Richard Van Bebber

In loving memory of Richard Don Van Bebber of Aiken, passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the age of 88 years. He was a devoted husband of Sharon Van Bebber, loving father of Richard, Vanicia, Deana and grandfather to his four grandchildren.

Richard was born on March 2, 1937, in Oklahoma. He spent the majority of his life in Brawley, California where he met and married his high school sweetheart Sharon. They recently celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary. Richard was an outdoors enthusiast and especially enjoyed hunting and fishing. Richard had a great sense of humor, he was a storyteller and a hard worker. He began working at ten years old shining shoes. He was proud of being a “Fruit Tramp” and in between the harvest seasons, a carpenter. His skilled hands built room additions, porches, cabinets, out buildings on their mountain property. But his sawdust magic was in the intricate birdhouses that he made for each of his grandchildren.

Richard is survived by his wife, Sharon; his son Richard and his wife Missie; and his four grandchildren: Mistilyn, Ian and his wife Daio, Brooklyn and Madelyn.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved daughters Vanicia and Deana.

As our family struggled to find the words Richard’s good friend Ricky R. provided, “Well as we get older we all have to go through heartache and this has happened again to someone we love and respect. Like a lot of us in the fruit tramp industry we had our grandparents and parents work in produce. It was a way of life. When I was young it was a special experience to hang around the people and sheds, almost magical to work with them everyday. It was hard work, but was in our blood. There have been extraordinary individuals that have shaped our experiences and Richard was one of the special ones. He made the hard work a little better with his quick wit and sincerity that is unusual because most of the old timers were quiet and reserved. They knew things us youngsters didn't understand yet, we had to prove we belong there. Richard always helped me get through the day with his work ethic and just being a special person. He was not fake or phony, I can't even remember all the funny situations and words of wisdom he bestowed on me. He was a beacon of light and a role model all wrapped up in sweat and kindness. We miss him already and he cannot be replaced. Our hearts are hurting but we have the hope that he is happy and with loved ones he has missed.”

A private memorial will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the City of Hope, a cause close to his heart.

SHELLHOUSE - RIVERS FUNERAL HOME, 715 EAST PINE LOG RD. AIKEN, SC