Richard Eugene Hettinger

Richard Eugene Hettinger, a beloved father, grandfather, husband, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025.

Born December 20, 1944, in Watsonville, California, to Leo and Lucille Palmer Hettinger, his family settled in Redding, by the Pacific Cascades and the Sacramento River. Throughout his youth, hunting and fishing with his father and three brothers gifted him with an enthusiasm for the outdoors, which he delighted in sharing with his children, whether fishing, catching toads in the backyard, or exploring national parks.

After graduating from Shasta High School in Redding, California, in 1962, Richard, known to friends and family as Dick, enlisted in the United States Air Force, following in the brave footsteps of military service as did his father and brothers. His service began at the Air Training Command in 1962 at Keesler Air Force Base, where he worked as a technician in training in aircraft electronics; and Richard continued his training with the Strategic Air Command at Walker AFB until 1966 when honorably discharged from active duty. He was then enlisted in the Reserves for two additional years. He took great pride in service to his country and excelled as a technician, where his commitment to excellence earned him the Good Conduct Medal, a reflection of his dedication to his craft and to his fellow airmen.

Richard then traveled through Europe, often hitchhiking, where he met his first best-ever friend, Deborah, with whom he later had two beautiful children. Upon returning to the United States, Dick went on to earn his A.A. in Speech from Chabot College in 1968, a B.A. in Political Science (Honor) from California State University, Chico, in 1970, and, due to the confidence and self-discipline he gained through his life experiences, a Juris Doctorate in 1974 from the University of the Pacific McGeorge School of Law. While there, he was active in student government, environmental law, counseling students, and was a guest lecturer at other colleges. He developed a love of spirited political debate that lasted throughout his life.

Dick successfully completed the California Bar exam and began his legal career in Sacramento and Davis. In 1980, he relocated to San Antonio, and after passing the state bar, he expanded his practice by becoming an Estate Administrator. He was later appointed as an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Texas and then joined and became a partner at Sawtelle, Goode, Davidson, and Troilo (now the Law Offices of Davidson, Troilo, Ream, and Garza), where he went on to become certified in bankruptcy law. He was often commended for upholding the principles and ethics of his profession.

Though proud of his achievements, Dick knew that money was never the ultimate goal; he hoped to instill this in his children. The importance of family and the value of working hard to ensure stability and happiness were life's goals. Dick loved restoring classic cars and hunting for antique bottles, a pastime he began with friends in college and continued throughout his life. Dick was known for his ability to strike up a conversation with anyone, whether a stranger or a lifelong friend. His warmth, friendliness, and storytelling made him a natural conversationalist. He will be remembered for his love of family, sharp mind, and generous spirit.

The family is grateful for the outpouring of support from friends and neighbors. A kind thing done with thoughtfulness is a precious gift. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, a sister, and his youngest daughter, Audrey. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Jennifer; his children, Michael, Annaliese, Kirsten, and Jeffery; and six grandchildren. His family is grateful to all those who worked with him from the Guadalupe Regional Medical Center, along with friends, for their continued support.

Visitation will begin on Saturday, October 11, 2025 at Faith Lutheran Church at 9 a.m. followed by funeral service at 9:30 a.m. with the Reverend Jeremy Pederson and Chaplain Emanuel Carpenter officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park. A reception will follow at 12 noon in the Activity Center at Faith Lutheran Church.

Memorial contributions may be made to any local veterans organization.