Richard Chris Scotten

Richard Chris Scotten, affectionately known as "Dick" to his family and friends, was born in Yuba City, CA, on December 28, 1932. On July 5, 2025, he was called home to be with his beloved wife, Marlene, with whom he shared over 65 years of marriage.

Dick proudly served in the California National Guard and dedicated 23 years as a volunteer firefighter with the Yuba City Fire Department and Walton Fire Protection District, retiring with the rank of Captain.

His work ethic and hands-on skills were evident throughout his life. He trimmed trees, applied stucco, and worked as a can line foreman at the Del Monte cannery in Yuba City, CA, during the late 1950s and early 1960s.

In 1962, Dick followed his passion and opened his own business, Scotten Welding and Fabrication, in Yuba City.

A self-taught welder and fabricator, he became a trusted name among Central Valley farmers, repairing and building equipment, including one of the area's first tree shakers.

His talent and determination led him to join the Boilermakers Union, where he was one of only two individuals to pass their TIG welding certification test at the time. He later applied his expertise working on the Rancho Seco Nuclear Power Plant.

Dick was also a gifted athlete. He played semi-professional baseball for the Yuba City Bears, Linda Cubs, and other Valley league teams in the 1950s.

Though offered a minor league contract, he chose family over fame. He continued playing fast-pitch and slow-pitch softball for over 50 years, retiring from senior softball at the age of 83.

A man of many interests, Dick was an avid bowler and a proud member of the Yuba Sutter Men's Bowling Association, achieving a high 3-game series score of 759 in 1964.

He loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, gold mining, rock hunting, and cutting firewood. Known for his sense of humour and generous spirit, he brought joy to those around him and never hesitated to lend a helping hand.

Dick is preceded in death by his wife, Marlene Scotten; father, Jesse Scotten; mother, Ida Slack; brother, Trusten Scotten; and son, Gerald Scotten.

He is survived by his sisters, Ida Mae Dasis and Wendy Ray; children, Dell Scotten, Gail Scotten, and Les Scotten; five grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at 9:30 AM, at the Sutter Cemetery. A private family gathering will follow.