Richard Karon ’65

Richard T. “Dick” Karon of Jamestown RI died at home from pancreatic cancer on July 8, 2010 surrounded by his family and dog Buddy. Dick graduated from Carleton College and earned his PhD in systems engineering from The University of Pennsylvania. Recently retired from his position of Engineering Fellow and IRAD Director at Raytheon in Portsmouth RI, he was involved in Toastmasters International, where he earned the title of Distinguished Toastmaster several times and found a ready audience for his sense of humor. He enjoyed volunteering and mentoring for various organizations, including Boy Scouts of America, and felt strongly that his donation of time and energy would make the world a better place. A lover of nature and sailing, Dick lived his life passionately and fully to the end. Since boyhood, Dick spent time with his family in Jackson Hole, WY, riding horses, fishing, hiking, camping, and climbing The Grand Teton. Dick is survived by his wife of 41 years, Linda, daughter Jennifer Karon-Flores and son-in-law Bill Karon-Flores of Portland, OR,  son Jonathan Karon and daughter-in-law Lori Snow of Portland, OR, and three granddaughters. 

Excerpted from The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel