Richard C Ham

Richard C. Ham

March 20, 1967 – January 22, 2024

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend, Richard C. Ham (56), who joined our Heavenly Father on Monday evening, January 22, 2024. Richard passed away peacefully at his home with his loving wife, Nikki, by his side.

Born on March 20, 1967 in Seoul, South Korea, Richard was the youngest of three children born to Jay and Kay Ham. He immigrated to the United States on September 18, 1971 at the age of 4, and spent the majority of his formative years in Cerritos, California.

Following his graduation from Cerritos High School in 1985, Richard landed a job at 19 years old working in the mailroom of the Hilton Anaheim - Anaheim Convention Center. This position sparked Richard’s love for the hospitality industry and set Richard on what would become an illustrious career path. While working at Hilton, Richard completed his college education with a B.A. in Political Science from California State University, Long Beach. Hilton then sent and sponsored him to attend Cornell University’s prestigious hospitality management certification program.

Richard’s magnetic personality and sharp business mind led him to rise through the corporate ranks at Hilton, serving various positions at flagship locations. He was the Director of Front Office at the Hilton Portland, Oregon before being transferred back to the Hilton Anaheim as one of the youngest Hotel Managers appointed to the position. Later, Richard served as the General Manager of the Hilton Costa Mesa, CA.

Born an entrepreneur and having mastered the art of managing hotels and restaurants with Hilton for 17 years, Richard took a leap of faith to become his own boss. In 2002, Richard came across a small hotel in a great location that was in need of repair and attention. Richard acquired La Casa del Camino in Laguna Beach, CA and transformed its rooftop into the Rooftop Lounge, which was the first rooftop bar in Laguna Beach.

As Richard’s business grew, so did his generosity. Over the years, Richard became heavily involved in many philanthropic and civic causes, devoting substantial time in philanthropic leadership positions to garner support for causes close to his heart.

After over a decade of growing his businesses, traveling, and spending time with friends, Richard met his true love, Nikki. Their love was instant. In 2015, they were married in a beautiful outdoor ceremony surrounded by family and friends. In 2016, they welcomed their son, Richard Jr. (“RJ”) followed by their daughter, Rachel, in 2019. RJ and Rachel became the moon and stars to Richard and Nikki. Richard often said that of all his successes, accomplishments, and life experiences, finding his family was what completed his soul. Richard spent every day focused on being the best father and husband he could be. He and Nikki grounded their family in faith and love.

Richard was blessed with a magnanimous personality. Everyone who knew Richard would describe him as full of energy with an infectious laugh that could be heard from miles away. He lived an incredibly full and generous life. If the measure of a man is based not on how he dies, but how he lives; and not on what he gains, but what he gives – Richard C. Ham is the truest measure of a man.

Richard is survived in life by his wife Nikki, son RJ (7) and daughter Rachel (4).

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, February 9th at 1:30 pm at Sky Rose Chapel and Mausoleum at Rose Hills, 3888 Workman Mill Rd., Whittier, CA 90601.

The service will entail a funeral Mass, eulogy, and wake for guests to pay their final respects. Immediately following the service, there will be a procession to Richard's final resting place and a brief burial ceremony. All are welcome to attend as we say our final committals to Richard who was beloved by so many.

Special Request:

The pillars of Richard’s life were his faith and family. As a father to RJ and Rachel, Richard spent his last years actively involved in fundraising for his children’s school, St. Serra Catholic Elementary School. Richard held St. Serra School dear to his heart having witnessed the invaluable benefits that a faith-based education gave to his kids. The school has a scholarship program for families facing financial challenges who desire a faith-based education for their children. Donations made in Richard’s memory will aid these families in need.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to St. Serra Elementary School via the link below. The link was specially created in loving memory of Richard and at the family’s request.

St. Serra Catholic Elementary School Donation Link:

https://host.nxt.blackbaud.com/donor-form/?svcid=tcs&formId=b2d57f32-a94a-4586-87eb-7296e876dc08&envid=p-8bOIYmhusU6juf3_dWY5qA&zone=usa