Richard Walton Calvert Sr.'s Obituary
Richard Walton Calvert, Sr., beloved father, grandfather, husband, brother, and friend passed away peacefully on August 21, 2025 at the age of 90.
Born on June 26, 1935 in Washington, D.C., Richard was the son of Lottie and George Walton Calvert. He grew up in Arlington, Virginia, alongside his sisters Clare and Marjorie. Richard attended James Madison Elementary, Avondale Country School, Swanson Junior High; where he me this future wife, Helyn Marie King. He later graduated from Washington-Lee High School and went on to study engineering at the College of William & Mary and the University of Virginia. Richard began his career at his father's air conditioning company, confidently aspiring to match the salaries of the top engineers of the day-an ambition he soon achieved. His engineering career later took him across the country to Seattle, where he led major projects, including designing the mechanical systems for the Seattle Airport Marriott Hotel. Known for his ingenuity, Richard also lent his expertise to community projects, including improvements at the Renton Bible Church, where his upgrades to the HVAC system greatly enhanced the comfort of the congregation. Richard's personal life was as rich as his professional one. With his first wife, Helyn King, he raised three children: Lambert, Richard Jr. and Catherine. He later married Hilda Richardson, embracing her children: Stephen, Carolyn and Cynthia as his own. Richard and Hilda shared a deep love for music, dance and the Hawaiian Islands, often filling their home with jam sessions, hula gatherings and joyful celebrations. After Hilda's passing in 2015, Richard rekindled a friendship with his high school classmate, Helen Shoemaker, and together they played golf, and built a warm and loving life in Temple Terrace, Florida. Richard is survived by his partner in Life's final chapter, Helen Shoemaker; his children Lambert (Jamie) & child Dakota, as well as Lambert's children from his first marriage, Beau, Ricky and Brittany; Richard Jr. (Wende) and their children Connor, Kate, Karsen and stepson Austin; Daughter Catherine; sister Marjorie (Louie) and son Phillip; stepchildren Carolyn (Stephen) and daughter Suzanne and son Jeremy; Cynthia (Gerard); as well as many extended family members and dear friends. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Clare, his beloved wife Hilda and her son, Stephen.
In lieu of Flower, please send donations to the American Heart Association.
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