of others—offering wisdom, support, and service. He participated in numerous committees and volunteer groups, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and leadership.

He is survived by his daughter Cori (Jeremy) and beloved grandson Iverson; his brother Roy (Irma), sister Marta, and sisters Mariza (Kevin) and Marlena (Scott). He also leaves behind many beloved Tíos, Tías, primos, nieces, nephews, and their children—especially those who lovingly knew him as TíoRick. Family was everything to him, and his warmth and presence will be missed deeply by all.

A Celebration of Life will be held to honor Shadowdancer'slegacy on June 6th, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Perez Family Funeral Home, located at 3150 Loma Vista Road, Ventura, California.

Military honors will be rendered in recognition of his service to our country. In keeping with his wishes and cultural traditions, attendees are welcome to wear attire that reflects the spirit and vibrancy of his heritage.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Wishtoyo Chumash Foundation or the Native American Veterans Association in Shadowdancer’s name.