John Richard Yoder

John Richard Yoder of Carlsbad, CA, died peacefully on April 19, 2021, at the age of 99. He was born January 20, 1922, in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was the first of four sons of Leonard Arner Yoder and Edythe Marie Bollinger Yoder.

A Renaissance man, Richard had a great love of reading and a personal library of over 18,000 books. He was a Harvard graduate with a bachelor’s degree in physics. He worked for a number of companies in scientific and technical research and development. His last and most satisfying work was with Science Applications International in La Jolla, CA.

During World War II Richard was an Army Air Corps B-17 pilot. He retained a lifelong interest in aviation. He greatly enjoyed visiting a vintage B-17 bomber at McClellan-Palomar Airport in Carlsbad in 2019.

Richard’s first marriage of 23 years was to Cynthia Hope, with whom he raised 3 daughters: Alexandra Yoder Hope (Hunter MacWilliams), Elizabeth Jane Yoder, and Martha Lynn Yoder (Bill Clements).

Richard’s second marriage of 40 years was to Inez Hileman Yoder, who predeceased him in 2008. Richard was stepfather to Inez’ son, Rhodes Hileman, and step-uncle to Inez’ niece, Erika Chamberlin.

Richard is also survived by brother, Leonard Bollinger Yoder (Ellie), nine nieces and nephews, and many good friends. Richard was predeceased by brothers William Robert Yoder (Dorothy) and Carl Edwin Yoder (Elfriede).

Richard’s friend, Swedina Hurt, isolated with him from the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic until his death. Swedina provided care and companionship that made it possible for him to remain in the home he loved. His friends, Carolyn Jopes and Marcia Jones, provided support over many years following Inez’ death.

Richard and Inez Yoder were very active in advocacy for the environment and in progressive politics. They were proud of the work they did to advocate for the creation of Batiquitos Lagoon nature preserve and Box Canyon nature preserve, both in Carlsbad.

A memorial service will be held at an undetermined future date. Memorial contributions in Richard’s honor may be made to California Native Plant Society https://www.cnps.org/give/tribute.