Kristie Richard Elzinga
Born in Santa Monica and raised in Tarzana, Kristie was a true California (Cali) Girl!
Blessed to be the daughter of Jennie P. and Raymond J. Richard, and the big sister to brother Raymond J. and sister Jacqueline (Jackie). She attended Sequoia Jr. High, Reseda High School and Pierce JC. While at Pierce Kristie was cover girl of the school’s twentieth centennial yearbook and enjoyed cheering leading. Kristie started her career at American Airlines in Passenger Services at LAX. For twenty years (1969-1989) she worked in all areas of customer service, including the opportunity to share her smile and warmth with thousands of passengers, while making the first TV commercial for AAL and L.A. newsprint. Soon afterwards, Kristie joined the banking industry (1990-2013) starting with Bank of America and ending her career with Rabo Bank. In between she celebrated thirteen years with her favorite banking institution, Santa Barbara Bank & Trust!
Despite career success, Kristie’s family and friends came first. Kristie especially enjoyed being a wife, mother, grandmother and godmother. Always quick to run errands for those in need, she will be remembered for her hospitality, warmth and grace. Her home was always open to family and friends, and even if she didn’t know you. Kristie was approachable and was friendly with all people.
During her lifetime Kristie served on several community boards. All near and dear to her heart, Oxnard College Foundation, Port Hueneme Kiwanis, California Strawberry Festival, OceanAir Federal Credit Union (formerly CBC), Oxnard Ambassadors and The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Oxnard and Pt. Hueneme. Kristie also spent time as a state-certified Ombudsman for Ventura County, a very rewarding experience.
Kristie leaves behind the ‘love of her life’, husband Richard (Dick) Elzinga. Married for over thirty-three years, both enjoyed traveling the world. Kristie was Dick’s co-pilot in life and in the cockpit! Enjoying different parts of the world and living life to the fullest. They loved living in Oxnard on the water. Kristie enjoyed playing pickleball, working out with girlfriends in Pt. Hueneme and participating in a monthly book club, quarterly gourmet dinner parties and socials at the Harbour Island clubhouse.
Kristie is blessed to have her son Michael James Richard, who remains the light of her life. Marriage brought stepson Adam Elzinga and stepdaughter Kim Elzinga and three gorgeous grandchildren George, Henry and Clementine Elzinga (Brisbane, Australia). Kristie was thrilled to be Godmother to Ross Ashcraft and Blake Ashcraft.
Kristie was blessed to remain friends with her high school buddies, for over sixty years! While living in Ventura County Kristie developed many friends, who were as close as family. Far too many people to mention, just know that each one of you made a difference in my life and my journey was more complete and happier because of each one of you. Blessings~
In lieu of flowers please make donations to: The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Oxnard & Pt. Hueneme, 1900 West Fifth St. Oxnard, CA 93030
Kristie’s services will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, September 9th at Santa Clara Mortuary at 2370 North H street, Oxnard.
