Richard L Preston Sr.

Richard Leroy Preston, Sr., a man of robust spirit and deep devotion to his family, passed away peacefully at the age of 81. Born on October 15, 1944, in Dodge City, Kansas, Richard was the son of the late Orville Otto and Alice Barnes Preston. He grew up in Hutchinson, Kansas, graduating from Hutchinson High School before embarking on a distinguished 30-year career in the United States Navy, rising to the rank of Master Chief before his retirement.

Richard’s life was anchored by his beloved wife of 52 years, Betty Gerald Preston. She was the center of his world, and his unwavering love for her was evident to all who knew them. Together, they built a large and vibrant family. Richard was a man of many interests; he could often be found with a fishing pole in hand, solving a crossword puzzle, or meticulously crafting wood clocks. He had a lifelong fascination with history and trains, and he never missed a chance to cheer for his favorite teams in baseball, hockey, or the high-speed thrills of NASCAR. Above all, he cherished his family and his close circle of friends, and he loved the time spent traveling with those closest to him.

He is survived by his wife, Betty; his children, Angela Michele Fraguela, Richard Leroy Preston, Jr., Denise Suzanne Kerce, Gregory Charles Preston and his wife, Bethany, and Marsha Wynne Preston Sablan and her husband, Benjamin; and his brother, David Lester Preston and his wife, Shirley. His legacy lives on through his ten grandchildren, Patrick, Aaron, Cassandra, Kirsten, Rob, Olivia, Nathan, Alex, Skylar, and Aidan, as well as seven great-grandchildren: Raynor James Preston, Evelle Suzanne Owens, Maeve Preston, Kyler James Owens, Harland Jay Silva, and Scarlet Rose and Maysyn Grace Jones. He also leaves behind dear friends who became family, Christina and Jerry “Woody” Woodburn, and Vanessa Russell, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Richard was predeceased by his son, Tracy Eugene Cantrell, and seven siblings: Alta Mae, Orville “Bud,” Waneeta, William, Hazel, Joetta, and Mary Janice.

In the words of the Navy Hymn: “Eternal Father, strong to save, whose arm hath bound the restless wave… O hear us when we cry to Thee for those in peril on the sea.”

The sea may take the sailor from our sight, but never from our hearts.