Richard Francis Lucinio, a longtime Topanga resident since 1967, passed away peacefully at his home on June 27, 2026, at the age of 89.
A Caltech graduate, Air Force veteran, and engineer, Richard helped develop the technology that made the Hubble Space Telescope possible. He lived an incredible life, hiking the mountains of Peru, winning motorcycle racing competitions in Japan, and never losing his sense of curiosity about the world.
Music was one of Richard’s greatest passions. He believed it should be shared, and over the years he generously gave musical instruments to countless children, encouraging them to discover the joy of playing. His quiet generosity helped inspire a love of music that will continue for generations. In his honor, the Richard Lucinio Music Program is being established to carry on that legacy and give young people the same opportunities he so freely gave to others.
Richard first settled on Fernwood, where he found the peace and community he loved. Richard became family to the Altman and Gauthier and Selzler families, and a beloved grandfather figure to Taj and Cora. He was always ready with a story, a lesson, or a conversation that left you thinking long after it ended.
Richard will be remembered not only for his remarkable career, but for his kindness, generosity, and the genuine interest he took in the people around him. He made a lasting impact on everyone lucky enough to know him.
Surviving relatives: sisters : (Glorianne) Sister Jeanette Lucinio, SP, of St. Mary of the Woods, Indiana; Annette Galban of Chicago; Betsy Ford of Florida; and son Richard B. Lucinio of Oregon.
Rest in peace, Richard. You will always be missed and never forgotten.
