Richard Larry Ketcham's Obituary
Richard L. Ketcham “Sam”, age 89, was born on October 12th, 1934. Although he was born in Cottage Grove, OR, he grew up in San Diego, CA. Richard, was the only child of Tony G. Ketcham and Arna Vivian Longfellow Ketcham. As a young man, Richard enjoyed body surfing and diving for abalone with his friends off the beaches of Pacific Beach and La Jolla . He attended Point Loma High School and La Jolla High School where he graduated. After graduating, he enlisted in the Air Force as an Airman First Class. His Air Force service consisted mainly of helping bring babies into the world in Labor & Delivery. After serving for 4 years, he joined the American Legion where he enjoyed adult beverages with his fellow veterans. He then pursued a career and was educated, licensed, and certified as a professional barber where, while in barber college, he got the nickname that henceforth, everyone knew him by, “Sam.” Sam began his career as a barber in Solana Beach. He retired in 2009 after working for over 50 years. Sam enjoyed his retirement by going on cruises, driving on road trips, and visiting his grown children and grandchildren across the country, from Hawaii to Washington DC. Sam’s favorite singer was Elvis, singing the song Amazing Grace. Sam loved his family very much. He has 7 children: Phyllis B. Friend, Jodie L. Ketcham, Tony G. Ketcham, James S. Ketcham, Richard A Ketcham, Samantha J. Ashe, and Kelly D. Ketcham. He also has 12 grand children and 7 great grandchildren. He made many friends throughout his long life.
He was a proud, hardworking man who was also stubborn, helpful, funny, and caring. When Sam smiled he had a twinkle in his eyes. He is loved and greatly missed.
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