Richard was born November 1, 1933 to Herbert and Violet Lyke of Indianapolis, Indiana. In January 1955 he married Ernestine Dodd and raised 3 children Terry, Larry and Cheryl. Richard was a true believer in volunteering his time. He coached youth bowling, baseball and served as Boy Scout leader when his sons were young. He also taught classes for the American Red Cross. He served his community on the Oaklandon and Castleton Volunteer Fire Departments. Richard retired from Local IBEW 481 in 1995, then went to work for Royal Pin as an in-school bowling instructor known as "Grandpa Grouch" to the kids. He was awarded "Grandparent of the Year" from the Lawrence Township School system in 1996.