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FUNERAL HOME

Dudley-Hoffman Mort, Crematory & Memory Gardens

1003 E Stowell Rd

Santa Maria, California

Richard Vertrees Obituary

Richard Allen Vertrees

March 18, 2025

Richard Allen Vertrees, age 90, passed away March 18, 2025. Resident of Santa Maria, CA. Arrangements are under the direction of Dudley-Hoffman Mortuary, Crematory and Memory Gardens www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Santa Maria Times on Mar. 21, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Vertrees

Sponsored by Dudley-Hoffman Mort, Crematory & Memory Gardens.

3 Entries

RHETT RONALD VERTREES

March 27, 2025

Richard Allan Vertrees, born January 1935, and the Lord promoted him and took him home on March 18, 2025. He was the son of Kenneth and Grace Vertrees and was a beloved husband, father, stepfather, and community member.
Richard proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Higbee shortly after graduating from Santa Maria High School in 1953. Throughout his life, he exemplified dedication and resilience. As an entrepreneur in the printing business, Richard started working for his father at Ken Vertrees Printers in Santa Maria at the age of ten and ultimately carried on the tradition until he retired at 88 years old, leaving a lasting legacy in the community. The print shop continues serving the community through his son Ral.
He married the love of his life, Donneita Vertrees, on May 7, 1983. Together they shared many joyful years, building cherished memories. Richard was an outdoorsman at heart and loved the Sierra Nevada Mountains, finding peace and beauty in nature. He also held a deep connection to his childhood home in Colorado, where people still remembered him 75 years later when he returned to visit his old homestead in Oak Creek.
Beyond his career, Richard was an active and committed member of various organizations. He was a proud member of the Elks Lodge, the Eagles Lodge, and the President of the Santa Maria Optimist Club. His dedication to his alma mater led him to serve as the President of the Santa Maria High School Alumni Association, fostering connections and celebrating the school´s history. Richard was also a member of the Santa Maria Pioneer Association, where he maintained lasting friendships within the local community.
A man of diverse talents and passions, Richard earned a second-degree black belt in Judo, demonstrating discipline and strength. He is remember for being the only American to throw the touring Japanese Judo Champion at the time. The Japanese Champion was not pleased and ultimately won the match but recognized Richard by giving him the trophy. In his youth, he lettered in swimming during his high school years, showcasing his athleticism and determination.
Richard is survived by his beloved wife, Donneita Vertrees; his sons, Richard(Clay), Ral, and Rhett; as well as his stepchildren, Tricia Merchant, Larry Ferine, and Sally Donaldson, their spouses and many grandchildren and several great grandchildren. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made to the Santa Maria High School Alumni Association in his honor.
Richard Allan Vertrees will be deeply missed, but his legacy of strength, kindness, and dedication will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know him.
Your Boy's will miss you! We Loved you very much.

Kathleen Vreeland

March 24, 2025

our hearts goes out to Donitia and family. It is hard to loose the special loved ones. Our prayers goes with the family. Thank you ALL for ALL your loving support with my father, Roland Lanini. We appreciate you. RIP

James Jepsen

March 21, 2025

Richard was always a warm, caring and collaborative friend, with a great sense of humor. I'm glad to have known him. He will be missed.

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Dudley-Hoffman Mort, Crematory & Memory Gardens

1003 E Stowell Rd P.O. Box 248, Santa Maria, CA 93454

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