Richard Albert “Dick” Doerr

Dick Doerr, resident of Pebble Beach, passed away at the age of 78 on August 16th. He is survived by his partner and wife of 48 years, Kit Doerr, his three children, Gretchen Caldwell, Hanna Doerr, and Rick Doerr, and their spouses Harrison Caldwell, Brett Bryant, and Molly Fee. “Papa” will be greatly missed by his three adoring grandsons, Trey Caldwell, Roan Doerr, and Westley Bryant. Dick also leaves behind his two sisters, Jerolyn Kester and Sharon Summers.

Dick was born in San Francisco and raised in Sacramento. He was the consummate athlete and a first generation college graduate. He attended American River College and received a B.S. from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, where he played on the football team. He held onto his Cal Poly pride throughout his life, serving on the Cal Poly Foundation Board from 2010-2018, while the football team’s practice field now bears his name: Doerr Family Field.

After college Dick went on to a successful career as a technology salesperson and executive. He began his career at Xerox, and ultimately became the President and CEO of Serena Software, which he took public in 1999. After retiring in 2000, Dick remained committed to the entrepreneurial community and became an early stage investor with the Sierra Angels (Incline Village, NV).

Outside of the board room, Dick was known for his quick wit, inquisitiveness, and passion for learning. He was never shy with a laugh and enjoyed affectionately teasing those he loved the most. You would rarely find him far from his golf clubs as he was always ready to play, whether a round at Pebble Beach or practice swings in the living room or at the airport. His family will miss his enthusiastic encouragement, sage advice, and the “atta-boys” and “atta-girls” that were hard won after a job well done.

A memorial service will be held at the Carmel Mission Basilica (3080 Rio Road, Carmel) at 10am on Thursday, August 26. In lieu of flowers please donate to First Tee of Monterey County or the Alzheimer’s Association.