Richard H. Cahl was born June 14, 1939 in Elyria, Ohio. During his youth, Dick enjoyed adventures with friends within the hemlock forests of Cascade Park, an 145 acre park where the east and west branches of the Black River cascade over Berea sandstone converge offering rivers, waterfalls and lush woodlands.
Dick loved being part of a team as a young boy and played both football and basketball. He attended Elyria High School and earned Letterman in Varsity Football. In 1957, Dick's senior year, he was awarded Linebacker of the Year. As a young man Dick enjoyed working as a Park Ranger and Lifeguard at Cascade Park, down the street from where he grew up.
Later he worked as a Land Surveyor apprentice and draftsman. He met his future bride by chance as they worked across the street from each other and on June 23, 1962, Dick married Sandy Long. After getting married in their hometown of Elyria, the two newlyweds drove cross country, settling in Southern California.
Dick graduated from Cal State University, Long Beach with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. Working his way through school, Dick graduated Magna Cum Laude and as a member of the Scholastic Honor Society. In 1974, Dick started his own land surveying and engineering firm, Jones, Cahl & Associates. Dick and Sandy Cahl were married 61 years, raised two daughters, Sheri and Kristi, and created homes in both Huntington Beach, California and Bend, Oregon.
Dick enjoyed many activities, such as: camping, scuba diving, playing his ukulele and traveling to Hawaii with Sandy. Most of all, Dick loved spending time with his family. He was a practical man and always strived to make the best possible decisions, considering all aspects, when regarding his family. His love and devotion to his family was unlimited. Dick was Sandy's best friend, as she remembers his unwavering friendship; Always there to help, respecting her feelings and giving his gentle guidance. He was an understanding man, patient and forgiving. Dick Cahl was Kind, Honorable, Loving and Fun.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents; Maynard and Rose Cahl and his brother; Jim Cahl. He is survived by his wife; Sandy Cahl, daughters; Sheri (David) Groos, Kristi (Morgan) Criswell, grandchildren; Hana Groos, Ellie Groos, Keeley Groos, Jaden Lentz, Keaton Lentz and Lexi Criswell.
Services for Richard (Dick) Cahl will be held on June 27, 2024 at 12:00 pm in the Westminster Memorial Park Main Chapel, 14801 Beach Blvd., Westminster, CA 92683. (714) 893-2421. The family will be hosting a reception to follow the chapel service at the Beachwalk Clubhouse.
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