Richard Alvin Bridenstine

88 year-old Richard Bridenstine passed away on July 20, 2024 at his home in Happy Camp. Richard was born in Inglewood, California. At the young age of 11, his family relocated to Happy Camp, where his mom, Evelyn, was raised. Richard spent his childhood in Happy Camp, and graduated from Happy Camp High School in 1954. Richard joined the United States Army in 1960, and while stationed in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, he met and married Deloris, gaining three young daughters: Kaye, Sheila, and Theresa. During their time in Missouri, a son, Rickie, was born. In 1963, after being honorably discharged, Richard brought his family to live in Happy Camp. The following year, they welcomed another son, Richie, into the family. For the next 29 years, Richard and Deloris lived and raised their family in Happy Camp, until Deloris' passing in 1989. Later that same year, Richard decided to leave Happy Camp, returning in 1998 after retiring. That same year, his sisters introduced him to Carol. In 1999, Richard and Carol were married, and he gained two daughters, Janel and Kristine, and a son, Eric. They lived their life together in Happy Camp and continued to renew their vows every 5 years. This year was their 25th anniversary, and with Richard too ill to travel, they just jumped the broom at home. In his earlier days, Richard enjoyed gold panning, mushrooming, fishing, and hunting. As he slowed down, Richard became quite the gardener, loved going to the ocean for some clam chowder, and enjoyed having folks stop by to visit with he and Carol. Richard was devoted to his faith, attending Happy Camp Bible Church and the weekly guy's breakfast regularly until his illness made it difficult. However, his loved for his faith never stopped him from watching sermons on the TV. Richard was a hardworking, kind man. He was a good husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him. Richard was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Deloris; his children, Rick and Teresa; grandson, Travis; and siblings Bud, Darlene, Gary, and Brenda. He is survived by his wife, Carol; his children, Kaye Stephens, Sheila Parker, Richie Bridenstine, Janel Miller, Kristine Daniels, and Eric Hamilton; by 17 grandchildren; and siblings, Lloyd, Moochie, Patty, Dolores "Doozie," and Debbie. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the Old Karuk Gymnasium in Happy Camp, with a potluck gathering to follow.

Richard Alvin Bridenstine

February 29, 1936 - July 20, 2024