Richard D. Anthony

Jun 26, 1929 -

Jul 5, 2020

Beloved husband, father and grandfather, Richard was born in Stockton, Calif., to Wilfred and Ruth Anthony. During his youth, his father taught him how to hunt and fish – recreational pursuits he enjoyed throughout his life. As an adult he also mastered carpentry and playing the bagpipes.

In his final semester at college, the Korean War started. This gave him an excuse to leave home for some "action." He immediately joined the U.S Army. After completing basic training, he was sent to Korea. He fought in the infantry and later as a paratrooper. While on leave, he met Helyn Josephine King whom he married shortly after. They had three sons: Richard David Anthony Jr., Robert Charles Anthony and William James Anthony.

Subsequently the Vietnam War began. He fought in that war in the infantry and as a paratrooper. He also had a tour of duty in Germany. His family joined him there. During this time he completed his B.A. degree and pursued a career in the Army.

Toward the end of his military career, Richard was stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska. The family settled into their new home. He had found paradise and decided to retire where he could hunt and fish to his heart's content.

After 23 years of service he retired with the rank of Colonel.

Never to remain idle, Richard took a job with the Municipality of Anchorage. It was during this time that his wife Helyn unfortunately died from cancer.

While working at the Municipality of Anchorage he met Betty Lou Thompson. They married. After 29 years of marriage Betty Lou also died from cancer.

Not only was Richard a patriot, he was a gentleman. Even at the age of 90, with a painful hip from his paratrooper days, he would pull himself up on his walker to offer his seat to a lady at a doctor's office.

We miss him.

Richard was preceded in death by his first wife, Helyn Josephine; sons, William and Robert; and second wife, Betty Lou.

Interment is at the National Cemetery in Riverside, Calif.