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Richard Stephen Lear
May 1933 December 2010
Lear R

Richard Lear was born to Duke and Delphine Lear in Pascagoula, Miss. The 11th of 12 children, Richard learned early about the value of hard work and the meaning of family which served him well through his life. Richard loved and served his country faithfully in the U.S. Army. After returning to Mississippi at the end of his service, Richard took a job as a carpenter and remained in that trade for 20 years.

In 1947, Richard left Mississippi to start a new life in California. After a short stay in the Bay Area, Richard eventually settled in Hilmar where he continued carpentry and farmed 40 acres of grapes. Throughout his life he was a great lover of the outdoors and many times he would spend his entire day roaming outside enjoying nature.

Richard is survived by his wife, Joanne Borrelli Lear; son, Duke Lear (Lesa) of Texas; daughters, Julie Sinchak (Don) of Texas and Stephanie Hayes of Turlock; son, Tim Jones (Jan) of Hilmar; daughter, Teri Mello (Doug) of Turlock; daughter, Tami Martinez (Carl) of Hilmar; 11 grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.

Richard will also be deeply missed by sisters, Virginia Flanagan of Colma and Dorothy Delmas and Yvonne Lear of Modesto. Richard loved his family and friends and that love was reciprocated by all that knew him.

A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 8 at Allen Mortuary. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, all remembrances are sent to Hospice of Emanuel, 1850 Colorado Ave., Turlock, CA 95382.

Please share your memories and condolences at www.allenmortuary.com.