Richard’s early business interests never strayed away from aviation. In 1968, Richard took his company, Bertea Corporation, public as a leading aerospace supplier of hydraulic flight controls with major market penetration in commercial aircraft programs.

In 1978, Bertea Corporation merged with Parker Hannifin a producer of motion control components and systems for industrial, automotive, aviation, space, and marine markets. Richard remained with Parker Hannifin as Chairman of the Executive Committee and a Director until his retirement in 1993. He remains an avid aviation enthusiast, supporting the industry whenever he can.

Richard has been involved in several philanthropies and held various professional and community leadership positions. He was the founding President of the Orange County Young Presidents Organization (YPO) as well as the Orange County Sheriff’s Advisory Council. Richard has served on the board of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Los Angeles and Orange County.

Richard and his wife Hyla, currently reside in Corona Del Mar, California. They have four grown children and eight grandchildren. The family is active in community and charitable support in and around Orange County.