Richard Tran Hauben

1973 - 2012

Richard Tran Hauben obituary, 1973-2012

BORN

1973

DIED

2012

FUNERAL HOME

Palm Downtown Mortuary & Cemetery

1325 North Main St

Las Vegas, Nevada

Richard Hauben Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Sep. 20, 2012.

Lt Col Richard Hauben, USAF, passed away Saturday, September 15th at his home in Henderson. Lt Col Hauben was born in Saigon, Vietnam and lived overseas for over 18 years, graduating high school in Islamabad, Pakistan. He was commissioned in 1995 after completing Virginia Military Institute's Air Force ROTC program as a distinguished graduate. Lt Col Hauben completed Undergraduate Pilot Training at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi, Texas in 1997and C-130 Initial Qualification Course at Little Rock AFB, Arkansas in 1998. Lt Col Hauben served in numerous assignments, with both the Air Force and Navy, as an instructor pilot, flight commander, operations officer, and, most recently, a squadron commander in the Las Vegas area. Lt Col Hauben deployed numerous times in support of operations in several areas of responsibility including Iraq and Afghanistan. Lt Col Hauben was a senior pilot with more than 2,500 hours in numerous light, medium, and heavy fixed-wing aircraft. He was the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor for actions in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, as well as the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Medal and Aerial Achievement Medal, among others. Lt Col Hauben is survived by his parents, Michael and Thu-Mai Hauben, brother, Frank Hauben, wife, Joy Hauben and his two sons, Eugene, 6, Bruce, 4, and daughter, Vivienne, 2. A memorial service will be held at Palm Downtown Mortuary on Saturday, September 22nd, at 2:00 PM.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Hauben

What is your first memory of Richard?

Share a favorite memory you have of Richard.

Tell us about a special moment you shared with Richard.

Describe a time when Richard made you laugh or smile.

What is something you will always remember about Richard?

Talk about a shared experience you had with Richard.

What is something you did together that you enjoyed?

Describe a place or activity that reminds you of Richard.

Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving Richard.

What is something you learned from Richard?

Not sure what to say?

May 29, 2013

As I came across this obituary today, I am saddened to read of the loss of Col. Richard Hauben. Please accept my sympathy for the loss of this accomplished man.

January 17, 2013

T White

Joy: Hi it's Taylor.
I am so sort about Rich, I know how important he was to you and the kids. I am so sorry once again, call me if you need help.

October 12, 2012

Linwood Wells

In the time that I knew Rich, he left an indelible remark on me with his enthusiasm and passion. I was privileged to serve with him and I will keep your family in my prayers. Please accept my heartfelt condolences and sympathies.

October 11, 2012

LtCol Tim Mewes

My deepest sympathy to the entire Hauben family. I had the pleasure of working with Rich when we were Lieutenants in the 41st at Pope. I'll always remember Rich as a great person and patriot full of life, enthusiasm, and a healthy share of humor. He will be sorely missed. All of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

October 7, 2012

Herb Thompson

Rich, you were my friend, you were my brother. You were many things and had many impressive accomplishments. Most important, you were a great husband and father. You inspired me to be a better dad for my son. Thank you. Your spirit of adventure, service and family will live on in Gene, Bruce and Vivenne (and my son too). Peace and Love to Joy, Frank, Hope and the Hauben/Ferguson families.

October 1, 2012

Gary and Ellen Lattanzio

Dear Joy and kids,

So saddened to hear of your loss. Rich was such a great Dad. Please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.

September 28, 2012

Henryk Zaleski

Rest in peace Richard.

September 27, 2012

Gil Baker

God Bless you, Rich. You made pilot training in Del Rio, Texas fun for all of us. Your impact on our lives will never be forgotten.

September 26, 2012

For the Commander, Carroll R. Michaud

The Final Salute

“Brothers in Arms”, Military men and women down through the centuries, have traditionally exchanged “Hand Salutes” as a sign of recognition and as a way to render courtesy and respect one to another.

This “Hand Salute” is the last that we shall render to LTC Richard Tran Hauben our Brother in Arms. To his family it symbolizes the love and respect that we have for Richard. And to Richard it is rendered as a symbol of honor and gratitude to thank him for the service he rendered to his country during Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedoms while serving as a Senior Pilot and Squadron Commander in the U.S. Air Force. No greater love and patriotism is shown than a man lay down his life in service to his country. Richard, you are a loyal Air Force Warrior and a true Patriot. We bid you a sad farewell. You will be dearly missed from among our ranks. Be at ease. Rest in Peace.

