Richard William Mason

Richard (Dick) Mason was born in West Terre Haute, IN. to Floyd and Wilma Mason. He graduated from Valley High School in 1953. Richard joined the US Navy and served aboard several submarines in the Pacific as a sonar technician. During his time in the navy he was cited, along with a few crew members, for heroism by saving their submarine during a dock fire in San Francisco. He also received a citation and monetary award for a PUFFS modification, which was used on submarines for many years. He was honorably discharged as a Chief Petty Officer in 1969. Shortly thereafter he joined DatagraphiX, Inc. (General Dynamics subsidiary) as an electronics instructor. He held many positions in his 37 years with DatagraphiX, Inc., which later became Anacomp, Inc. While working full-time, over the years, and through several transfers around the US, he attended night classes, eventually earning a double B.A., and several units towards an M.A. Richard retired in 2006 as Director of Quality Service. He then worked for Sears repair service for four years. Richard enjoyed playing golf, traveling, cycling, playing Bridge, exploring San Diego with his wife, and woodworking, selling or gifting many pieces that he designed and crafted. Richard is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Marilyn Mason, his brother, Robert Mason (Doris) of Anderson, IN., his daughters; Pam Skinner (Brett) Reno, NV., Penny Mason, El Segundo, CA., Ann Hyatt (Don) Arlington, WA. Three stepchildren; Randy Strandberg (JoAnn) Littleton, Co., Kathy Powers (Chuck) Littleton, CO., and Tony Strandberg (Patty) Charlotte, NC. Many grand and great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Wilma Mason, and his stepfather Earl James. A memorial will be planned later, when he will be laid to rest at Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver, CO. Donations to the Parkinson’s Foundation would be appreciated. Listen One day soon, when I am gone and you’re alone, listen then for me, hear my whispers in the wind, and the waves of the sea. When the moon is full and high watch for shadows on the wall, before the dawn I’ll come to you, as you dream you will recall the times before my soul took flight, when our hearts still beat as one. Sleep in peace for I am just a breath away when day is done. by, Marilyn L Kish Mason