Richard Earl Selby

Richard Earl Selby, age 64, peacefully passed away on January 18, 2012 under the care of Hospice. His sisters, Gloria Senger and Phyllis Larson were at his side. A full honor military service will be held on Friday, February 17, 2012, at 11AM at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, N.D. Richard will be laid to rest with his younger brother, DeWayne Selby, who was killed in Vietnam at the age of 19, at St. Mary's Cemetery, Bismarck. Richard was born to Earl and Alice Selby on August 13, 1947, in Bismarck N.D. Richard graduated from Bismarck High School and later joined the Navy, where he inspired unparalleled confidence in his abilities as a Plane Captain of A-7B number 504 aircraft. The responsibilities of a Plane Captain are tremendous involving a multimillion dollar aircraft and the life of the pilot who flies it. Richard made a never-ending effort to better learn his aircraft systems by utilizing his valuable off hours in research. He could also be found assisting various experts on individual systems performing maintenance on his aircraft. Richard was an asset to division moral with his unfailing cheery personality and sense of humor. From February 18 to Sept 7, 1969, he served on the USS Ticonderoga aircraft carrier that inflicted extensive damage on the enemy's communications and transportation network in Vietnam. Richard was awarded the Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon for his service. Eventually Richard moved to Lodi and he started his own business-Rich's Landscaping. His customers not only had a great respect for him, but a love for his generous and humorous nature. He would always go the extra mile for his customers. He served as President of the California Landscape Contractors Association in this division. Richard would drop in on his many supply companies where everyone enjoyed his humor and smile. In 1995 Richard met JoAnne DeAngelis. They moved in together in 2003. Eight months later Richard was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. Joanne became his loving companion and devoted caregiver. They joined the Lodi Parkinson's Support Group and a whole new group of friends entered his life. The last 11 years of his life his greatest pleasures came from spending special occasions and holidays with JoAnne's daughter's family, Julie Dennis Hughes and grandsons Jeff and Tom. He was happy to attend the wedding of Jeff to Sylvia Villa, gaining a granddaughter. Some of his happiest times were his trips back home to North Dakota to see his family who loved him dearly. He was a man that never lost the love of his longtime friends and it was a most exciting time for Richard when he was planning his visits home. Richard's hobbies included golf, fishing, watching old western movies and going to the Stockton Speedway to watch car races. He loved his music; country western and old rock and roll songs. Richard leaves behind many longtime friends who loved him. He was never too busy to lend a helping hand or do a favor for someone. Richard leaves behind one son, Tim Selby; three grandsons, Ty John of Utah, Brett and Baily of Lodi, CA; sisters, Gloria Senger Frank, Phyllis Larson Glen, ND; along with many nieces, nephews and several great nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Lodi Parkinson's Support Group, Farmers and Merchants Bank, 2401 West Turner Road, Lodi 95242.

Richard Earl Selby

August 13, 1947 - January 18, 2012