On behalf of the 1,261 military veteran Legionnaires of Lowe-McFarlane Post 14 of the American Legion in Shreveport, Louisiana, I extend our sympathies and our condolences to Richard's family and loved ones.

Stephen J. Lavery, Commander, American Legion Post 14
5315 S. Lakeshore Drive, Shreveport, LA 71109

September 25, 2012

I did not know Lt. Col Richard Hauben, but would like to offer my sorrow, as I came across his obituary today. How fortunate his family, friends and colleagues were to have had such an amazing person in their lives. I offer you all my deepest sympathy and many prayers to his young children.

September 25, 2012

John Gates

I remember Richard and his parents from our Islamabad days. It was an honor knowing him. My condolences to his parents and young family.

September 24, 2012

VICKY CLINEMAN

Joy and family,
We will cherish our time with him as our commander and friend. He was the best commander ever and we will never forget him. His ideas will live on to make a better Air Force. Our prayers are with you and our arms wrapped around you all. When you see a beautiful butterfly think of him soaring above you like an angel.

September 24, 2012

Jennifer Bauer

In Loving memory of a wonderful man, father, husband, and friend. You will be missed

September 24, 2012

John & Martini Dial

We were saddened to hear of Richard's passing---our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife, children & parents. God bless you. John & Martini Dial

September 23, 2012

Bill O'Donnell

Joy & Family,

My prayers and thoughts are with you. I swam w/Rich at VMI and had the luxury of being his Rat during his Ring Figure celebrations. It was with Rich that I took my first flight in a Cessna as cadets at VMI; his love for flying was contagious. I have no doubt he's flying someplace great again. Your entire family will always be in my prayers as will Rich.

September 23, 2012

Deutsch family

Hauben family; our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

September 23, 2012

Barry Greenfield

Although I only knew Rich and his family for a short time he made a lasting impression on me that will last forever! He was a bright young man and a very loving father as I evidenced first hand. He is now on a far better place than any of us! Rich, you will sorely missed. Mr. Barry

September 23, 2012

Lew Skinner

Joy, my heart goes out to you and your family. Many of your extended family from the old Pope days have celebrated his life this past week. We all hurt with you and stand by you as being a part of his life will stay with us forever.

September 22, 2012

TV & Bernadette Smith

Joy and Children,
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. I had the honor of working with Rich and will never forget the way he could just light up the room when he entered! He will be sorely missed. Our deepest sympathy.

TV & Bernadette Smith

September 22, 2012

May your family be in gods hands and loving arms. Jeff the limo guy ,,,,,

September 22, 2012

Chelena Jaffke

True professional. Love of his family first in his life. Seeds he planted throughout the years will continue to flourish for many years to come. Local boy forever.

September 22, 2012

William Griffith

Heartfelt prayers go out to the entire Hauben family. I remember Frank bragging about his brother ever so slightly a time or two.

September 22, 2012

Is there anyone out there that can help me find the word to describe Rich's vibrant personality? I met Rich the 1st time for their VMI 10th year reunion. I never understood the deep attachment of all alumni until Rich started saying what they did and how they did their mischievous stuff during their VMI years. Rich, you can be an actor, comedian, a loving father, husband, son, brother, friend, colleague, leader…this world has lost one of its bright sun. Joy, in faith only is where you can find comfort, Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your lovely kids.

September 22, 2012

Matt, Amy, Garrett, Gabe, Aiden and Ava Keehner

Words can not express how saddened and heavy our hearts are. May God hold all of you close to him during these trying times and give you strength and comfort. We never know why God calls some of us sooner than others but we can take comfort in knowing he is safe in God's loving embrace. All of our love.

September 22, 2012

John Henry

To the Hauben family,
My deepest condolescences as words fall short of expressing my sorrow. The world is certainly a darker place without Rich. He was a loyal friend, and I will miss him greatly.

Godspeed, Brother.

September 22, 2012

Scott and Darci Quamme

Our heartfelt sympathy to you Joy and your children... we are so sorry for your loss, although we never met your husband it is very evident by other posts how wonderful he was. Please let the Good Lord guide you and your little ones during this very difficult time. Many thoughts and prayers with you and your entire family. Thinking of you. Please take care,

September 22, 2012

Bill Yadao

Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. Thank-you for having Rich as part of our noon work out crowd. We will miss the joking, smell of Bengay, sports talk, and mission oriented thinking he possessed! His music blasted through the weight room last Wed in his honor. His presence will be sorely missed by all!

September 21, 2012

Cindy Humphrey

My deepest and most heart felt condolences to Joy and family. Tho I never met Richard, I will hold him in my "heart of honor" for all those brave service members who have given so much for us. He will never be forgotten and will always be honored.

