Richard Thomas Tozer was born September 19, 1926 in North Hollywood.
He served in the Navy (submarines) in World War II.
In 1951 he joined the Glendale Police Department. He retired as Captain Tozer in 1980. He and Barbara, his wife of 39 years, moved to Mammoth Lakes where they owned a real estate and reservation business before coming to Santa Barbara in 1981.
He was called to heaven on May 22, having suffered with leukemia for 15 months. He is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara, and their blended family of six children, 12 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Sons: Rick (Elaine), Bill and Michael. Daughters: Joy (John), Susann (Randy), Lynn (Rick). Grandchildren: Matthew (Michelle), Janelle (Scott), Carly (Scott), Valerie, Kayla (Michael), Sh ea, Ran dy, Tes s , Bryn n , Sierra, William a n d Tren n a. Great-grandchildren: Joshua, Evan, Audrey, Shondra, Kimberly, Hannah, Graham, and George Anna.
Dick and his wife loved cruising the world (38 cruises). He was called the “Fred Astaire” of the high seas. Ballroom dancing was their hobby, as well as skiing and fishing.
Celebration memorial service will be held on May 29, at 11 A.M. at Santa Barbara Community Church. All are invited to a luncheon after the service. Family asks that in lieu of flowers that donations be made to Hospice and Visiting Nurses at Serenity House.
Arrangements by Welch-Ryce-Haider Funeral Chapels. To leave online condolences and memories, visit www.wrhsb.com.
