

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.
Vigil will be at Clairemont Mortuary, Thursday, December 6th, at 6p.m. with Rosary at 7p.m.Funeral Mass will be at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church in Scripps Ranch on Friday December 7th at 10 a.m. reception to follow. Committal service at Miramar National Cemetery at 1:30p.m. to send Family flowers call 1877-894-0431 use code #51197
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