Richard C. Enloe
Richard Enloe was a Santa Barbara transplant and called it home for much of his life. Growing up in the family home on La Ramada Dr., he graduated from San Marcos High School in 1973. Following graduation, Richard moved to San Francisco where he attended San Francisco State for two years pursuing an art degree and later, learning the travel business. Moving back to Santa Barbara in 1986, Richard became a successful travel agent, serving the travel needs of the Santa Barbara community and beyond for over forty years. Known for his infectious smile and warm personality, he developed life-long friendships with many of his clients.
When he wasn’t working, Richard’s favorite pastimes were traveling, gardening, and spending time with animals, family, and friends. He could coax exotic flowers from the hard earth, birds from the sky, and culinary masterpieces from the oven.
An inveterate dog, cat (and squirrel) whisperer, Richard never met an animal he didn’t fall in love with. Many of these animals became family pets and flourished under Richard’s loving care.
Richard’s constant hero and companion for more than fifty years was his husband, Tony Di Sette. Always curious, viewing life as an adventure, Richard and Tony traveled the world, and inspired others to do the same. They made and kept close friendships and family ties over many decades.
Weekends at home would usually find the two in their backyard gardening, surrounded by their beloved pets and creating a welcoming oasis of beauty and tranquility for all creatures great and small. Over the years, their home became a favorite gathering place for social get-togethers with neighbors, as well as family celebrations and holiday events.
Diagnosed with cancer, Richard fought valiantly for months, but in the end, had enough hospitals and chose to be at home, surrounded by the people, animals, lovely garden and tangible reminders of cherished memories he shared with Tony, family, and friends.
All our lives were made immeasurably more fun and brighter because Richard was in them. His spirit and joyful exuberance will continue to be a part of us all. A celebration of life service will take place later in the year. In the meantime, raise a glass in remembrance of a simply wonderful human being who left us too soon.
