MARKHAM, Richard G.

Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles, Calif. Tuesday, April 2, 2002 Richard G. Markham Richard G. Markham of Prescott, AZ, retired research executive and businessman, died in his home, Sunday, March 31, 2002. Mr. Markham, 76, had been owner of Aquarium Pump Supply, manufacturer of aquarium pumps widely used throughout the United States, until he sold the business and retired several years ago. After retirement, his interest in engineering and research led him into a new business career as patent holder and vice president of Oxycal Labs of Prescott. Born June 18, 1925, Altadena, California, to Fred Smith and Maziebelle Glover Markham, he was married in April 1950 to the former Jonne Pearson of Boise. Mrs. Markham survives. Active in business and community service at both the local and state levels, Mr. Markham was one of the organizers of the Bank of Prescott and served as a director and first vice president. The bank subsequently was merged into the Arizona Bank, now a part of the Bank of America. Appointed by Gov. Jack Williams to the Arizona Department of Economic Planning and Development, he served until 1972. He was treasurer of the Arizona State Republican Committee, 1970-72. He also had been active in the Arizona Academy, sponsor of the semiannual Arizona Town Halls, and served as a trustee of both the Orme School (1970-83) and Prescott College (1979-83). A supporter of the Frontier Days Rodeo, Mr. Markham had been a member of Brushpoppers, a community group assisting the Prescott Jaycees, then the rodeo's sponsoring organization. As one of the original investors of The Paper, a weekly newspaper serving the Prescott area, Mr. Markham in 1975 assumed responsibility for the publication, making certain that it continued to function as an additional news medium in Yavapai County. After two successive changes in ownership, the newspaper ceased publication several years ago. In his business career, Mr. Markham was recognized both for his integrity and for his continuing devotion to the best interests of employees. One former business associate commented that "when Dick Markham made a statement or promise to you, you could pretty much chisel it in granite." A graduate of California Institute of Technology (Cal Tech) with a degree in mechanical engineering, Mr. Markham went on to earn a master of science from Stanford University in the same field in 1947. He served as a U.S. Navy officer during World War II. In addition to his wife, Mr. Markham is survived by his brother, Dr. Charles H. Markham of Santa Barbara, California; by five children, Janet Blackinger Markham and husband, William S. Otwell; Dr. Fred S. Markham and Mary Ann; Richard G. Markham, Jr. and Judi; Charlie and his wife Sandy and Marilyn Markham Petrich and husband Al Petrich. Also surviving are nine grandchildren and 12 nieces and nephews, including Arthur T. Markham of Prescott and Christine Lytle of Wickenburg. He was preceded in death by his sister, Mariana Markham Wiggins. Services will be held Friday, April 5th, 3:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, Prescott, AZ. Arrangements by Hampton Funeral Home. The family suggests memorials to Catholic Social Services of Yavapai or the Yavapai County Community Foundation.