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Richard A. Vieira
Escalon farmer
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Richard A. Vieira, 82, of Escalon, passed away on January 11, 2011 on the birthday of his son, Richard A. Vieira, Jr., who predeceased him 6 years ago.  

He was the son of the late Manual & Sophie Vieira.  Richard was born at the family home in Ripon and lived all his life in Escalon, not far from his first family’s home.  After graduating from high school and a stint with the National Guard, he drove trucks for Karlson Bros.  Then he drove 25 years with Franzia Bros. Winery in Ripon.  

After an illness of his father, he left Franzia to take on the responsibility of farming the Vieira Ranch.  He continued to work until his health no longer allowed him to enjoy what he treasured the most, which was farming.  It was a passion he breathed, dreamed and shared with his neighbors.  He graduated from Ripon High School, where he met and then married his sweetheart, Betty Schaapman.  They were married in 1949.  On October 23, 2010, they celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary.  

Even though his main interest was farming, he did enjoy traveling and sightseeing.  His most recent trip was to Alaska.

He leaves behind his wife, Betty Vieira and 3 daughters: Linda & husband Terry Lynn, Karen & the late Steve Javete, all of Escalon, Laura & husband Rick Merwin of Montana.  He also leaves behind 8 grandchildren, Andrea and Brian, Jason, Blake and Brice, Tony and Elizabeth, and Christina, and 9 great-grandchildren, Talon and Rylee, Cheyene and Dale, Hayden and Brayden, Nichole, Jesse and Marcos.  He leaves behind a brother, Raymond Vieira of Escalon, and a sister, Edna Freitas of Manteca.  He was predeceased by his son, Richard A. Vieira Jr., and son-in-law, Steve Javete, and brothers, Ernest and Wilbert Vieira.  To his family and friends, he was as honest as the day was hard and long.  He was genuine of heart and if you were his friend you were family.

A memorial Mass will be held today, Feb. 4, at noon at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church with burial following at St. John’s Cemetery.  Arrangements by Deegan Funeral Chapel in Escalon; please visit our website at www.deeganfuneralchapels.com.  In loving memory please send donations to the American Cancer Society, Community Hospice, or to a charity of your choice.
Manteca (Calif.) Bulletin
Friday, Feb. 4, 2011