Went home to Jesus April 29th, 2022. Loving family were at his bedside when he succumbed to ALS.
Born August 28, 1945 in Springfield, Massachusetts to Marjorie and Thomas Bamber.
Richard was a kind, loving man, beloved husband of Cathleen, father, grandfather and friend to all. He was a simple man who enjoyed spending time in nature, working with wood, camping and talking about big trucks and classic cars. He was devoted to his ministries at Sun City West Christian Church and loved singing in the choir. Richard loved music, especially Gaither Family gospel music. He would sing along in full voice as he worked in his workshop. He loved people and had a great sense of humor.
He grew up in Chicopee Falls Massachusetts surrounded by his grandparents. At age 11 years, his grandfather gave him his first hammer and saw. He began helping his father build homes, where his Dad shared his wisdom and taught him life values.
Richard attended Northampton Jr. College, earning a business degree.
He served 4 years in the US Navy as ship store manager on the USS Pymouth Rock.
He worked several years as a corporate accountant for Breck Shampoo in New Jersey. He later started his own firewood and snowplowing business.
Over the years he drove dump truck, worked in car sales and enjoyed driving school bus. For many years he made his home in the woods of Catamount mountain in Pittsfield, New Hampshire.
In 2007 he left the snow and cold to come west to sunny Arizona.
He began his ministries at Sun City West Christian Church as Facilities manager.
Richard and Cathleen Mraz met at church. In October 2016, they married, always feeling they were God's gift to each other.
Richard is survived by his devoted wife Cathleen, sons Thomas Bamber (Jennifer) of New Jersey, John Bamber of Texas, stepsons Michael (Kate)Mraz of California, Thomas (Kim) Mraz of Arizona, Matthew (Maryann) Mraz of Ohio, 7 grandchildren, Ava, Frank, Alayna, Mitchell, Monica, Corey and Joshua, 3 great-grandchildren.
His parents preceded him in death.
A celebration of life will take place Friday, May 20, 2022 at 12:30 pm at Camino Del Sol Funeral Chapel, 13738 W. Camino Del Sol, Sun City West, AZ 85375. Military Rendering and service to begin at 1:00pm.
Richard will be sadly missed, but his light will shine on.
"Weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning. " Psalm 30:5
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