Daniel David Richard Jr.'s Obituary
Daniel David Richard Jr, age 97, of New Orleans, Louisiana passed away on April 22, 2023 after living a full life.
Dan Richard was born on March 22, 1926 in Thibodaux, Louisiana. There, fond childhood memories were made outdoors among many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. After graduating from Thibodaux College, he attended Louisiana State University, becoming an avid Tigers football fan, which he would remain for life. Prior to completing his Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, he served in World War II on the Pacific front in the US Navy. Subsequently, he moved to New Orleans and accepted his first job as an engineer at Avondale Shipyard, where he would remain a faithful employee until retirement. Before becoming a family man, Dan enjoyed the liveliness of the French Quarter, sailing on Lake Pontchartrain, driving his convertible Corvette Stingray, and trips to the shores of Grand Isle and Destin.
After his heart was finally tamed by the beautiful and quiet Rose, they settled in Lakeview and began their family of 5 children. He became a dedicated and hardworking father. In addition to his job at Avondale, lending a hand at home, and continuously tinkering with the family automobiles, he renovated older homes in his spare time on the weekends, often taking a child or two along with him. He also was frequently attending and driving his children to and from various afterschool activities and sporting events. Despite the constants of a busy family life, he still made time to attend mass every Sunday at St. Dominic Catholic church, often making a stop on the way home at McKenzie’s for cinnamon rolls and donuts.
Following those years of hard work, saving and planning, Dan and Rose retired in Destin, Florida where Dan helped to design and project manage the construction of their two homes and served as an active board member of the Dunes of Destin Homeowner’s Association. In addition to keeping a watchful eye on the continual development of the neighborhood, he enjoyed discussing politics and following trends in the stock market. He also worked on perfecting his seafood gumbo recipe. Especially during holidays and summertime, their beach home was frequented by children, grandchildren, other relatives and friends.
After 15 years of beach life in Destin, it was time to move back to Louisiana to be closer to family. In Old Mandeville, life slowed down, but Dan continued to keep himself busy with various home improvement projects. He was an avid reader of National Geographic, Forbes and the local newspaper. Even in his nineties, he was still cruising the neighborhood on his 3-wheel bicycle, including taking regular trips to the local barbershop for his haircut.
Dan never stopped living, taking life in his stride until the very end. He was a man full of drive and discipline, but also kind-hearted, generous, and a natural charmer. His commitment to his family was unwavering and he will be greatly missed.
Dan is survived by his five children Jennifer Richard, Diana (Brett) Babineaux, Daniel “David” (Alice) Richard III, Dr. Georgina (Riaan Meintjes) Richard, Emily (Brandon) Rutterford; and his grandchildren Savannah Cutliff, Charlotte and Walter Richard, Alan and Coralie Meintjes, Tristan and Adelaide Rutterford; and many nieces and nephews as well.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rose Vetter Richard; his parents Anita Bourgeois Richard and Daniel David Richard Sr; and his sister Inez Richard Tregre.
In lieu of a funeral, a special family trip will take place at a later date to celebrate his life and spread his ashes. Memorial contributions in memory of Dan may be made to your favorite charity.
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