Richard Henry Olmsted

October 31, 1930-December 22, 2017

Architect, sailor, skier, and “gentleman,” Richard Henry Olmsted died at his home in San Rafael, California, December 22, surrounded by his family singing his favorite blue grass and country songs to him. Richard was a partner in the San Francisco architectural firm Hooper, Olmsted, Emmons and Hrovat. He was primarily involved in below market rate housing in the Bay Area and his designs won numerous awards. He served on the San Rafael Design Review board for 12 years.

Richard loved sailing and was an enthusiastic member of the Inverness Yacht Club, serving in many capacities and as its Commodore in 1975, and racing his Flying Scot, Spindrift. He and his wife, Vera, also own a muchloved cabin in Inverness, West Marin.

A long time resident of San Rafael, Richard was born in Hollywood, California, to Franklin Osburn Olmsted and Geraldine LaFetra Olmsted. He had an older brother, Franklin H. Olmsted (Jean), who died in 2015, and a twin brother, Gerald W. Olmsted (Barney), who died in 2012.

Growing up in Auburn California, Richard spent his life skiing in the Sierra and exploring the beauty of the American River Canyon. Richard had a love and appreciation for California history. After finishing Placer High School in Auburn, California, Richard graduated from Stanford University in 1952 and earned a Masters Degree in Architecture in 1954. He and his wife Vera Maradudin (‘54) met at college and were married in 1955.

Richard is survived by his wife of 62 years, Vera; son Paul (Cara); and daughters Nina, and Katherine Shannon (Kevin); and six grandchildren-- Elizabeth, Andrew, Alexandra, Emma, Jennie, and Lara, and numerous close relatives.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held in April at the Inverness Yacht Club.