In the early morning hours of August 12, 2021, Richard E. “Dick” Campbell left his earthly body behind as he slipped away peacefully at home with his wife by his side.

Dick was born in Warsaw, Indiana, on July 20, 1936. He was the oldest of six siblings. After graduating from Warsaw High School in 1954, Dick joined the Air Force where he served proudly for two years before attending and graduating from Purdue University in 1963. With his degree in electrical engineering, Dick then joined NASA Langley Research Center for the next 35 years, until his retirement in 2001. He is remembered, admired, and respected by his many friends and colleagues.

He was preceded in death by his first wife of 58 years, Elsie Campbell. Their daughter, Amy Nicole Campbell, will always love and fondly remember her father; or, as she called him, her “Suey”. He will also be dearly missed by his brother, Michael Campbell (Barbara), and sister, Christina Gillespie (Gary).

Dick is survived by his loving and caring wife of 12 years, Karin U. Campbell. Through their marriage, he enjoyed three additional children, Michelle (Dave), Suzanne (Wendy), and Martina (John); grandchildren, Chase (Deanna), Ryley, Carly, Hunter, and Gemma (Justin); and many great-grandchildren who all adored him. Dick and Karin were very fortunate to have had time to go on many great adventures with one another and spend their days doing what they loved most- being together. They were best friends who could always find something to laugh about. One of Dick’s final thoughts was shared as “I had a good run for 85 years and don’t make a fuss when I’m gone”.

A celebration of Dick’s life will be held on Thursday, August 19, 2021, at 3:00 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, Virginia 23601. The CDC highly recommends masks for inside gatherings.

In lieu of sending flowers, Dick requested that memorial donations be made to an animal shelter of the sender’s choosing. Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home.