Richard Frank Gierke

December 20, 1938 – February 6, 2026

Richard Frank Gierke, affectionately known to friends and family as “Dick,” passed away peacefully on February 6, 2026, in Santa Clara, California, following a brief illness. He was 87 years old and was surrounded by the love of his family during his final moments.

Born on December 20, 1938, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, Richard was the youngest of three children and the only son born to Ruth Ann and Leroy Gierke. He grew up in the heart of the Midwest before answering the call to serve his country. On March 7, 1958, Richard joined the United States Air Force. He served four years of active duty, primarily stationed in New York, and was honorably discharged in 1962.

Seeking new horizons, Richard moved west to Santa Barbara, California, where he met the love of his life, Joy Gregory. The two were wed on November 26, 1966, beginning a beautiful 50-year journey together. They remained devoted to one another until Joy’s passing in October 2015 after her courageous battle with cancer.

In 1970, Richard and Joy moved from Santa Barbara to San Jose, which would remain Richard’s home for the next 55 years. A dedicated professional, Richard worked for Balch Petroleum from 1976 until his retirement in December 2003. He took immense pride in his career; his children fondly remember family road trips across California being peppered with stops at various gas stations just so Richard could point out the installations he had personally overseen.

Beyond his professional life, Richard was a man of simple pleasures and deep loyalties. He was a fixture at New Jersey Resturant, where he gathered with friends to cheer on the San Francisco 49ers and indulge his passion for NASCAR—earning him the nickname “Nascar Dick.” When he wasn't at his favorite local haunt, he was often found in his kitchen. A talented cook who loved watching Netflix, Richard spent many Sundays with the race on the TV and a pot on the stove, always making enough food to ensure there were plenty of leftovers to share with those he loved.

Richard’s greatest legacy is the large, vibrant family he leaves behind. He is survived by his older sister, Darlene, of Wisconsin; his four children, Richard “Rick” Gierke (Cathryn), Dave Lawrence Gierke (Lara), Gregory Allen Gierke (Maryann), and Elizabeth Ann “Beth” James (Anthony); six grandchildren, Cortney Burger, Athena Gierke, Brock Gierke, Griffin Gierke, Thomas James, and Nicholas James; and his great-grandchild, Hank Burger.

Richard will be remembered as a proud veteran, a master of the grill, and a devoted father and grandfather who found his greatest joy in the company of his friends and family.