Richard Dale Firman

Richard Dale Firman was born on September 24th, 1939 and quietly passed away on April 12th, 2026.

He was 86 years old. He is survived by his wife, Erna Sam Firman. His children, Dale, Peggy, Troy, Danny and Richard. And his grandchildren, Cole, Chad, Dylan, Cameron, Chris, Ricky, Raquelle, Reylene and Robin. He is also survived by his two sisters Deanna and Dori.

Richard was born in Ottumwa, Iowa. He later moved to California with his parents, Richard and Nadean. He grew up in Covina and West Covina. His first job in High School was with Fred’s Ranch Market.

After graduating from Covina High School he attended Mt. Sac Junior College studying Engineering. Shortly thereafter he married Bonnie Thompson and had two kids, Dale and Peggy.

Due to his amazing work ethic, he worked his way through upper management with Alpha Beta Supermarket for many years before embarking into the produce market.

Later, he met and married Erna Bergman and formed a family with her two kids, Troy and Danny. Richard and Erna went on to have a child of their own and in 1972, along came Richard Armen Kurt Firman.

Richard landed an excellent position with Progressive Produce in Los Angeles for a number of years and then created his own company which became DLJ Produce. In his final working years that company became a big success. He was in the produce market for over 35 years.

Richard and Erna owned a lovely cabin in Big Bear Lake, CA and spent lots of time up there enjoying the fresh air and nature itself. He was incredibly proud of his garden, growing tomatoes and huge yellow squash. They particularly enjoyed New Year’s Eve every year up there with close friends and marveled over the fireworks on the lake.

Through the years, Richard pursued many hobbies and interests. You might be surprised to know that he studied Karate and loved Karate tournaments. He learned to fly airplanes at a young age and played in a couple of night softball leagues. He loved taking his kids to the beach and did fun bonfires at night, eating Corn on the Cobb and roasting marshmallows by the fire. Eventually, bird watching up in the mountains peaked his interest.

He was well respected for his intellect, business sense and incredible work ethic. His most cherished

trait, as his friends and family can attest to, was his endearing generosity.

His life was rich with much love and many highlights and he was grateful for his friends and family.