Richard Donald Gepford

13, 2025 after a short battle with gastrointestinal cancer. Don was a resident of

San Diego for 65 years. He was born on May 20, 1936, in Chicago, Illinois and also

lived in Quapaw, OK, and Joplin, Mo.

He left Joplin when he enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1956 as an Airman Recruit E-1. As

a result of his distinguished enlisted service, he was commissioned as an officer in

1970, a rare and exceptional achievement. Don continued to enjoy a successful career

in the Navy and retired in 1993, after 37 years of service, at the rank of Commander.

He married his true love, the former Charlene Cook, in 1957, and they enjoyed an adventurous

and loving marriage until her sudden death in 1984.

Don made multiple West Pacific deployments during his career, was a veteran of the

Vietnam War, and the recipient of numerous awards and decorations. He was also selected

to represent his service and country in personnel exchange programs with the

navies of both Australia (1971-73) and the United Kingdom (1978-80).

Don took full advantage of his retirement years and led a life that many would envy.

He leaves a high standard on how to live life to its fullest. He had amazing adventures

traveling throughout the U.S. and the world with close friends and family. He was also

an avid skier, taking up the sport in his 50s. He worked very hard on his sport and became

an excellent downhill skier, which he continued until he was 86. During the

off-season he was a cyclist and loved biking around San Diego. As he liked to say, biking

and the gym kept him in shape for ski season. One of the great legacies he leaves

behind are the annual bike trips he organized for his family and friends throughout Europe

which, without fail, included plenty of amazing wine from the various regions of

Europe. Don was a force of nature and will be sorely missed by friends and family.

Don is survived by his children Charles Gepford, Stacy (Gepford) Kreysar, four incredible

grandchildren, and one great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his

wife, Charlene Gepford, and his brother Bob Rapp.

Don will be laid to rest at the El Camino Memorial Park in Sorrento Valley next to his

beautiful wife Charlene. A memorial service will be held in the El Camino chapel on

January 28, 2025, beginning at 11:00 a.m. followed by a celebration of life reception at

the 94th Aero Squadron.

Expressions of sympathy and memories may be offered to the family at www.sorrentovalleychapel.

com.

Don had great respect for enlisted personnel and was very much aware of the difficulties

they can face from time to time. In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate

memorial donations be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society.

Fair winds and following seas…