Richard Clayton

Richard Clayton passed away in his sleep, Saturday, September 19, 2015, at his home in Paso Robles surrounded by family. He was courageous, good humored and graceful through his struggle with cancer. Born in November 1948 in Chicago, Illinois, he grew up in Orange, California. He graduated from Orange High School. At a young age he worked at his father's car lot repairing automobiles. He met his wife, Barbara Clayton in high school and they were married in 1969. Richard served his apprenticeship as a carpenter remodeling homes and building bridges. Upon completion of his apprenticeship he joined the Operating Engineers Union and operated heavy equipment. Richard became a Superintendent of many projects on California Freeways and Public Works. A favorite project memory was building the temporary trusses on the 110 Freeway that enabled the construction of HOV lanes. Among his proudest accomplishments were the reconstruction of the Devil's Gate Dam in Pasadena, the Seaward Bridge over the 101 Freeway in Ventura and the extensive work he did on his and his family's homes. Richard acquired his contractor's license and founded RC Clayton Construction. Before retiring, he had built a reputation for quality work and was known for his willingness to help any and all when an expert hand was required on projects big and small. Richard was generous to a fault. He would give anything asked of him, no matter the sacrifice. He took pride in his family and the loving environment he created. He was a foster parent to over 20 children. As his family grew he became known to all as, "Pops." He mentored many children to believe in themselves, work hard, and be kind and honest. Pops will always be remembered, as "Santa Claus" to friends, neighbors and family, not only for his looks, but for his generosity and his big heart. He leaves his wife, Barbara (Bougher) Clayton; his daughters, Michelle Galles (Joel), Heather Clayton (Craig Towers); his adopted and guardianship daughters: Alyssa and Kassidy Clayton, Natasha Finley (David), Brandy Hardy (Matt), and Anne Dutcher; his adopted sons, Shon and Depariz Clayton. He is also survived by grandchildren, Shane Clayton (Reanna), Justin and Jordyn Galles, Luke Finley and Emma Hardy; his great- granddaughter, Maizey Clayton. His sister, Mary Clayton and his sisters-in-law, Ellen Harvey and Liz Garfield (Wayne); his nephews, Joshua Flowers and Zachary Harvey and his in-laws, Harold and Irene Bougher, whom he loved as parents, as well as his foster children and a loving extended family. As Richard always said, "Love ya, later, bye!" His was a life well lived in his honor a Celebration of Richard's Life will be held October 11, in his home, 708 Pino Way Paso Robles at 1:00pm. In Richard's honor we ask that you give forward and make a donation to merkelcell.org or Camp Taylor Kids Heart Camp at 5424 Pirrone Rd., Salida, California, 95368, in Richard's name. Arrangements under the direction of Kuehl-Nicolay Funeral Home, Paso Robles, CA.