El Dorado County (Dec 3, 2024, 2024) – With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Richard Lee Halk, a beloved patriarch, community figure, and man of resilience, love, and laughter. Known as “Rich,” he brought joy and generosity to those fortunate enough to know him. Rich’s legacy is deeply rooted in El Dorado County, where he dedicated much of his life to family, business, and community service.
Richard was born to McConnell and Laura Halk (née Drews) in Dodge City, Kansas, on October 7, 1944. He passed peacefully on December 1, 2024, stepping into the glory of God’s kingdom. A long-time resident of El Dorado County, Rich graduated from El Dorado High School in 1963. He began his career in construction, contributing to major projects like the BART Transbay Tube connecting San Francisco and Oakland.
In 1965, Rich married Roberta DeLaCruz, and together they raised four children: John, Karen, Sharon, and Michelle. He owned and operated R & R Equipment Rental on Placerville Drive, later venturing into trucking and equipment sales. In 1987, Rich married Carol Ann Stafford. After a brief time in Simi Valley, where Rich earned his real estate license and drove limousines, the couple returned to Shingle Springs in 1989 to take ownership of Halk Equipment Rental.
Tragedy struck in 1995 when Carol suffered a brain aneurysm. Rich devotedly cared for her until her passing in 2008. His steadfast love and commitment were evident to all who knew him. In addition to his business ventures, Rich was an avid car enthusiast with a particular passion for Jaguars. He owned a red 2008 XJ8 convertible and was active in the Jaguar Associate Group (JAG), where he served as newsletter editor and president. Rich cherished leading scenic drives through the winding roads of El Dorado County.
In 2004, Rich moved to the historic B.O.B. Ranch on Lotus Road, a former stagecoach stop during the Gold Rush. He delighted in sharing its rich history and hosting family events. In 2022, Rich retired from Halk Rentals, and in 2023, he accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal savior, marking a profound spiritual milestone. He was baptized by his brother, Bob Halk.
Rich is survived by his brother Robert “Bob” Halk (Marilyn) of El Dorado, CA; sister Barbara Ludwig of St. Louis, MO; son John Halk of Sacramento, CA; daughters Karen Cervantes of Merced, CA, and Sharon Halk of Alliance, NE; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Amber (Joel) Merical of Herald, CA, James Halk of San Jose, CA, Ashley (Alex) Guizar of Merced, CA, and many more. Rich is preceded in death by his wife Carol Halk, ex-wife Roberta Halk, daughter Michelle Hodgkin, and granddaughter Jessica Cervantes.
A celebration of Rich’s life will take place on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at noon at Freedom Church, 4414 Commodity Way, Cameron Park, CA. A reception and interment will follow. His family invites all who knew and loved Rich to join in honoring his remarkable life and enduring legacy.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to [local charity or cause significant to Richard’s memory].
