Richard E. Walz's Obituary
Richard E. Walz, 82, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2025, in Escondido, California.
Born on March 18, 1943, Richard dedicated his life to service and justice. A graduate of the University of North Carolina, he began his career with a deep commitment to helping others. He served two years in Malaysia with the Peace Corps and later contributed to domestic efforts through the VISTA community program. His passion for equity led him to a distinguished 36-year career with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), where he continued to work tirelessly to protect the rights of countless individuals.
Richard was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is lovingly remembered by his wife, Jane Walz; his son, Jason Walz; his daughter, Stephanie Vining (Travis); his brother, David Walz (Toddy); and his grandsons, Tyler and Matthew Vining. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Vivienne Walz.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Richard found joy with his children as a Boy Scout Leader, soccer coach, Indian Princesses Program leader, and many other fun events. He was also an avid train buff and model railroader, spending many hours immersed in this lifelong passion constructing models and joining with members of the Neuse River Model Railroad Club.
His faith was a primary importance in his life. He worshipped at Escondido First Church of the Nazarene and previously at Hayes Barton United Methodist and Cokesbury United Methodist Churches in Raleigh, NC. Richard spread God’s love to many people through work and humanitarian programs like Building Together against institutional racism, Partners Against Trafficking Humans, outreach to Haliwa-Saponi Tribe events, providing services at Dorthea Dix Psychiatric Hospital, and caring for friends in need.
Richard’s legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to justice. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.
A memorial service will be held at Redwood Terrace in Escondido, CA on May 10, 2025 at 10am PST. The service will be streamed here: https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86007878964?pwd=kWYtbAgt2u3e0WKMLzsPBjyaLobizJ.1
Richard Walz Celebration of Life
May 10, 2025 10:00 AM Pacific Time
Redwood Terrace, Dittus Hall: 710 W 13th Ave, Escondido, CA 92025
Attend in person or join via Zoom
https://us05web.zoom.us/j/86007878964?pwd=kWYtbAgt2u3e0WKMLzsPBjyaLobizJ.1
One tap mobile: +12532050468,,86007878964#,,,,*9360987183# US
Meeting ID: 860 0787 8964
Passcode: RWcelebrat
In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to Stephen Ministry in memory of Dick. Please send to: Hayes Barton United Methodist Church (memo line: Stephen Ministry), 2209 Fairview Road, Raleigh, NC 27608, or hbumc.org/give and choose "Steph Min Programs."
In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to the Benevolent Fund in memory of Dick. Please send to: Escondido First Church of the Nazarene, Attn: Benevolent Fund, 1555 S Redwood St, Escondido, CA 92025
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