It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of retired State Senator and Stanislaus County Supervisor, Dick Monteith, at the age of 92. A cherished husband, father, grandfather, and devoted public servant, Dick was surrounded by love and close family at the time of his passing.
Born in Los Banos, California, in 1932 to Kenneth and Elizabeth Monteith, Dick was a graduate of Turlock High School, Menlo College, and Stanford University. He earned a B.A. in Sociology and excelled in athletics. Dick embarked on a lifelong career in agribusiness before venturing into public service.
In the late 1980’s Dick met the love of his life, Jeanine Foster, and the two married in 1988. He was elected to the California State Senate in 1994, serving two terms before retiring due to term limits. He continued his commitment to public service as a Stanislaus County Supervisor where he served three terms from 2006 before fully retiring in 2018.
Dick’s unwavering dedication to service and love for Stanislaus County and the surrounding region was evident in the countless community connections he cherished throughout his 92 years. He was a member of Trinity United Presbyterian Church, the Turlock Masonic Lodge #395, and served on the boards of Modesto Gospel Mission, Youth for Christ, Success Capital - SBA 504 Lender, and the Stanislaus County Prayer Breakfast.
Above all, Dick loved his Lord and Savior. He enjoyed following college sports, particularly Stanford, and watching his grandchildren participate in their many events and activities. Known for his warmth and infectious laugh, he was deeply committed to collaborating with others and addressing challenges in Central California, embodying integrity, honesty, and generosity throughout his life.
Dick is survived by his wife, Jeanine Monteith; sons Rick Monteith (Chaloemsri) of Kent, WA, and Scott Monteith of Lodi, CA; stepdaughters Holly Evans (Rick) of Turlock, CA, Stacy Foster (Mary) of Willits, CA, and Heidy Kellison (Peter) of Davis, CA; and grandchildren Katie Monteith, Wanicha Mueangcharoen and Wichaya Mueangcharoen (Hyun) of Kent, WA, Tom Evans (Kylie) of Turlock, CA, Kenny Evans (Sandy) of Turlock, CA, and Chase Kellison of Davis, CA.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 2:00 P.M. at Trinity United Presbyterian Church, 1600 Carver Road, Modesto. Donations in memory of Dick Monteith may be sent to Trinity United Presbyterian Church, Modesto Gospel Mission, Youth for Christ, Modesto Pregnancy Center, or the charity of your choice.
