At the age of 82, Richard, "Buddy", to his family and friends left behind to mourn his passing, Ilona, his wife of 57 years, a large loving family, his beloved children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, along with so very many friends, business colleagues and associates. A native Mobilian, he graduated from Vigor High School in 1960, followed by 2 years at Columbia Basin College. He joined the Pipeliners Local 798 as a Journeyman Welder and celebrated his 58th year of membership this year. His work allowed him to travel all over this country to most of the lower 48 states building oil and gas pipelines. In 1975, he was a Foreman on the Alaska Oil Pipeline and spent 2 cold years in Prudhoe Bay North Slope, Alaska. Upon returning to his home town of Mobile, he founded his own business Welding Specialists, he started small and worked his way to a successful construction company, Ballcon, Inc. Specializing in Wastewater Treatment Plants, Gas and Water Lines, "underground utilities". He loved his work and the people he worked with, a man of integrity and honesty, with a deep appreciation for others. His impact has left a lasting impression in the community. He valued his quiet time in the recliner with one of his many fur babies.
As we celebrate a life well lived, all will miss his quiet demeanor, ready smile, humor and quickness to praise and encourage. We have always looked up to him, now we must learn to look higher. "With the passing of a patriarch, it falls upon the next generation to lead the way into the future". May His Memory Be a Blessing.
A Celebration of Life gathering will held on Saturday, June 7, 2025 from 1pm until 3pm at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home.
Saturday, June 7, 2025
1:00 - 3:00 pm
Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home
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