Richard Gholson

Oct. 8, 1923 Jan. 13, 2015 Richard Donald Gholson was born in Long Beach, California, on October 8th, 1923 to Noah 'Burton' Gholson and Elizabeth Burckle Gholson. He passed away on January 13, 2015 in Seaside, Oregon. Don was a fair-haired blue-eyed boy, who as a youngster, was affectionately called 'Sonny.' He then was known as Don as there were too many Richards in his elementary school. Don had hopes to become a surgeon but after meeting Nan Christian Bogk in junior college, he decided on marriage and changed his educational direction. Don received his B.S. at the University of Kansas and then attended the University of Missouri at Kansas City, where he earned his Master's in Chemistry. Don was employed in pure research at Midwest Research Institute in Kansas City, Missouri. He later worked in a marketplace career job at Cook Chemical Company and was the Research and Development Chemist for the household department. He was instrumental in the development of spray starch and plastic hinges as well as the first commercial insecticides. After retirement Don and Nan moved to California and enjoyed a life full of the arts, music, golf and friends. They relocated to Seaside, Oregon, where Nan passed away in 2006. Don lived independently until the last day of his life and had many friends. Without much difficulty, Don passed into 'Forever' on January 13, 2015. Richard Donald Gholson is outlived by his three children Jeff Gholson, daughter Jill Davis and husband Anthon, and daughter Jan Jackson along with his four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, all of whom have richly witnessed his gentrified and unique character. Don, more than once, imparted wisdom and advice which proved to be invaluable. We, his heirs, attest to the honor of his legacy and remembering him brings great joy! Our loss readily turns into gratitude. There will be no memorial service per Don's instructions. As he highly valued education it is asked that donations in his name be made to the Seaside Elks 1748 Scholarship fund.