Richard died peacefully at his home in Morgan Hill, surrounded by loving family members and friends. He was born in San Jose, a descendant of founding orchardists and farmers in the Santa Clara Valley. He lived for a few years in Hollister and graduated from San Benito High School.
As a youngster he worked on his grandparents ranch on Dry Creek and May Kirk Roads in San Jose, and had a long career with P G & E, from where he retired in 1987. He loved to travel, fish, camp, SCUBA dive and especially loved to hunt with long time friends and family. He worked hard and played hard.
Richard is survived by his much loved wife of over 30 years, Jill Kirk. He was the proud and loving father of Michele, Neysa (Jad), Mitchell (Kelly), Colette, and step-children Suzi (Lee) and Eric (Yvonne). He was adored by his 19 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son, Mark Richard. He was a friend to everyone he knew, was always willing to lend a helping hand, and had the most wonderful and often unique sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by all whose life he touched.
There will be a celebration of his life on Sunday, March 13, at 3:00 P.M. at the Community & Cultural Center, 17000 Monterey Rd., Morgan Hill, CA.
He was proud of his membership in the Golden Rule Lodge of the Masons, The Scottish Rite, and of his lifetime membership in the NRA.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Hospice of the Valley, 4850 Union Ave., San Jose, CA; or Morgan Hill Community Foundation-Senior Center Endowment, PO Box 1974, Morgan Hill, CA 95038
