Richard H. Fraser (Dick), 87, joined his Heavenly Father on May 15, 2017. He enjoyed a full and happy life. He leaves behind his wife, Darlene, of 65 years; four children, Jeanette Boyer (Corky), Barbara, Brian and Sandra (David) Pickles; three grandchildren, Rachel (Jose) Alvarez, Cassandra (Mathew) Andresen, ad Tyler Pickles; five great-grandchildren, Diego, Tristan and Makalea Alvarez, Lilliana and Erik Andresen. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Linda, and son-in-law, Roger Burris.

Richard was born in Braintree, Massachusetts and graduated from Braintree High School. He was the fourth of five children born to James H. and Grace M. Fraser, and was the sole survivor of that large family. He is survived by one sister-in-law, and many nieces and nephews of the Fraser family.

Richard spent his entire life as a photographer. He began in a local photo shop upon graduation; spent 23 years in the Air Force (retiring as a Master Sergeant in 1972). During his time in the Air Force, he served as a Combat Photographer in Korea and Viet Nam. Upon retiring from the Air Force, he went to work as a photographer for the Santa Maria Times for seven years, and subsequently spent 20 years with the Air Force as a civil servant again in photography.

Richard was a devoted husband and loving father. His wife and children were his life and he wanted to share the world with them and did just that throughout the years. Three years in Japan and three years in Germany were a learning experience for them. The purchase of a tent trailer provided the means to travel to Italy, Switzerland, Holland and France.

Richard's hobbies were photography and driving. His passion for taking family pictures can be attested to by the 70 albums his wife has put together. He would get behind the wheel for any reason and at the drop of a hat. He took at least 17 driving trips to see his family in Massachusetts (a 7000) mile round trip). Not to mention the numerous trips around the United States visiting friends and family.

He was deeply loved by his wife, children and grandchildren and will be sorely missed.

A visitation will be held at Starbuck-Lind Mortuary on Thursday, May 25, 2017 from 5-7 pm. Services will be held at 10 am on Friday, May 26, 2017 at the Queen of Angels Church on Rucker Road with burial following at the Lompoc Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at the family home following the burial at 3143 Courtney Drive in Mesa Oaks.

In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to your favorite charity.