In Memory

Richard Lee Kirtland III - Class Of 1952 VIEW PROFILE

Richard Lee Kirtland III

Richard Kirtland

June 30, 1934 - May 10, 2023

Richard was born in Los Angeles to Richard and Katherine Hackney Kirtland. He grew up in San Marino and attended South Pasadena High School, Class of 1952. Richard went on to attend the University of Southern California where he was a member and president of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. Upon graduation from USC with a degree in Business Administration, Richard joined the US Navy. In 1957, he graduated from the US Naval Officer Candidate School in Maryland. Richard served as an officer and navigator aboard the USS Bayfield for two years.

Richard called Pasadena home for more than 50 years. In addition to running a successful real estate investment business, he was a passionate gardener, hosting events for family and friends in his immaculate home and garden. Richard was a devout member of the First Church of Christ, Scientist Pasadena. He faithfully served the church for decades as a three-time executive board member and as the church treasurer for more than ten years. He cared for the church grounds and buildings, served as an usher at all special events, and was known for his cheerful and elegant demeanor among members.

A talented musician, Richard entertained family and friends with beautiful music on the pipe organ. He served as the organist at the First Church of Christ, Scientist San Marino for nearly 15 years. With his generous gifts, their unique organ, originally constructed in 1901, was completely restored. Richard blessed the congregation with music from that organ weekly until his passing. Richard was a member of the American Guild of Organists (LA Chapter) where he served as Dean and President for two years, was on the finance committee, and on the committee for their national conference.

Richard's calm and helpful presence will be missed by many. He was a proud uncle and father figure to his nephew, Todd, and was elated when Todd also chose to attend his alma mater, USC. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Katherine, and his brother, Robert Kirtland '55. He is survived by his sister-in-law Mary Jane Burkman Kirtland '55, nephew Todd, niece Jennifer, and great nieces, Gwyneth, Jillian, and Audrey.

Jennifer Kirtland, niece



 
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11/10/23 12:47 PM #1    

Marlowe E Delphey (Viney) (1952)

10 November 2023

Dear Richard,

Just read of your passing and was deeply saddened, especially as you had called me earlier this year to thank me for my Christmas letter and Christmas photo card. As the years have passed you've always made it a point to make phone contact with me. I shall miss your annual call with time for me to catch up on how you've been doing.

This past summer you mentioned that you had lost your brother not too long ago. I asked if you were still playing the ogran in your church, to which yiu replied that you were. I know your congreation will miss you and the music you played for them.

Rest well, dear friend. Look forward to seening your again in the next chapter of life,

Marlowe Delphey Viney

 

 


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