Richard T. Freeborn

Richard Troy Freeborn was born on April 4, 1949 in Bakersfield, CA. to parents Paula and Leland
Freeborn. He passed away on June 24, 2022. Richard grew up in Bakersfield and graduated from
Bakersfield High School in 1968. More than that he was educated by working with his father Leland Sr.
on the family farms and ranches growing crops and raising cattle. He was a proud Viet Nam veteran and
was honorably discharged from the Army in 1971. He returned to farm the Blue Moon Ranch in the
Buttonwillow area and continue to help his father with other farming and business interests.
Richard married his high school sweetheart Karen Mebane in 1975 and the marriaqe produced one son
Zak Freeborn. Even though their marriage ended in 1980 they continued to be close friends until his
death. In 1984 he married Sue Walker and became father to her two sons Phillip and Garren Mouser
She remained his loving wife for 27 years until her death in 2011
He retired from the farming business in 2002 but continued to work at the California Living Museum
until 2010. When Richard wasn't busy with work he enjoyed his adventures in his motorhome, his
houseboat on the San Joaquin Delta and also snowmobiling. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with
family and friends. Always very resourceful and fun, he was also a very humble and caring person. He
was a gentle giant and in so many ways Richard was a larger than life character and as good a friend as
anyone could ever have. He loved his family and many friends very much and they loved him very much
in return.
He is survived by his sons Zak Freeborn, Phillip and Garren Mouser. Grandchildren Blake and Maverick
Freeborn, and Garratt, Garren Jr., Daniel, and Brock Mouser. Great grandchildren Eric Patty, and Cali
Mouser, and Brook and Ashley Durfee. Also surviving are his brothers Leland Jr. and Robert Freeborn.
Funeral services will be held Monday July 11, 2022 at 10:00 AM at The Basham Funeral Care Chapel
3312 Niles St. Bakersfield, CA. 93306. Graveside services to follow at 12:30 PM at The Bakersfield
National Cemetery.