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Richard Miron Severson was born in Anaheim, California, on October 28th, 1927. In 1945, shortly after high school, he enlisted in the Merchant Marines, where he served during the final stages of World War II. Upon his return, he married his high school sweetheart, Barbara May Wells, on August 17, 1947, in Los Angeles, California. In 1961, the couple fulfilled their dream of owning a ranch by purchasing property in Ballico, California. There, he farmed almonds for over fifty years and actively participated in the local farm Co-Op, Cortez Growers. In 1962, they became members of the Delhi Presbyterian Church, where they were actively engaged in parish life. Richard served on multiple occasions as both Elder and Deacon, demonstrating his deep commitment to the church community. His devotion to his faith was profound, and he regarded the congregation as an extension of his family. Life in Ballico, on the farm, provided a wonderful memories in raising their three sons: Rick, Michael, and Scott. They remained on the ranch until 2013, when Richard and Barbara moved to Samaritan Village in Hughson, California. Richard had a deep passion for farm life and remained actively involved on his son Scott’s ranch well into his eighties. As a father, Richard was deeply committed to supporting his sons in their various extracurricular activities. He was an active member of the Ballico PTA, where he was honored with a lifetime membership, and he also dedicated his time to the Boy Scouts, serving as a Scoutmaster alongside his three sons. Fishing was another cherished pastime he shared with his sons, fostering in them a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors. Beyond his role as “dad, Richard served as a volunteer firefighter with the Ballico Fire Department for many years. He also took on the role of Santa Claus for events, through the fire department. Richard and Barbara found great joy in traveling, embarking on numerous trips in the family RV. These journeys were taken to various destinations across the United States, as well as Canada and Alaska. However, his travels were not limited to the RV; he also explored several countries throughout Europe, further enriching his lifelong love of adventure and discovery. One of Richard’s greatest joys in life was becoming a grandfather. He treasured the opportunities to celebrate birthdays, holidays, and sporting events where he would be found beaming with pride and joy. In his later years, he found fulfillment in nurturing his many plants and flowers, creating exquisite one-of-a-kind watercolor paintings, and avidly following his favorite sports teams, the Golden State Warriors and the San Francisco Giants. In 2017, Richard was thrilled in becoming a great-grandfather, a milestone he deeply cherished. He often expressed his gratitude by saying, “I always hoped I would get to see this day—not many do!” His love and joy for his great-grandchildren was unmistakable, and the sentiment was wholeheartedly reciprocated. Visits to "Great-Grandpa" were filled with cherished moments, including T-ball games outdoors, wheelchair rides around the property, and Lincoln Log building sessions on the living room floor—where he could still be found sitting beside the children, fully engaged in their play. He is survived by his beloved wife of 78 years, Barbara, as well as his three sons: Rick (and Lynn) Severson, Michael Severson, and Scott (and Kimber) Severson. He also leaves behind five grandchildren—Alex, Maya, Jeffrey (and Liz), Claire, and Kiku Severson—as well as three great-grandchildren, Sienna, Liam and Lucianna Severson. Though he will be greatly missed, his family is comforted in knowing that he leaves behind beautiful memories and a beautiful legacy that will live on in all the hearts of those who loved him! Benediction- You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you. Wherever you are, our Lord has a purpose in you being there. Christ who indwells you has something he wants to do through you were you are. Believe it and go in his grace and power. A Graveside service will be held at 11:00AM, on Saturday April 26th, 2025, at Turlock Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any donations be made to Delhi Community Presbyterian Church. 15917 El Capitan Way, Delhi, CA 95315-9754.

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Richard Miron Severson

October 28, 1927 - March 16, 2025