Richard Leo Chelini

Richard Leo Chelini, a beloved husband and father, passed away at his home in Sacramento on July 19, 2024 at the age of 87. Born in 1937 in Sacramento, CA to Leo and Elenor Chelini, Richard dedicated his life to his family and enriching the lives of those that were fortunate to know him. Richard attended McClatchy high school between 1952 and 1955 where he played basketball and developed an affinity for engineering. He graduated from California State University, Sacramento in 1961 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, and went on to have a distinguished career in public service as a civil engineer with the Bureau of Reclamation, as a Dam and Small Projects Loan Engineer where he contributed to numerous important water conveyance projects including the construction of the San Luis Reservoir as part of the Central Valley Project and the Salinas Valley Seawater Intrusion Program. Richard was well respected by his peers and known for his hard work and dedication in working to overcome problems and providing solutions on challenging groundwater related issues.

Richard met Carol Proske while on a ski trip (that was probably their first and last ski trip). After dating for three years, Richard and Carol were married on June 24, 1961at Immaculate Conception church in Sacramento where Richard’s brother, David Chelini, was the Best-Man and Carol’s sister, Arlene Kassis, was the Maid-of Honor; they were married for 63 years. The next three years brought Richard and Carol three sons, Loren, Stephen, and Gregory, to whom they dedicated their young lives in raising.

Richard loved playing sports and he brought his engineering mind to any sport he played; breaking down plays and researching how to improve the mechanics whether in basketball, baseball, softball, bowling, or golfing with his friends. He brought this same love, discipline, and intrigue of sports in supporting his sons’ activities while they were growing up. He was instrumental in the development of the College Glen Little League fields where he also coached his sons’ Little League teams. As his sons started playing football, basketball, and baseball at Jesuit high school, he rarely missed attending any of their games and was always supportive. Later in life, Richard found immense joy in following and attending his grandchildren’s various sports activities.

After retiring from a career in public service in 1994, Richard embraced a love for travel. Purchasing a 5th-Wheel trailer, he and Carol explored the United States for many years. They traveled extensively, exploring new places and cultures and developing new friendships wherever they visited. Their travels took him all over the United States as well as several countries in Europe.

With an often-serious demeanor coupled with his 6’-5” height, Richard could often appear stern or intimidating, but he had a big heart and always put other people’s needs first, as those that knew him can attest. Catholic faith was important to Richard and would act as a guide in how he lived his life and engaged with others. His faith also served to comfort him upon the loss of his son, brother, and two nieces in a tragic accident in December 2021.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Carol Chelini, their sons, Loren and Gregory, and countless family, friends, and loved ones. His legacy is one of love, dedication, and support of others. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

Vigil and Rosary will be held at St Mary's Catholic Church (1333 58th Street, Sacramento, CA) on Monday August 12, 2024, 6:00 pm. Catholic Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary's Catholic Church (1333 58th Street, Sacramento, CA) on Tuesday August 13, 2024, at 10:30 am. Committal Service will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery (6509 Fruitridge Road, Sacramento, CA) on Tuesday August 13, 2024, at 12:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity or local food pantry. Thank you!