Richard Lee Roy Hilden of Lompoc died Monday, August 17, 2015, at the age of 83.

Richard was born December 16, 1931, in Vacaville, California to Elmer and Clara Hilden, part of a pioneering family in the Vacaville area. He graduated from Armijo High School and went on to attend California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo. There he participated in the Cal Poly Diving Club and was the Commodore of the Cal Poly Sailing Club.

Richard joined the United States Navy in 1950 and served during the Korean War. Following his discharge he worked in the aerospace industry with General Dynamics, Lockheed Martin and the United Launch Alliance.

Formerly of Shell Beach, Richard has been a resident of Lompoc since 1964. He was active as a Boy Scout leader and was a member of the Vandenberg Aero Club. He enjoyed diving, sailing, traveling and especially flying.

Richard is survived by his wife of 61 years, Evelyn; his son Mark and his wife Jane of Los Osos; his son Dana and companion Sylvia Walters of Eugene, Oregon; his grandsons Christopher and Patrick; his granddaughter Ginelle Garrity; and his sister Shirley Yoder. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother James and his sisters Mary Chandler and Louise Teran.

Cremation will be followed by inurnment in the Lompoc Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held in the near future. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of choice. Starbuck-Lind Mortuary, directors.