Richard Dias, 86, of Turlock, California, passed peacefully, on the land he loved. He was born on July 4, 1939, in Modesto, the youngest of eight children. Raised on his family’s ranch in Turlock, Dick learned early the value of hard work, helping milk the family cows before school each day.

He attended Monte Vista Elementary and graduated from Turlock High School in 1958, where he was a proud member of the 1957 State Championship football team. After graduation, Dick enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served aboard the USS Kearsarge, taking part in the recovery of astronaut Wally Schirra’s Mercury space capsule — a memory he cherished throughout his life.

On March 3, 1962, he married the love of his life, Rita Woodward, and together they built a beautiful life filled with family, travel, and community. They welcomed two children, Candy and Chris, and later took over Woody’s Poultry Supply, Inc.. Dick expanded the company’s reach through his expertise in sheet metal work, designing and building poultry houses across California and internationally, including projects in Hawaii, Japan, Tahiti, and Dubai.

A lifelong farmer, Dick took great pride in his crops and the friendships he formed through work and community service. He was a member of the Denair Volunteer Fire Department, served as President and Zone Chairman of the Denair Lions Club, and was active in the American Legion Post 88.

Known for his generosity, sense of humor, and love of a good get-together, Dick was the first to lend a hand and the last to leave a party. He especially loved time spent with family, and cheering on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in all they did.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Rita Dias; children Candy (Dias) Rubins and Chris (Tia) Dias; brother Dan(Barbara) Dias; grandchildren Riley (Kevin) Kramer and Mila Dias, Lyle Rubins; great-grandchildren Kennedy and Parker Kramer; and many dear friends who became family.

A viewing will be held Thursday, October 23, from 5–7 p.m., followed by a service on Friday, October 24, at 10 a.m., both at Turlock Memorial Park, 425 N. Soderquist Rd., Turlock, CA.

Dick will be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, loyal heart, and the joy he brought to every room. His legacy of love, laughter, and community will live on through all who were blessed to know him.

In lieu of flowers, Rita kindly requests that a donation in Dick’s honor be made to the American Legion Post 88.