Jan. 15, 1930 to Dec. 1, 2012
Richard was born and raised in Fairbury, Nebraska, the only son with five younger sisters. During the Korean War he served in the Marines and received a Purple Heart. When he returned, he worked as a teacher, and then finished college in Greely, Colorado where he especially enjoyed his time playing in the marching band. He was recruited as a Navy officer and served his country until 1980, retiring as a Captain at Coronado Navy Amphibious base. He met Hazel Babe Fouts, who became his bride in July of 1959 and they raised a family of four children. He is survived by his devoted wife Hazel, son Michael Chirnside and wife Beth, daughter Theresa Navarre and husband Jim, daughter Monica Venetos and husband John, daughter Maria Chapple and husband Mark, and ten grandchildren: Tim, Lauren, Jessica (husband David), Lindsay, Luke, Julia, Kyle, Brandon, Chelsea, and Cassidy. Memories of Richard include his love of photography (always had a camera with him), sailing, and especially his good humor, easy going nature, and love for his family. He attended St. Gregory the Great Catholic church and belonged to the Knights of Columbus. The Vigil will be at Clairemont Mortuary, Thursday, December 6th, at 6 p.m. with Rosary at 7 p.m. Services will be at St. Gregory the Great in Scripps Ranch on Friday, December 7th, at 10 a.m. with reception to follow. Committal Service at Miramar National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m.