Richard M. Traynor

Zoom for Saturday Funeral Services. 

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Richard Michael Traynor, 77, peacefully returned to his Heavenly Father on August 13, 2026, in Bakersfield, California. Richard was born on June 23, 1949, in Whittier, California, to Clyde and Marjorie Traynor. Richard grew up in a loving home that valued faith, education, hard work, laughter, and service. At the age of two, the Traynor family moved to Bakersfield, California, where he lived for the rest of his life.

Growing up, Richard was a typical boy who enjoyed family trips, hiking, fishing, shooting, sports, and the occasional mischief with his lifelong friends, Kenny and Allen Anderson. Richard graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1967.

Richard married Cheryl Tiner, with whom he shared sons Michael Douglas and Gregory Richard. On July 13, 1974, Richard married Deborah Ann Stoddard in the Los Angeles Temple, where they were sealed for time and all eternity. Together, they built a family grounded in gospel principles and love. Richard’s family grew with the additions of Lori Leann, Matthew Todd, and Amie Elizabeth.

Throughout his life, Richard served in various capacities within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Boy Scout Leader, Elders Quorum President, Stake Young Men’s President, High Councilman, Bishop, and Patriarch. His service was marked by his love for his Savior, Jesus Christ, His Atonement, and the Plan of Salvation.

Professionally, Richard was a proud member of IBEW Local 428. In June of this year, he received his 55-year pin. In his early years, he was a journeyman electrician. Later, he became the Vice President and General Manager of Contra Costa Electric’s Bakersfield division. Upon retiring from Contra Costa, he worked for Lundgren Management and Fluor.

Besides his family, Richard’s greatest source of happiness was serving the Fruitvale School District. He began his service as the first president of the Quailwood Parent Club. Then, in 1981, he was elected to the Fruitvale School District Board of Trustees. Richard cherished his 45 years on the board. His Fruitvale family meant the world to him. He especially enjoyed and looked forward to the beginning of each school year. He welcomed, thanked, and encouraged teachers during their back-to-school meeting. He also visited every classroom on every campus to greet students and express his support for their teachers.

Richard is survived by his wife and eternal companion, Debbie, whom he loved unconditionally. He is also survived by his children, Mike (Tamme), Greg (Maria), Lori, Matt (Amy Jo), and Amie. He sacrificed his time and talents to ensure that his family always had a happy place to call home. Richard is also survived by 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild, all of whom loved their Papa. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Marjorie; siblings, Susann, Patricia, and Steve; and son-in-law, Nathan Hiatt.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 4, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Kern River Family Mortuary, located at 1900 N. Chester Ave. in Bakersfield, CA.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 5, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 316 A St. in Bakersfield, CA. Dedication of the grave and interment will follow at Hillcrest Mortuary.

Richard was a strong supporter of career and technical education. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Fruitvale School District, c/o Richard Traynor CTE.