We are saddened to share that Richard Stephen Whitcomb passed away at home, where he wanted to be, on the morning of Thursday, March 12th.

He had been experiencing a gradual decline due to multiple health issues, yet he continued making plans to finish his latest hot rod, all while being lovingly cared for by his family.

His mother called him "Richard the Lionhearted"—a fitting name for a strong and kind man who lived life on his own terms.

In his youth, he lived with his family in Walnut Creek, where there was enough land for horses, a creek to get into trouble in, and plenty of room to grow into the hardworking and independent man his parents raised him to be.

His love of motorcycles and cars began in his teens and never faded. From cruising Main Street in Walnut Creek to attending—and even entering—local car shows, he always had a shop full of projects in the works.

Though he grew up a bit of a wild one, his love for his siblings was always evident. As the big brother, he looked out for them in the best ways he knew how—bringing sweets to his youngest sister, watching over his sisters closer in age, and mentoring his brother through life and a plumbing career.

He married our mother in the late 1950s and settled in Martinez. Early in their marriage, they moved to Fort Benning, Georgia, where he served in the Army for two years as an armor specialist and rifle expert. Afterward, they returned to Martinez, where he spent the next 16 years as a devoted family man, working countless weekends to provide for his family. During this time, he joined Plumbers Local 159 and trained as a journeyman plumber.

Later, he moved back to Walnut Creek, where the family once again enjoyed country living—complete with almond trees, horses, and, of course, another shop. Motorcycles remained a central passion. Even through divorce, the family maintained a close relationship and continued to share many happy memories.

He spent 25 years as a skilled plumber before retiring early to fully invest in the things he loved most.

Eventually, he made his way to Orland, where he met his beloved wife, who survives him. There, he built lasting friendships—especially with fellow car enthusiasts who shared his passion. He built what would become his final shop, his "church," where he spent the last 20 years. We are grateful for that time—endless hours spent together, enjoying "cold ones," kicking tires, sitting in the sun, and listening to music.

In a town small enough that nearly every local business knew him, he was a familiar and welcome presence—often bringing candy and a joke. You couldn't walk far with him without someone stopping to say hello.

We are also grateful that he came to know Jesus. Though he didn't attend a traditional church, he knew Who had provided for him and Who created the beautiful world we live in. Because of this, we hold onto the hope of seeing him again one day.

He is survived by his wife Letitia Whitcomb, daughter Kelly Parkinson, daughter Shari Mejia, daughter Kim Gainza, daughter Tori Whitcomb-Letner, brother Fred Whitcomb, sister Felicia Tefs, sister Melody Burg Whitcomb, 7 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren.

"Richard will be remembered for his kindness, strength, loyalty, humor, and unwavering love for those around him. His legacy lives on in the memories he created and the lives he touched."

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at the Valley Church 5063 Maple Road Vacaville, California at 11:00 AM. Immediately after the service burial will be taking place at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery in Dixon, California.

Arrangements are held under the direction of Sweet-Olsen Family Mortuary.