Richard Albert Lordge

Dick passed away on February 7th, 2016 at the age of 84. He was born on October 19th, 1931 in San Jose, CA., the eldest son of Wilfred and Jeanne Lordge. In his youth, Dick was an active member (with his father) of the Native Sons of California (Golden West) and ran track in high school. Dick was raised Catholic and loved his faith receiving all holy sacraments. He graduated from Lincoln High School in San Jose. Dick enlisted in the Army in 1951 and served honorably stationed in the states and Japan. Upon discharge, he took a job in the printing industry in San Jose and later moved to Sacramento to work in the State Printing Plant where he remained until his retirement in 1991. Dick was an active member of the Vorlage Ski Club for many years. In 1970, Dick and his wife, Leialoha, purchased 10 acres of land in Pleasant Grove and began building the family ranch. They designed and built a house, barn and fencing to support various animals over the years including cattle, pigs, and even turkeys. Dick was a skilled mechanic, craftsman and repairman who, along with his family, transformed the property into a comfortable home and successful ranch. Dick was exceptionally kind, generous and humorous. He made friends easily and was always available to help friends and neighbors in need. His community involvement in the Pleasant Grove Fire Department, South Sutter Little League and East Nicolaus High School boosters were defining experiences in his journey. After retirement, Dick and Lei traveled extensively in their motor coach which, utilizing his mechanical skills, he restored and repaired. They were members of the Family Motor Coach Assn., Western Bus Nuts travel group and the Carmichael Elks club. Dick loved his family above all and was always there to assist them and provide wise advice. He is preceded in death by his brother William, and is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Leialoha, daughter Susan Reynolds (Gary) and son Michael (Margherita), grandchildren Joseph, Ariana, Matteo, Isabella and Marco. Also survived by cousins Mary Andrade and Michael Berryessa, brothers-in-law Joseph Belardi and Marty Beote, sisters-in-law Moana Beote, Lani Freshwater, Kahala Lincoln and Mahealani Ballew. Also survived by 10 nephews/nieces and several great nephews/nieces.