Richard was born in Ellendale, North Dakota. He moved to Portland, Oregon at the age of 12, where he met his wife Judith. He graduated from Jefferson High School in 1954 and married Judith in 1957.
Richard and Judith moved to Gladstone, Oregon in 1961 and had 3 children.
Richard passed away at his home surrounded by his family and friends.
He is survived by his wife, Judith Ojala; children, Julie Suran, Kenneth Ojala and Ellen Hewes; four grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life will be held April 30, 2016 at Milwaukie Elks Lodge from 1 to 3 p.m.