Silvergate Rancho Bernardo proudly hosted a lifetime achievement and proclamation ceremony on Wednesday, May 29th to honor distinguished resident, the Honorable Richard C. Matheron. Friends, family, neighbors, and local dignitaries came together to celebrate Matheron’s remarkable 37-year career in the U.S. Foreign Service.
Silvergate Representative, Bob Beavers, recounted Matheron’s storied Foreign Service career which spanned from 1949 to 1986. Among the highlights he shared was Matheron’s 1972 appointment by President Jimmy Carter as the U.S. Ambassador to Swaziland (now Eswatini).
Matheron’s exemplary service and dedication to the country were officially recognized with a San Diego City proclamation bestowed by City Council Member Marni Von Wilpert and Rancho Bernardo Director of Community Engagement, Quinton Grounds.
The City Council officially declared May 29th as “Richard Matheron Day” in Rancho Bernardo, a testament to Matheron’s enduring legacy. The ceremony included the presentation of a commemorative lapel pin to Matheron, recognizing his invaluable contributions to U.S. diplomacy and international relations.
San Diego City Council Member Marni Von Wilpert, who serves the Fifth District and hails from Rancho Bernardo herself, added, “I’m so honored that I get to recognize a local hero here in Rancho Bernardo. Ambassador Matheron’s career exemplifies the highest standards of civil service. His work has had a lasting impact, and it is a privilege to honor his contributions on behalf of the City of San Diego. He’s a pretty incredible man. It’s terrific that Silvergate has made this happen today.”
Radiant Hospice, which is dedicated to providing personalized end-of-life care and support, co-hosted the ceremony, underscoring the collaborative spirit of the event. The organization’s Volunteer Coordinator, Socorro Chavira-Lipka, helped spearhead the effort to recognize the many contributions Matheron has made over the years, including his work as an intelligence research specialist and an international relations officer during his time in the U.S. State Department.
“We’re delighted to have come together with Silvergate to honor the unbelievable career that Mr. Matheron has had,” said Chavira-Lipka, who originally reached out to the honoree’s family about a recognition ceremony. “I wanted to make sure that the Ambassador was properly acknowledged for the time he spent serving our country. We’re so thankful for his contributions to our nation.”
The event, which took place in Silvergate’s formal community banquet room, was complemented by upscale refreshments prepared by the community’s professional executive chef, Joseph Fernandez, adding a touch of culinary elegance to the celebration. Local keyboardist and professional singer, Dani Gali, provided entertainment for the ceremony.
About Silvergate Rancho Bernardo
Silvergate is a full-service retirement community offering independent living, assisted living and memory care. As a senior living community with a broad spectrum of care, and decades of experience in the industry, Silvergate is proud to have been recognized for its superior service levels and for making a difference in the lives of seniors right here in San Diego County.
To learn more about the senior living lifestyle at Silvergate Rancho Bernardo, book a private, in-person tour of the community by calling Pam Rundle at (858) 451-1100. General information about Silvergate Rancho Bernardo can be found at SilvergateRR.com/RB. Silvergate is located at 16061 Avenida Venusto, San Diego, CA 92128.
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