|
Per research done by Fred Kemmerle: Deceased January 1, 1976 (Mendocino County)
October 12, 2015: I received the following email from Barbara Crane Del Bono:
"Richard was my brother...I am from the class of 1967. I thought I'd like to post my contact info (Babsdb@outlook.com) in case someone wants to get in touch with me re: my brother's death in 1976."
I responded and asked Barbara if she was willing to share more information and this is what I received on October 13:
Hi Harry:
After graduating from Carlmont and fooling around at CSM for a while, Richard was drafted into the Army around 1966. He did his basic training and "signed up" to be in the 173rd Airbourne division. He, at 19 years old, was taught to jump out of airplanes into the jungle and kill people. He was wounded but went back for a second tour. Our cousin, Louis Grothe was killed there in January 1967. Richard and Louis were as close as brothers. Richard was sent back a second time.
We all remember how these boys were treated when they came home.
He didn't seem to fit in in Belmont anymore so he moved to Lake County. He worked at a Chevy repair shop until he got on with the Lakeport Fire Department. He met and married Julie Rinder and they had a little girl named Jill.
That marriage ended after 4 years. Richard then moved to Covelo CA and met and married Christy Campbell.
He ended his own life there on January 1, 1976. He had fought his "demons" on a daily basis for all those years and they finally won. I don't think he ever really had any hope that he would find peace in this world.
I think it is a sad damn story...one I try not to dwell on, but it is always there. You may edit this anyway you see fit or give me a call or email if you want any more or different info.
Barbara DelBono
Babsdb@Outlook.com
650 594-1445
|
Vincent Silvera
Richard was a sweet, quiet guy. He was shy and, like me, lacked some degree of confidence, but I liked himfor his good nature. Affable and funny, but he seemed to have some inner demons. I was told that he was regrettably killed when he rolled his car in Lake County, CA in the late 60's. I have since learned otherwise ..... that he was a victim of a gunshot. I have no way of substantiating either story. I do know that many who went to 'Nam either did not return or were shell-shocked when they came home. PTSD is what it is called now. Life can be very cruel. I lived on the same block on Furlong Street in Homeowner's Association near the tracks in Belmont. He will always be remembered fondly.
Gene Lenzi
Yes, a real nice kid! I remember he got a brand new '66 El Camino that was really something at the time. Demons? I know he spent a year in 'Nam and, although it's been a long time, I'm pretty sure he was with the 173rd Airborne. No fun there, they really caught it at Dak To. From experience, I have met very few fellow Viet Nam vets who don't have a lot of demons from the fun in the jungle. I didn't see Rich much after he returned to the World because I got drafted soon after he returned, but it is very saddening to hear how things turned out for him.
Tom Larsen
Richard was a good guy. We both had 1953 Fords, and his key fit my ignition. One Saturday night we were all at Tenitas Creek, parked on the cliff, before you walk down to the beach. After the campfire and a few brews, we climbed back up the cliff at midnight, and my car was gone. I believe Rich drove it home, and somehow our group all got home, but the details are sketchy. I think I got a ride from Don Delbono. Those were the days. Barbara has all the dates and details on her brother.
Art Mitchell
He was the nicest guy and didn't deserve how things ended for him.
Charley Ice
Richard was a buddy from Homeview, came to all my birthday parties. He's famous for breaking into a giggle he couldn't stop and we all were breathless before cake. We went through Scouts together and were next in line for Order of the Arrow when our Scoutmaster retired and the troop collapsed. His demise has haunted me ever since, as it could have been me except that I was deferred for college. I pay my respects every day. My heart goes out to Barbara, sweet sister. He's a good reason to keep up the good fight for a better world.
So nice to "hear" from Vince and Gene, btw -- sorry to miss you at the reunion!
Dennis Martin
What a sad and beautiful memorial. I am sorry for your loss, so many years ago.
Gary Cornell
Richard Crane. A Close Friend From Hillsdale Methodist Church and Carlmont
Looking back now that I am 75 years old, Richard was one of the nicest friends in my life! His Mom and Dad new me from church and his mother was a substitute teacher in my classes at Ralston Junior High! Richard was shy to others but not to me. We met when we were only in the first grade! Over the next 14 years we grew up together. My memories of a Rich are of a good friend with a warm smile! That smile served him well. Richard had many friends both in our church and at Carlmont!