Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
BORN
1938
DIED
2025
FUNERAL HOME
Richard Olchawa Obituary
Born on January 26, 1938 in Chicago, Illinois to John and Marion Olchawa. Richard was a devoted Catholic whose life was marked by dedication to family, service, and learning. He graduated from Chaffey High School and continued his education at Chaffey College before serving his country as a Radio/Radar Operator in the U.S. Navy.
Following his military service, Richard built a successful career spanning four decades. He worked for Union Carbide for 20 years and another 22 years at FFTF Hanford as a team supervisor, pipe fitter, field supervisor and Mechanical shop manager. His professional life reflected his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.
Richard had a lifelong passion for science and activities that brought him closer to nature. He enjoyed the outdoors, loved both playing and watching golf. He also enjoyed fishing and camping pursuits that brought him joy and peace throughout his life.
He was a warm and wonderfully compassionate man, a caring husband and father to five children. He shared close bonds with four siblings and was cherished by many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and friends. His kind thoughts, laughter, bright smile, and positive outlook on life touched all who knew him.
Richard's legacy of kindness and curiosity lives on in the hearts of those he touched and all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to share in his journey.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Olchawa
4 Entries
Bill Chiquelin
September 14, 2025
This is the type plane Dick flew on in the cold turbulent air above the North Atlantic. About 21-25 on a 16 to 24 hour mission. At times the blowing snow at Argentia Naval Air Station made visibility almost zero. Because of their critical mission, they had to takeoff. The runways were lined with fir trees, and they would use the planes radar to "view" the runway. With these conditions, the plane would not land in Argentia, but at Keflavik, Iceland or in the Azores. They were loaded with the latest radio and radar technology, which was quite heavy. Notice the minimum ground clearance of the "connie" due to the lower radar dome. Radio communication with the U.S. was required every 5 minutes. These men provided critical early warning on both the DEW Line and the Barrier Line. Fighter jets were scrambled to threats they found. Critical Cold War missions, maintaining constant surveillance of both the air above and the sea below. As both a radio and radar Navy specialist, Dick had an instrumental job.
Bill Chiquelin
September 14, 2025
I had the pleasure of working with Dick at FFTF. I conversations I learned that Dick flew with my Dad back in the 50's. Dad was the pilot of an Navy WV2 (aka EC121) airborne early warning plane out of Patuxent Naval Air Station and Argentia Newfoundland. Dick was the radio/radar operator. They flew the Airborne Early Warning DEW line over the North Atlantic. Rest In Peace Dick.
Bruce Bowman
September 11, 2025
Richard was a great supervisor to work with at FFTF. I enjoyed working with himon many projects to achieve our goals.
Sandi Gray
September 11, 2025
Dick was a great guy, a pleasure to work with. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results
Make a Donation
in Richard Olchawa's name
Memorial Events
for Richard Olchawa
How to support Richard's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Richard Olchawa's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
