Richard Dean Axline, long-time Lompoc resident, passed away on October 2, 2014.

Richard was born on February 18, 1930 in Detroit Michigan, the son of Vern and Helen Axline. Richard joined the United States Air Force in 1948. His primary occupation in the Air Force was as a photographer which he turned into a lifelong profession. He spent a tour of duty in Thailand during the Vietnam War where he taught school to local children in addition to his military duties. He retired from the Air Force in 1971 after 22 years of service, out of Vandenberg AFB.

He worked on NASA Apollo tracking ships after his retirement from the military and had a number of photography related jobs throughout his career. He was a long-time member of the Lompoc Valley Art Association. He won numerous awards for his photography and routinely displayed his photos around the central coast, including numerous Flower festival displays. Richard was also previously a national level competitor and instructor of roller skating. Richard was a proud patriot who rarely was seen without his USA or Olympic themed attire.

He is survived by his brothers Roy Axline and Robert Axline, his second wife of 36 years Bessie Axline, seven children, Jodean Axline, Rich Axline (wife Marina), David Axline (wife Wenchi), Greg Axline (wife Linda), Jill Foster (husband Richard), Lori Dode (husband Rod), Jeff Axline (wife, Kath); step-daughter Margo Lister (husband Steve), 16 grandchildren, and 11 great grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his son Mark Axline in 2007. He also survived by his dear friends Marion and Don Savella.

Services will be held at the Calvary Baptist church in Vandenberg Village on Saturday October 11, 2014 at 4:00 pm. All who knew Richard are welcome to attend. In the spirit of Richard attendees should dress casually and wear red, white or blue colors to the service.