Richard Paul Wilson went to be with Jesus on August 23, 2024 after battling cancer. Richard was born in Bakersfield, California on February 8, 1938 to parents Paul and Mary Wilson. Richard was the second of three children.

Richard enlisted in the US Navy and served as a Seaman in 1955. He was honorably discharged from service in 1957.

He attended Bakersfield High School (always a Driller) and then San Jose State University where he was a proud member of his fraternity. He loved his fraternity brothers and continued to support and participate in alumni activities most of his life.

Richard worked hard all his life and was a successful businessman. In his early years he worked as a detective, a salesman for a steel company, and finally found his niche in insurance sales. He owned and operated an independent insurance agency, Wilson Paves & Associates for over 30 years. He built his business on trust, a commitment to excellence, and a tireless work ethic.

Richard’s great passion was golf. He loved to golf and in his younger years, he competed in and won many trophies in pro/am golf tournaments, at one time even considering becoming a professional golfer. He played regularly up until just a few months prior to his death.

He was a member of the Bakersfield T-Bird club and enjoyed showing off his beautiful 1956 T-bird and a diehard Rams fan to the end.

In his golden years, he really drew close to God and was excited to share his faith with others. He wanted his life to be an example to his friends and family.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Carolyn Honeycutt and Sandy Wilson, and his son Mark Wilson. He is survived by his wife Barbara Wilson, his daughter Lisa Hockersmith, his son Mike Wilson (Charissa), his six beloved grandchildren, and his great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at Riverlakes Church, 4301 Calloway Drive, Bakersfield on Thursday, September 11, 2024 at 11:00 am. Friends and family are welcome to attend. He will be laid to rest with military honors at the National Cemetery in Bakersfield.  

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