Richard Wayne Deso

Richard Deso, 91, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2025, in Brooksville, Florida. Born on January 20, 1934, in Swanton, Vermont, Richard lived a life marked by service, dedication, and unwavering faith.

Richard earned his bachelor's degree in electronic engineering from Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts. His early career was defined by his commitment to his country; he served honorably in the United States Army from 1953 to 1961 as a sergeant in military intelligence with the Army Security Agency stationed in Helemano, Hawaii. Following his military service, Richard continued to contribute to national efforts by working with NASA in Iran, where he managed a satellite tracking station.

After returning stateside and transitioning from military life, Richard devoted himself to youth development through the Boy Scouts of America. Over the course of 36 years, he held numerous professional positions within the organization and played a pivotal role in shaping young lives. His leadership extended beyond scouting—he was instrumental in securing the Sandhill Scout Reservation for the Boy Scouts of America West Central Florida Council and Tampa Area. During this time, he also served for nine years as an auxiliary state police officer in Connecticut.

Richard’s entrepreneurial spirit led him and his wife to own and operate a hearing aid business in Clearwater, Florida for five years. He was known for his resourcefulness and skill as a handyman—always ready to fix what needed fixing—and for his generous heart that never hesitated to help family or friends.

A man of deep faith and devotion, Richard was a faithful servant of God who lived out his beliefs through action. He mentored countless children over the years and remained active in numerous civic and community organizations. He was a past Grand Knight with the Knights of Columbus at St. Joan of Arc Church and participated actively in several clubs including the West Hernando Coin Club, Citrus County Coin Club, Florida West Coast Antique Automobile Club of America, Rotary Club of Virginia, Kiwanis Club of Clearwater, the West Pasco Civil Air Patrol and the Nature Coast Art League.

Richard found joy in life’s simple pleasures—fishing trips by quiet watersides, camping under starlit skies, painting vibrant scenes with his grandsons by his side. He had a passion for antique cars and coin collecting that connected him with fellow enthusiasts across generations. His sweet tooth was legendary among those who knew him well.

He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Alice M. Deso; son, Jason R. Deso; daughter-in-law, Vickie Deso; grandsons, Tyler and Dylan Deso; sister, Betty-Ann Bowler (Deso); brother, Donald Deso; as well as several nieces and nephews.

He now joins those who passed before him: his father, Clayton Deso Sr., mother, Elizabeth Ek Deso; brothers, Clayton Deso Jr. and Robert Deso; and sister, Corinne Deso Peters.

Richard’s legacy is one of steadfast service—to country, community, family, and faith. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him and continue to inspire those whose lives he touched.

A Visitation for family and friends will be held from 1:00pm-3:00pm and 5:00pm-7:00pm on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at Merritt Funeral Home Spring Hill (4095 Mariner Boulevard, Spring Hill FL 34609), where a Celebration of Life will take place at 6:15pm.