Richard Albert Breitengross Iv

Rick Albert Breitengross, IV of Ridgecrest, CA, went home to be with Jesus, his Lord and Savior, on February 19, 2020, at home surrounded by his family.  Rick was born on September 8, 1953, in Davenport, IA, to Richard A. Breitengross, III, and Beverly Breitengross (Carleton).  He is survived by his beautiful bride, Linda B. Breitengross, to whom he was married for 34 years; his children, Allen (Annie), Sandra (Adam), Amy (Mack), and Lisa.  He also left behind ten grandchildren, Audrey, Aaron, Alina, Tiffany, Elise, Rockford, Nicolina, Lillias, Kervin, and Jerald.  Rick is survived by his siblings and numerous other family and friends, including Nancy Breitengross Withers (Dow), Mary Breitengross Johnson (Bill), Lori Breitengross Cripps, David Carleton (Julie), and Debbie Bass.  He is preceded in death by his father, Richard A. Breitengross, III; his step-mother, Irene Breitengross; his mother, Beverly Carleton; his step-father, Theodore Carleton; his step-sister, Tammy Taylor; and his niece, Hillary Faye Withers.  Rick was a graduate of Burroughs High School (Class of 1971), attended Cerro Coso Community College, and studied chemistry at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo.  He worked for the U.S. Department of Defense China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station as a chemist for nearly three decades.  In his youth, he enjoyed exploring the Mojave desert on his motorcycle, camping at Lake Lopez, breathing the salty air of Pismo Beach, and causing trouble.  In his later years, he enjoyed spending time with his family, telling stories of the good ol' days, arguing about politics, and of course, causing trouble.  He loved God, his family, and his country.  Rick was greatly loved and will be deeply missed.  All are welcome to attend a memorial service celebrating Rick's extraordinary life on Saturday, March 14, 2020, at 10 AM at Calvary Chapel Ridgecrest, 210 E. Springer Avenue, Ridgecrest, CA 93555.  In lieu of flowers, please vote in the next election, fly the American flag, teach a kid to ride a dirt bike, or call an old friend.