Richard Thomas Gist

Richard "Butch" Thomas Gist, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home on June 18, 2024 at the age of 78. He was born on February 11, 1946, to Tom and Bernice Gist, in Tulare. In 1979, Butch married Clare Gomes. He was the youngest of four children and lived a life rich with love, innovation, and community spirit.
Butch attended St. Aloysius Catholic School and was a part of the first graduating class of Tulare Western High School in 1964. He graduated with a pioneering spirit, demonstrated by digging the Greek Theater at Tulare Western during his senior year. Driving the tractor from Gist Farms to Tulare Western and working right up until the time of his graduation.
He took immense pride in residing in the same home his grandfather once lived in, the very house where he was raised. This connection to his roots was a cornerstone of his life, providing a stable foundation for his family in Tulare where he lived all his life to continue the legacy of Gist Farms, which his grandfather started in 1886. Butch sincerely valued the relationships with his Gist Farms Family, many of which have been employees for over two decades or more. Including Marvin Davis, his friend and partner in D and G Chopping who had worked with Butch for over 50 years.
A wine enthusiast with a unique touch, Butch enjoyed spending time with his family, often with a glass of wine (with four ice cubes) in hand. He was a wonderful cook, known for his culinary creations crafted without the need for recipes. His inventive spirit was not limited to the kitchen; Butch held four patents, which is a testament to his relentless pursuit of knowledge. Embodying his "learn by doing" motto and his passion for engineering, he earned his very own personal B.S. Degree in Engineering.
Butch's contributions to the community were profound. He supported local youth and organizations, always eager to lend a hand or share his wisdom. He was a great contributor to the youth in FFA and 4H including purchasing many animals at the Tulare County Fair. His dedication to local businesses was evident as his iconic yellow truck made regular stops at Morris Levin & Son, (there were always parts to pick up), Hydraulic Controls, California Industrial Rubber, Phelps and every morning at Salle's Cafe, where he had breakfast with local farmers and friends. Butch's support of the community extended beyond his presence; he was known for his generosity and the genuine interest he took in others' lives.
In 2009, Butch was honored with the Tulare County Farmer of the Year Award, a testament to his hard work and innovative contributions to agriculture. He was also inducted into the Tulare Western High School Wall of Fame in 2019, in recognition of his lasting impact on the community. In 2019, he also received the California Distinguished Service Award for Gist Farms, from the State FFA organization.
Butch's legacy is one of creativity and kindness. Known for sketching new designs on napkins whenever he saw a need for improvement, he never knew a stranger and made everyone feel welcome. His most recent passion was planting his own wine grapes, with dreams of producing his own wine-a true testament to his adventurous and entrepreneurial spirit. Survived by his loving family, numerous good friends and a community that cherished him, Butch's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Butch leaves behind the treasures of his life, wife, Clare Gist, children, Brooks Gist (Kandi), Marrs Gist (Cindy), Swannie Mendonsa (Brian), grandchildren, Krystal Doss, Braxton Gist, Brogan Gist, Coultin Gist, Chastine Gist, June Mendonsa and Violet Mendonsa, sisters, Pat Shirley (Paul), Dorothy Gist as well as many nieces and nephews. As he would often say when parting from family, "wuv you". We will cherish the fond memories forever and he will be greatly missed.
There will be a celebration of Butch's Life at 4:00 on Wednesday, July 10th at Gist Farms. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Madera Children's Hospital (Valley Children's Hospital), in Richard "Butch" Gist's name.
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