Floyd L. Dameron, a long-time resident of Lompoc, passed away suddenly on Tuesday, May 13, 2014 at his home.
Floyd was born December 2, 1935. He was born to Roy and Floy Dameron and came from a family of seven children. After growing up in Delhi, CA, he attended Livingston High School and Modesto Junior College. He played football for both schools. Floyd attended California Polytechnic University at San Luis Obispo. He worked while attending college to pay for his own education. Floyd graduated with a degree in soil science.
After college graduation, he married Barbara Allinson in 1957. Their union was a true love story. Floyd and Barbara first met each other in first grade. Six-year-old Floyd introduced himself by giving Barbara a valentine card in their elementary classroom. Love bloomed from there, and the two attended high school and went to prom together. The couple stayed connected while each attended different colleges by writing love letters back and forth until they graduated.
After they married, Floyd and Barbara purchased their first home in Lompoc. Floyd was employed at Vandenberg Air Force Base, and later built a successful insurance career in the Valley. After retiring from his insurance business, he spent his senior years substitute teaching for Lompoc Unified School District, where he was affectionately received by students and staff alike.
Floyd loved to travel. He and Barbara visited sites all over the world, and during those travels, they were often accompanied by family members. Floyd also loved to fish with his brother Jim, and shared annual fishing trips to Oregon. Another favorite annual vacation included accompanying their longtime friend Ruth on trips to Maine, where they spent many summer evenings by the lake.
Floyd has been active member of the First United Methodist Church for decades and has served on many church committees. He was also a life member of the Lompoc Elks Lodge. Upon hearing of his death, many friends have expressed their appreciation for Floyd's generous and uplifting spirit. He was a true optimist in life and love.
Floyd is survived by his loving wife Barbara of 57 years, daughter Lynell Hanck, son-in-law Patrick Hanck, granddaughters Megan Hanck and Emma Hanck, all of Los Gatos; Brother Jim Dameron of Tracy; Sister Doris Rodocker also of Tracy; Sister Bonnie Meade of Delhi; and sister Frances Scipi of El Sobrante.
Services will be held at the United Methodist Church on Monday, May 19 at 11:00 am with a reception to follow. Donations can be made to the First United Methodist Church Foundation, 925 North F Street Lompoc, CA 93436.