Name: Hillcrest Memorial Park and Mortuary
Address: Bakersfield, CA

My heartfelt sympathy to Richard's wife, Sybil, and all the family.

It was very sad to learn of Richard's passing--it was so unexpected by us, the students of Ronna Moon's Tuesday afternoon piano class, of which Richard was part.  We were a piano "team" for many years.  I know I will miss his gentle manner, the enthusiasm he had for playing the piano lessons, and the railroad stories he would talk about now and then.

Richard truly enjoyed "gearing up" for our piano lessons.  When it came to his turn, he was meticulous about getting the musical background set just right.  Only then would he feel ready to proceed to play what he had learned in practicing the previous assignment.  Richard played using country-western background accompaniments whenever the opportunity presented itself.  One time, he told us he was a fan of the "old" country music style.

Richard LOVED piano playing and he LOVED the sound of his Clavinola grand piano.  I remember the first time he invited all the piano students (the Tuesday and Wednesday classes) to his home for a summer barbecue.  Richard and Sybil were wonderful hosts; there was so much food, all beautifully set up in their kitchen.  They made us feel comfortable.  We mingled from living room to kitchen and their outdoor patio.  The patio was always colorfully decorated, the yard neatly manicured.  For the annual piano class gatherings, Richard would have his piano brought out from the piano room.  Prior to our arrival, the piano would be set up in the living room, "center stage", on a slightly raised carpeted platform.  He enjoyed when we each took a turn (or two) to play our own favorites for the group.  Though, no pressure.  And he so enjoyed listening to our piano teacher close the afternoon with several of her beautifully accomplished pieces.

A very nice gentleman, indeed.  Richard will be dearly missed.

I first met, and worked with Richard, when we were building the Metrolink track extension between Palmdale, and Lancaster, CA.  I was the conductor on the work train that dumped the rock and placed the new rail on the line.  Richard was in charge of the work.  What a gentleman!  He would sometimes ride with us down to the rock quarry at Lang, CA, because, as he said, "I like to feel how the track rides".  Several times he would treat my crew to dinner, and we had a hard time returning the favor... he seldom let us.  I enjoyed sitting in his car, while we were waiting for an 'ok' to work, and both of us telling stories of our railroad experiences.  He was a kick to be around!  A good, genuine person.  I often think of Richard, and will continue to do so.  I will make it a point to be at the services.  Larry A. Fredeen, Southern Pacific Conductor,  Bakersfield, CA

Our prayers are with your family during this time.

Brother Richard was a kind and gentle person, he was a diehard railroader, but he could be firm when needed. He helped many of us get started on the railroad and was always available when we needed advice. He and I had a special relationship. He will be misses.

The measure of a man is the story of his life. That would make Uncle Richard...10 feet tall and priceless.

OBITUARY

Richard R. Mahon

July 24, 1930 – January 11, 2013

Funeraria Del Angel Hillcrest

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