Richard “Dick” David Waller passed away at the age of 88, just five months after the death of his beloved wife, Marilyn. He leaves behind a legacy of love as a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend. His journey began on March 28, 1937, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he was raised by his grandparents following the early loss of his mother, Mildred.
Richard and his younger brother, Ronnie, navigated their childhood attending St. John Kanty Catholic grade school and Pulaski High School. From a young age, Richard demonstrated a passion for both mathematics and music, which eventually shaped his professional life as an electrical engineer and a jazz musician. To support his education, he played in jazz nightclubs, showcasing his talent on the saxophone, clarinet, and flute.
He attended the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, before earning a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Marquette University in 1958. Following his studies, Richard served in the Wisconsin Air National Guard and began his career at Hughes Aircraft Corporation in the Radar Division, relocating to sunny Los Angeles, California, in 1959. His innovative contributions to defense projects helped pave the way for modern technology.
In 1960, Richard met the love of his life, Marilyn Herrmann, while living in the same apartment complex. Their love blossomed, leading to marriage in 1961. The couple purchased their first home in Westchester and embarked on numerous travels across Europe, South America, and Asia. They welcomed their first child, Susan, in 1966, and moved to Rancho Palos Verdes in 1969, where their son, Steven, was born in 1971.
The Waller family embraced travel as a core part of their life, enjoying trips to foreign countries and various U.S. states. They cherished moments spent with family, skiing, and visiting Hawaii. Richard’s love for music continued throughout his life, as he played in various big band jazz and Latin bands in the South Bay area, often performing at Alpine Village. He also enjoyed golfing, adding to his rich array of hobbies.
Richard is survived by his daughter, Susan (Mike) Poland; his son, Steven Waller; grandchildren Shaun, Matthew, and Sara Poland, along with Stephanie and Sophia Waller; and great-grandchild Celeste Poland. He is also remembered by his cousins and numerous nieces and nephews.
A viewing for Richard Waller will take place on January 21, 2026, from 16:00 to 20:00 in the Villleta Suite at Green Hills Mortuary. A funeral mass will follow on January 22, 2026, at 11:00 at St. John Fisher Church in Rancho Palos Verdes. A reception will be held in Barrett Hall, with burial to take place at Green Hills Cemetery.
Richard Waller’s life was a testament to love, creativity, and innovation, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him. His family and friends will forever cherish the memories of a remarkable man.
