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BORN
1939
DIED
2017
Richard Givens Obituary
July 4, 1939 – December 4, 2017
Richard D. Givens (Dick) died on Monday, December 4, 2017 at home after a courageous battle with cancer.Dick is survived by his wife, Sonya Sheffield; his sister, Gail Givens; his children, Leslie Sarandah (Basem), Amy Givens, Katie Amoroso (Josh); and his stepchildren, Kimberly Evans (Dave), John "Tripp" Sheffield (Fua); and Brennan Sheffield (Erin). He also leaves behind 11 grandchildren.
The son of a National Park Ranger, Dick was born in Yosemite National Park to Violet and Frank Givens on July 4, 1939. Dick was recruited out of high school to play for an ML farm team. After a year of baseball, he accepted a full scholarship to Stanford. From Stanford, he headed to UC Hastings Law School, spearheading a law career of more than 50 years.
An active sportsman, Dick counted fly-fishing, duck hunting, and skiing among his favorite pastimes. Later, he developed a passion for cycling.
Committed to giving back to his community, Dick served as Board Chairman, Lupus Foundation; President, Menlo Park Rotary and Rotary Foundation; Regional Chair, Relay for Life; and Board Chairman, Pacific Chamber Orchestra. Dick also co-founded Menlo Park's Tour de Menlo charity bike ride.
A private memorial service will take place in January. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pacific Chamber Orchestra, or The Rotary Club of Menlo Park/Tour de Menlo.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Givens
1 Entry
Gerard Garland
April 14, 2018
Great sense of humor. We had lots of laughs during school years; lost touch for many years after. Re-connected (via email) early 2000's. Later, Marion Kinter (wife) and I were in Redwood City for her hand surgery June 2015 and had a memorable time with him and Sonya. Treated us to "Babylon Beach Blanket" stage performance in San Francisco. He helped a lot w/logistics related to the surgery; waited for us far into the night for pain pills at distant pharmacy, the patience of Job. I'll miss him.
Gerard (Gerry) Garland
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