John Richard Pangborn

John Richard “Dick” Pangborn, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2025, leaving behind cherished memories and a lasting legacy with all who knew and loved him. Known for his warmth, humor, strength, intelligence, and charisma, Dick lived life to the fullest.

Born in La Junta, Colorado, to Julia Dayle and Albert Arthur Pangborn, Dick had a vibrant and adventurous youth. He performed Indian dances nationwide as a member of the Koshari Indian Boy Scout group, even dancing aboard a Navy ship in San Diego and meeting President Eisenhower in Washington, D.C.

He later joined the National Guard, attended Otero Junior College, and then transferred to Colorado State College in Greeley, where he was a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. It was there he met the love of his life, Marilynn Gaye.

After earning his teaching credentials, Dick and Gaye moved to California, where they began their teaching careers in the Cajon Valley Union School District. In 1969, Dick took a sabbatical to serve as Assistant Professor at a Counseling Institute in Duluth, Minnesota. Upon returning to El Cajon, he continued his career as a school counselor and later fulfilled his dream of becoming an elementary school principal. He built lasting relationships with teachers, staff, and families, and was deeply respected by his colleagues for his dedication, leadership, and heart for children.

Dick had a passion for adventure and fun, especially with his family. He loved camping in the desert with the family dune buggy, Stanley, water skiing on the river, and snow skiing in Big Bear and Mammoth. A highlight was a month-long cross-country trip in a van and tent trailer, visiting family and friends across the Western United States.

He also treasured time with his lifelong friends, playing guitar, darts, racquetball, horseshoes, bocce ball, and eventually golf. An artistic soul, Dick created beautiful stained glass pieces and enjoyed fishing—whether at the lake, river, or ocean, especially at Windansea with his grandchildren. The Fourth of July was always a special occasion for Dick, as he loved hosting family and friends by the pool. He also had a special place in his heart for his dogs—his loyal companions in a house full of girls.

A devoted sports fan, Dick rarely missed a Padres game and attended the 1998 World Series in New York. He proudly witnessed Tony Gwynn’s induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, N.Y., and was a faithful supporter of San Diego State football and the San Diego Chargers.

Dick is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Gaye; daughters Pam (Mike), Carrie (Scott), and Lori (Derrick); and grandchildren Cassie (Brock), Nate, Nick, and Lauren. His strength, humor, love, and zest for life live on in each of them. We will continue to walk in his light and love.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, July 13 at 1:00 p.m. at the Silver Gate Yacht Club 2091 Shelter Island Drive, San Diego, California Please contact a family member if you plan to attend.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Rady Children’s Hospital in Dick’s honor.