Richard R. Lowe

In loving memory of our father, Richard R. Lowe, who passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on July 31st, 2024. Born in Woodland, California, Richard lived a full and remarkable life defined by his passions for architecture, music, and urban planning. His work took him from the halls of the University of California, Berkeley, to the bustling cities of Massachusetts, where he attended MIT, and finally to the shores of Hawai'i, where he contributed to the design of the Hawai'i State Capitol.
Richard was a man of many talents. A gifted pianist, he played regularly at Nordstrom for years, delighting patrons who would sit down for hours to listen to his playing. He also performed at Nico's Pier 38, charming audiences with his boogie-woogie tunes. His love for music was a lifelong pursuit, beginning at the age of 14 when he taught himself to play on his mother's Steinway Model M, an instrument that remained with him throughout his life.
In 1966, Richard married Lorna Whitcombe, originally from the Fiji Islands, and together they raised three children: Jennifer A. Lowe, Vanessa E. Beaton, and their late son, Jonathan Lowe. Their marriage of 48 years was a testament to their deep love and commitment to one another. Lorna's passing in 2014 was a profound loss for Richard, but it was through this time of grief that he found an extraordinary friendship with Bundit Kanisthakhon.
Bundit, an architect and university professor nearly half Richard's age, became one of Richard's best friends. Through Bundit, Richard became involved at the University of Hawaii at Manoa's School of Architecture, where he spent a lot of his time in his later years mentoring students. Bundit was a constant companion and a source of joy and care in Richard's later years. Their bond was one of pure affection and mutual respect, transcending generational, cultural, and political divides. It was a relationship built on the simple yet profound act of showing up for one another, whether for a meal, a class, or a slice of chocolate cake. In Bundit, Richard found a connection that reinvigorated his spirit, a rare and beautiful friendship that brought him comfort and companionship until the very end.
Richard was deeply committed to supporting the next generation of innovators and thinkers. For many years, he dedicated his time to interviewing local students applying to MIT, spending 2-4 hours with each candidate, meticulously writing and editing summaries of their potential. One memorable student lived in a tent on the beach and was ultimately accepted into MIT, a success in which Richard's tireless efforts undoubtedly played a significant role. His commitment to these students was unwavering, and his impact on their futures was profound.
Richard is survived by his daughters, Vanessa E. Beaton and Jennifer A. Lowe, Jim Beaton, his son-in-law, his cherished friend Bundit Kanisthakhon, and his grandchildren: Nion Nichols, Jonathan "Liam" McTigue, Kaya McTigue, Brock McTigue, and Briscoe Beaton. He leaves behind a legacy of love, creativity, and resilience, inspiring all who knew him. Richard's warmth, wit, and kindness will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to share in his extraordinary journey.
Celebration of Life will be held Friday September 27th, 2024 from 8:00-10:00 am at the Outrigger Canoe Club. Parking is very limited due to construction in the parking lot, please come early and/or carpool. On Monday September 30th at 9:30 am his ashes will be interred with his wife Lorna at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific (Punchbowl) with a military gun salute. All our welcome.