July 12, 1930 – September 4, 2017
Our Father, Richard Harlan “Dick” Brem passed away peacefully in Turlock, after a prolonged illness.
Dad was born in Gilroy to Richard and Mae Brem on July 12, 1930. Legend has it that he was one of the first babies born at Wheeler Hospital and the first of three generations of Brems born there.
According to Dad, he had a great childhood. He spent most of his time hunting, fishing and trying to bend as many rules as possible. He graduated from Gilroy High School and participated in football and track. He was also in student government and was class vice president by virtue of a stuffed ballot box.
Dad enlisted in the Air Force and was deployed to the Korean conflict. He was stationed in Tokyo and Korea before being shipped home with cancer, which he was able to beat. After recuperating, he was stationed at Hamilton Field and had the great pleasure of taking the base commander on hunting trips to the Dowdy Ranch.
After a brief courtship, Dad married Shirley Phillips, in Las Vegas on November 13, 1953. A telegram sent to the family said “Married 8:30 inside alter very happy = Shirley and Dick.” That started a journey of almost 64 years, three children and too many moves to count.
Dad had several careers that ranged from farmer, to cannery field man, to western store owner, to carpet layer, to specially gourmet food store owner. Finally, Dad and Mom settled into making and selling western-themed crafts. They enjoyed going to shows throughout California, not so much for the money, but to establish and maintain friendships.
Dad is survived by his wife, Shirley, who cared for him until the end. He is also survived by his children, Mike (Tina), Nancy (Nick) and Jim (Pam). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Jay (Laura), Jeff (Becky), Ryan, Kyle and Tyson. He also had five great grandchildren, Cali, Jack, Layne, Everett and Clark. Dad is also survived by his brother Glenn (Muriel) and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
In keeping with Dad’s wishes, there will be no services.
If you would like to celebrate his life, get your family together, tell some stories and jokes, and have some cocktails.