September 21, 2012

Rob Hagemann

Our deepest condelences to your entire family

September 21, 2012

Carlos Quintana

My condlences to the Hauben family. I am deeply saddened for Rich's tragic loss. I knew Rich for the last couple of years when he worked in Tampa and here in Las Vegas. He brightenned the day by just walking into the room. I am very sorry for you great loss.

September 21, 2012

Christine Villegas

My deepest condolences to the Hauben family.I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers always. I'm at a loss for any other words, but I am so so sorry..

Rest in Peace Richard Hauben

September 21, 2012

CRC Heatlh Group

Joy, Gene, Bruce & Viv -

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you at this most difficult time...

September 21, 2012

Marcy Buchan

Condolences to Richard's family, his friends, and co-workers for the tragic loss of a very special man. We that knew him and loved him are devastated that Rich is gone. We grieve alongside Joy, Mike, Thu-Mai, Frank, and the three beautiful children, even if we all cannot be there in person. My son, Jon, daughter, Laura Lyn, and I have known Rich (and his wonderful family) since he was 13 when he and Jon were best buds in Manila, 26 years ago. We were lucky enough, after Manila, to be in Pakistan together, as his Dad and I received postings there at the same time. What a treat for the boys to continue being together, the International School of Islamabad and homes not too far apart. Jon considered him not only a friend, but akin to a brother. Rich loved his young family, his parents, his brother, his friends, and his military work. Such love, sense of humor, energy, intelligence, and spirit - can all this really be gone? He had a joie de vivre that was infectious. I once teased him calling him a Mexican jumping bean when Rich accompanied Jon and me to a week at Disney World and environs. He couldn't keep still in any seat; and when it was his turn at the wheel, he was constantly moving about, enough that the Dodge Shadow moved with him! I often wondered if as a pilot he wiggled that much! Never got around to asking that question! Rich and Jon were close during their college years - Jon would visit Rich at VMI and Rich would often come to No. VA, where Jon attended college. They have remained close friends, albeit by email, International School Class Reunions, and Facebook postings. When Rich would occasionally fly his C-130 into McClellan AFB near Sacramento for an overnight, he would call us up (we lived in Folsom). We'd go out to dinner and take him around sight-seeing. Rich went on many trips with us, attended my daughter's wedding, and kept in touch with Jon and me as much as his busy life allowed. Once married to Joy, his family began to grow and the pictures on Facebook of Joy and three children were wonderful. He showed such love and affection for them through his words, the photos, and the hiking, boating, and other adventures that he did with the children, even taking the two boys bravely on his own to visit with his parents in Hawaii. Rich is missed, he is loved, and the world just lost a wonderful human being. My son has a very heavy heart, as do Jon's wife, April, my daughter, Laura Lyn, and I. Rest in peace our friend.

Posted by Marcy Buchan

September 21, 2012

Heidi Feuerhelm

Joy, I am so very sorry for your loss. I can't imagine what you must be feeling. I will keep you and your children in my thoughts and prayers.

September 21, 2012

John Mabe

Husband, Dad, combat aviator, leader, colleague, and friend. Colonel Hauben, memories of you and your steadfast support to our Nation's cause will not be forgotten. Your legacy includes being among warriors who directly sacrificed to thwart those seeking to harm our way of life - having witnessed your efforts, we are humbled.

To Joy and family, the honorifics about Rich's impact are yours as no man has supported his Nation's cause without the mutual sacrifice of his loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you seek solace and understanding.

With sincerity and respect,
John and Sherri Mabe

September 21, 2012

Joy: Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family through this heartbreaking time. There's nothing I can say that will ease your pain but I just wanted you to know we are thinking of you. Our deepest condolences.
~~~Dan Wiethorn & Family

September 21, 2012

Craig Terry

My deepest sympathy to you and your lovely children,I never had A brother but if I had ,I would have wanted him to be just like Rich,Thankyou for sharing him with us this past year!! He was always A pleasure to work with and we will miss him greatly.I spent several hours flying with Rich A week ago last tues,even though he had A bad cold he was always fun to fly with. All of us in the Squadron will really miss him.Sincerely, Craig Terry.

September 21, 2012

Dearest Joy, Gene, Bruce and Little Viv;
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in the presence of your family and extended family and all of us as we pray and grieve with you on this unexpected journey. We'll be in touch. Aunt Dawn & Uncle Mike - Sydney, Justin & Claire

Showing 1 - 38 of 38 results

Make a Donation
in Richard Hauben's name

Memorial Events
for Richard Hauben

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Palm Downtown Mortuary & Cemetery

1325 North Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101

How to support Richard's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Richard Hauben's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more