Richard M. Safron, 77

SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. - Richard M. Safron, 77, formerly of Youngstown, passed away Friday, Jan. 5, at Sherman Hospice of the Valley, surrounded by his family.
Richard was born Nov. 26, 1929 in Youngstown, a son of the late Michael J. Saffron and Helen Saffron-Douglas.
Mr. Saffron served his country by joining the U.S. Marines in September of 1949, rising through the ranks to the highly-respected position of Marine Drill-Sergeant, and was honorably discharged in January of 1952.
He subsequently graduated from Youngstown State University with a bachelor's degree in accounting. Richard was employed in Phoenix at Motorola as a computer programmer. He retired in 1995.
Richard was a humble, gentle man and devoted husband and father who loved Jesus Christ and used the Lord’s life as the example to live his own. No one ever heard Richard complain despite having to make incredible sacrifices to raise his daughter, Sherry Ann, and, at the same time care for his first wife, Margaret “Margie” Kanocz-Safron, whom he married in August of 1958.
In 1995, he married his wife, Ilona. As a couple they enjoyed the last decade of Richard’s life doing activities which he loved most; traveling, photography, remodeling and handy work, and putting together his family tree and computer photo albums.
Richard is survived by his wife, Ilona; his daughter, Sherry Ann McQueen; two grandchildren, Chalyce M. McQueen and Tara L. McQueen; his brother, Charles; and his sister, Joan Lutsky.
A public viewing will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 12, at Messinger Indian School Mortuary in Scottsdale. Services are open to the public and will be held at the same location at 11 a.m. on Saturday Jan. 13.
Flowers can be sent to Messinger Mortuary, 7601 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85251. Donations may also be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014.
Please visit www.kinnickfuneralhome.com to view this obituary and send condolences sent to the family.