Paul H Richards

Paul H. Richards, 81, of Pendleton died Saturday, June 18th, at his home after a brief illness.

He was born to Ralph J. Richards and Laura Hobbs on December 23, 1940, in Fort Duchesne, Utah in their family home on an Indian reservation.  The family later moved to Sedro Woolley and then Seattle, Washington before moving to Junction City, Oregon.  Paul graduated from Junction City high school where he enjoyed playing baseball and football.  As a pitcher, he threw two no-hitters on the varsity baseball team.  After graduation, he went on to barber college in Portland, Oregon.  He married the love of his life, Elaine Nauss in 1960 in Eugene.  After graduating from Molar Barber College, he was offered a job at Patton’s Barber Shop in Pendleton.  Paul later purchased the shop and changed the name to “Heads Up”.

Paul worked for 55 years, giving an estimated 170,000 haircuts.  He loved going to work and especially valued the long-term relationships established with his clients.  He was appointed to the Oregon Board of Barbering, where he served for eight years.  He later served on the Oregon Cosmetology Board.

Paul was a devoted husband and father.  He attended virtually every single one of his children’s games and/or events over the years.  Many fond memories were made while bird hunting with his sons in the fields around Pendleton.  He also enjoyed playing golf with his many friends.

He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  He served in many church callings over the years and especially valued his time working with the youth and as a High Priest group leader.  Later, he and Elaine volunteered in the Columbia River Temple for 4 years.

Paul is survived by his wife, Elaine and four children:  Tammy, Paul Jr., Steven (Kim) all of Pendleton and David (Beth) of Baker City, Oregon.  He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Sandra Lester.

His funeral service was held on Thursday, June 23, 2022, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Pendleton.

His family is forever grateful to the many dear friends and family for their expressions of love and support.