Richard Evans Travis, of Laurel and Syosset, formerly of Ossining and Peekskill, died on May 18, 2006. He was born on Feb. 19, 1937 in Manhattan, son of Howard A. Travis and Mollie W. Travis (nee Adel Weingast). He graduated from Peekskill High School Class of 1955, NYU Class of 1971 with a BS in mechanical engineering and NY Polytechnic Institute Class of 1975 with an MS in engineering management.

An Air Force sergeant (1957 to 1961), Mr. Travis was an engineer and served at various bases throughout the US. He was a mechanical engineer for 19 years with Grumman Corporation, specializing in material handling. He also worked at Stewart Stamping Company, Gunther Systems, Fairchild Camera, Marvel Manufacturing Company and Bystronic and was a self-employed real estate investor.

Mr. Travis was a former Packmaster of Pack 168, Scoutmaster of Troop 170, Theodore Roosevelt Council, Boy Scouts of America. He was a recipient of Wood Badge beads, Boy Scouts of America, vice president of Syosset's Concern About Its Neighborhood and a founding board member of Syosset Groves Civic Association. He was a scuba instructor from 1994 to 2006.

Loving husband of Althea Travis (nee Bates). Devoted father of Major Theodore Travis, USA. Loving father-in-law of Kristin Travis. A Celebration of Life service was held on May 27 at the Community Church of Syosset, officiated by the Rev. Jean H. Butler. Memorials may be made to Theodore Roosevelt Council, BSA, 544 Broadway, Massapequa, NY 11758.