Richard Hardy

Richard ""Dick"" Hardy was born January 27, 1939 and passed away on Saturday May 29, 2021. He leaves behind his wife, Carol Hardy of 58 years.

Dick was born to Don and Betty Hardy in Watsonville, California where he resided for the rest of his life. At Watsonville High School, Dick was a three-sport varsity athlete and Student Body President, graduating in 1957. Dick graduated from San Francisco State University and served two years in the Army. After teaching at Aromas Elementary School for nine years, Dick returned to Watsonville High School in 1973 as a teacher and coach until 1999, when he retired from the school district after 35 years of service.

In retirement, Dick worked with his wife Carol crafting antique furniture in miniature as a home business. Their association with the International Guild of Miniature Artisans as woodworkers and instructors has filled the last 34 years with creativity, joy, and meaningful friendships.

In addition to Carol, Dick is survived by three children, Laura (Bob) Kostreba, Rick (Carrie) Hardy, Lisa (Mark) Kirchgestner, six grandchildren, three great grandchildren, brother, Don (Arline) Hardy, cousins, nieces, nephews and mother-in-law Ileene Erickson. Family gatherings were always important to Dick and he was blessed to have five generations of loved ones around him in his final days. He was beloved and will be missed greatly.

On June 19, 2021 at 11 AM, a Memorial Service for Dick will be held at First Baptist Church Watsonville, where he attended since childhood.

Published in The Pajaronian · June 18, 2021