Richard Gale Rayburn Sr.

RAYBURN-Richard Gale Rayburn, Sr., 92, died peacefully on November 28, 2010 in Pasadena from just old age. A third generation Angeleno, son of Fred and Ellen Rayburn, Rich grew up with his brother, Bud, and sister, June, alongside the olive and orange groves of the rural Sylmar / San Fernando area. He attended UCLA, earning his degree in mathematics in 1940. He soon was commissioned an officer in the US Army. During WW II he lead an artillery unit in the Aleutian Islands and Philippines, and was preparing for invasion off the coast of Japan when peace was achieved. He remained in the Army as a reserve officer, retiring as a full colonel. He was married to Nina Tuttle of Medford, Oregon for 47 years until her passing in 1993. Together they set new roots in Altadena against the San Gabriel Mountains where he lived happily for 54 years. A land appraiser and negotiator for forty years, he helped establish major land uses in Southern California: highways, universities, Dodger Stadium, military installations and conservation areas. With Nina he raised their five children--Rick, Rob, Renee, Ryan and Roxanne--and he was dearly loved by 11 grandchildren. For decades, he enjoyed Disneyland, the Rose Parade, the pier at San Clemente, and Bruin and Dodger games with his family. He loved his Dobermans, gardening, playing scrabble, a good game of cards, and the holidays--and even in his latest years, mailed Christmas packages to his grandchildren, always wrapped in foil paper and curled ribbon. He greeted everyone he met with a wide smile. He was always deeply committed to make a better world for others and served as leader of Altadena Little League, Loma Alta girl and boy scouts, Pasanita Dog Obedience Club and MAI-Appraisal Institute. As little league president, Rich established a requirement that all kids play in every game. Later this became a nationwide rule. He was extremely personable, and loved working alongside other volunteers. Rich's service will be held at 1:00 pm December 11, 2010, at Chapel of the Gardens, 2300 N. Marengo Ave, Altadena, followed by a gathering honoring Rich. Last tag, Grandpa!