Richard was born on April 17, 1940 in the Los Angeles, California area, and attended Temple City High School. After high school he joined the Army, served in Korea, and was always very proud of his service to the United States. On December 7th, 1968 he married Phyllis Joan Carmany, and they raised one daughter together; Stacy. Rich and Phyllis would’ve celebrated 51 years of marriage this December 7th. After his years in the Army, Rich, or Lonnie as he was referred by his siblings, spent 30+ years in the pool industry as a salesman, and later as a General Manager. His years in the pool business resulted in many moves and travels around the country, which were difficult at times, but produced many cherished family memories, and many friendships all over the United States.
Rich had a passion for good restaurants (especially Mexican), and good Scotch, or a good Margarita. He also enjoyed cooking, entertaining friends, and spending time with family. One of his favorite ways to spend a day was to head out on his boat (The Gina Nicole) with his beloved Boston Terrier, Chelsea. Rich was always up for an adventure and some shenanigans, much to the amusement, and sometimes worriment, of his family. Richard and his daughter Stacy shared a special bond as they both attended Temple City High School in Temple City, California, and enjoyed talking and laughing about the “good old days” in Southern California. Rich’s personality and heart were huge, as was his passion for living, and if anyone could’ve cheated death it would’ve been him. He will always be remembered for the twinkle in his blue eyes, his kindness and generosity, and his love for his family and pets.
Rich was preceded in death by his father, Augusta (Fred) Flippin, his mother, Nellie (Ruth) Klavon, his step-father Frank Klavon, and his beloved dog Chelsea. His is survived by his wife Phyllis Flippin, his daughter Stacy Garza (John Wehner), and his two cherished granddaughters Gina Marie Garza and Nicole Ann Garza whom he often referred to as the most beautiful girls in the world and his pride and joy. Rich is also survived by his brother Fred Flippin (Joan) and his sister Janet Flippin Slaton (Whalen), step-sister Gayle Klavon Pollock (Larry) and several nieces and nephews, Leslie Loop, Sandy Kramer, Jeffrey Flippin, Douglas Flippin, and grand-nephews Bradley Baker, Ayden James Flippin, and Dylan Scott Flippin .
A private celebration of life will be held in New Jersey in the spring. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Hospice of the Chesapeake.
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