Raymond J. Runyan Sr.

RAYMOND JOE RUNYAN

January 27, 1920 - December 22, 2018

     Raymond Joe Runyan, 98, passed away peacefully in his home, surrounded by family in San Marcos, CA, on December 22, 2018.  He was a happy child born on January 27, 1920 in Denver, Colorado, to George Oliver Runyan and Lucy Maddox. He was raised in Denver, moving from home to home as his parents enjoyed building small homes, selling them, and building again. He spoke often about his childhood, how his parents taught him to be honest, to work hard and to meet his obligations. He loved his parents and siblings very much, and fondly remembered interactions with them.

     Raymond attended school with his brothers and sister at Mountair School in Denver. His mother Lucy loved the open air and taught her children to be adventurers. Raymond became very active in the Boy Scouts, with his father and brother as his scout leaders. He in turn lead and mentored other members of his family as they became scouts. When Raymond was 8 years old he was baptised into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and he raised his family to be strong in the Gospel.

     Raymond was a true entrepreneur. As a child during the great depression, he found ways to work odd jobs, from hoeing weeds in neighbor’s yards for 10 cents an hour, to Western Union bike deliveries, to working at the family’s horseradish factory.  As a young adult he attended barber school and was drafted into the Navy in 1940, where he served as a barber to the officers.

     He married his love, Lorene Franks, on June 20, 1937.  They enjoyed 79 years together on this earth before she peacefully passed away on July 17, 2016.  They were a constant example of commitment, love, and devotion to family. Together they raised two sons and two daughters.

     Raymond made many successful investments in real estate over his lifetime, but he was truly a farmer at heart, owning and successfully operating several small farms. Even in his retirement he continued to grow as much as he could in his beautiful yard, and shared his bounty with family, neighbors, and friends. During his retirement he also enjoyed golfing often, and he volunteered for years at the LDS San Diego Temple.

     Raymond is preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, his daughter Judi, and his siblings Carl, Albert, Florence, and John. He is survived by his children, Raymond (Jen) Runyan Jr., Donald (Linda) Runyan, and Joan Schnegelberger;  21 grandchildren, 78 great grandchildren, and 33 great-great grandchildren. He is also survived by his dear brother, George.

     We will miss so many things about him, including his strength, patience, kindness, integrity, and wisdom.  One small piece of wisdom that will stay with us always is “It’s amazing how many things will work out if you are kind and honest.”  He also taught us to work a little harder and little longer.

     Services will be held on Saturday, January 5, 2018 at 12 p.m. in the LDS Church, located at 2255 Felicita Road, Escondido, CA. 92029, with a visitation for family from 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

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