November 03, 1959 - March 15, 2022
Richard Todd Messersmith passed away on Tuesday March 15th surrounded by family after a long fought battle with cancer.
Todd was born on November 3rd, 1959 in Twin Falls, Idaho to Richard Gene Messersmith and Twyla Rae Melton as the second of four children. Later, his dad remarried, and Todd was blessed with an additional mom, Deaun Messersmith. Through this blended family, Todd found joy in being the only brother amongst six sisters. He spent his childhood in Twin Falls enjoying his time outdoors hunting and riding horses as an active member of the Twin Falls Riding Club. Todd always loved spending time with family, and he especially treasured his relationship with his grandparents.
He graduated from Twin Falls High School in 1978 where he met his sweetheart, Karol Ann Casperson. Always looking for an adventure, Todd pursued a career as an electrician with IBEW, where he traveled throughout the west working and enjoying life to the fullest. Todd and Karol married on May 5th, 1984 in Twin Falls, Idaho. They were blessed with three children: Sarah Karrin, Richard Trevor, and Samantha Jade. They were then sealed as a family for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake City Temple.
The couple moved to Galt, California in March of 1985, where they established a California Charmac Trailer dealership. The young couple created what has grown into a successful family owned and operated line of dealerships throughout Northern California, California Custom Trailers and Power Sports. It was through his business and desire to serve the community, Todd found fulfillment serving in multiple capacities in Galt as school board member, basketball coach, Boy Scout Leader, and church leader.
Todd has always enjoyed being outdoors; horseback riding, coaching basketball, boating, and he was a power sports enthusiast. He lived by the motto, “work hard, but play harder” to maximize life and make memories with his loved ones. Family was everything to Todd. He lived his life to create joy for his children and grandchildren. Ten of his most favorite people call him “Papa”, a name he chose above all others. This role is where he naturally excelled, and all of his grandkids had not only a papa, but a friend in him. He spent his time in the arena, on the basketball court, in the water, and exploring the mountains with them.
Todd was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His character exemplified the true love of Christ as he served and loved others. His humble example touched all those around him through his daily interactions both in and out of church.
Todd is survived by his wife, Karol Messersmith; children, Karrin (Josh) Blevins, Trevor (Thiriza) Messersmith, Samantha (Joe) Vitoria; and his ten grandchildren, Wyatt, Kamrynn, Tenley, Katelynn, Taysom, Weston, Trey, Tripp, Charlee, and Colt; his mother Twyla Melton; sisters, RaJean (Wes) Weast, Ranae (Mark) Bunker, Rhea (Chris) Newell; his mother, Deaun Messersmith; sisters, Denise (John) McClusky, Kim (Mac) McReynolds, and Monica (Brady) Panatopoulos.
He is preceded in death by his father, Richard Gene Messersmith and his mother-in-law, Alice Charlene Casperson.
He left us way too soon.
VISITATION
A viewing will be held on Thursday March 24th at Vineyard Chapel from 5-6 pm at 14165 N. Beckman Rd in Lodi. A memorial service will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1510 W Century Blvd at 10 am on Friday March 25th and the graveside service will follow at 12 pm at Cherokee Memorial 14165 N. Beckman Rd. in Lodi.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 pm at the Messersmith Ranch, 13477 Alta Mesa Rd. in Galt.
Please leave your condolences below.
Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Messersmith family.
