A. Richard "Dick" Apple

Our dad, who was a wonderful father, is now happy to "be with Bev" in heaven, as he has been ready to be since our mom passed in 2018.

Much beloved, respected and admired by those who knew him, his passing on May 18, 2024, was not at all sad. At 96 he couldn't nearly live the robust, active, accomplished life he'd always lived. Any sadness is only for those of us who will miss him.

His full life certainly would qualify for overachiever status. From student body president and captain of the football team to early usage of his people skills to earn the respect of his shipmates in the U.S. Navy when circumstances put him into a leadership role rarely held by such a young "newbie," his later-in-life contributions in and around Lompoc won many hearts of those who knew him.

His career with Lockheed took him to become corporate director of contracts, skills from which he later donated through his volunteer work with the Lompoc courts.

His love of golf brought him to greatly benefiting Vandenberg Village Country Club (now The Mission Club), serving many changing roles, including, of course, club president.

A deeply religious man, his development of stewardship perspectives and methods over 50 years ago at Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church in Chatsworth (Los Angeles County) are still employed and admired by many to this day.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Adrian and Bessie Apple, as well as his siblings, Mary and Bruce. He is survived by daughter Sue Farcello, granddaughter Shayni, grandson Cody, and three great grandkids — Mersadeys, Jake and Talon. Along with son Rich.

A small family service at Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery will be at a future date. Even though our dad even put in writing less than a year ago "no celebration of life event," there are too many in Lompoc with so much love and respect for the man that some informal gatherings, raising of glasses and sharing of memories will no doubt take place.