Resident of Oakland

The world lost a kind and loving man on Thursday, April 10th. Born in San Francisco, Richard grew up in Merced, Mendocino, San Jose, and Berkeley. He attended UC Berkeley, where he became part of Plymouth House, a young adult fellowship group. It was there that he met the love of his life, Catherine “Tinka” Carrier. Rich and Tinka went on to build a beautiful life together in Oakland, raising four children and later welcoming six grandchildren. They were married for nearly 64 years before Tinka’s passing—just 15 days shy of their anniversary. Their home was always filled with music, laughter, friendship, and the deep, enduring love of family.

At Plymouth House, Richard also formed lifelong friendships with Andy Laird, Sam Barbo, Jon Applequist, Ollie Thomas, and Rod MacKenzie—men who came to be known as the “Mountain Men.” Every summer, they set out on week-long hikes to remote mountain lakes, sharing adventures, stories, and deep camaraderie. His younger brother Martin joined the group as soon as he was old enough. These trips became a cherished tradition and source of some of Richard’s fondest memories.

Richard began his professional life selling industrial camera equipment for Camera Shops Incorporated in Berkeley. In 1973, he launched his own venture, Image Systems—later incorporated as Image Sales. He was joined by his brother Martin in 1978 and his son Paul in 1983. Though no longer family-owned, the business continues today and proudly employs his eldest grandson, Dyami.

A talented violinist, Richard played for many years with the Prometheus Symphony but was best known for his decades-long role in the Exeter String Quartet. The group performed at countless weddings and community events, offering a repertoire that, as Richard liked to say, ranged “from Bach to The Beatles.” He also found joy in playing chamber music and built a wide circle of musician friends through various workshops and gatherings.

Richard loved to garden. Every year he took pride in filling his backyard full of tomatoes, green beans, artichokes, and fruit trees. He shared the abundance from his backyard with neighbors, friends, and family. Rich regularly donated veggies and fruits to his church’s food bank, providing fresh and healthy food to those in need.

Richard was predeceased by his beloved wife Tinka and his eldest son, David. He is survived by his brother, Martin; his children, Paul, Catherine, and Neil; and his six grandchildren: Dyami Larsen, Samuel Larsen, Acadia Larsen, Mira Spurgeon, Brent Spurgeon, and Cassidy Recker. He is also survived by many dear friends, including Pam Sharp, Pat Hoggatt and Kay Miller Browne.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at Montclair Presbyterian Church in Oakland. A Zoom link will be available for those unable to attend in person Contact MPC at office@mpcfamily.org for more information.