ROY KENNETH VAUGHN (1938-2013) passed away on June 20th at his home in Cerritos surrounded by his family from a sudden heart attack at the age of 74. Born in Fort Worth, Texas, he joined the US Navy where he worked as a diesel engine Petty Officer. Upon his discharge, he began working in the aircraft industry at North American Aviation where he met his wife of 43 years, Sarah. At the conclusion of the Apollo projects and downsizing in aircraft budgets, Roy set out on a new career- motorcycle repair. Armed with his GI Bill, he took classes at nights while opening his first motorcycle shop in the early 1970's. He successfully turned his hobby of motorcycles into a career that spanned four decades. A skilled mechanic, machinist, and tuner he had the rare talent to fix anything; to make it better, run faster, and be more reliable. In his business, as in life, he was hardworking, honest, fair, and always guaranteed his work. Arguably one of the foremost motorcycle mechanics in the area, motorcycle dealers would routinely turn to him to solve their mechanical problems. Above all, Roy enjoyed riding his motorcycles. Weekends would be spent riding the roads of Southern California or running the dirt trails of the local deserts. He even took up flat track racing in his sixties because it looked like fun. He also enjoyed camping in his motorhome, fishing, and spending time with his sons and grandchildren.
Having spent his whole adult life in California he never lost his Texas roots. His sharp wit, storytelling skills, and the ability to turn a phrase endeared him to all who had the good fortune to share a conversation with him. He was always quick to offer help and a firm believer in doing what was right. He was a kind, giving, and loyal man and an outstanding role model for his sons and all who knew him. He is predeceased by his beloved wife Sarah. Beloved father of Roy David (Katherine Loverd), Timothy Colon, and Robert Michael Kline of Arizona; grandfather of Robert Michael Kline Jr. (Chaunte), Timothy Kenneth Vaughn, Danielle Alvarez, Kevin Kline, and Sarah Vaughn; brother of Beverly Gregory of Texas. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and other relatives. He will be missed by all.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 29th, at 11 am at Green Hills Memorial Park Chapel, 27501 S. Western Ave., Rancho Palos Verdes.

Viewing will be held on Friday, June 28th, from 6-9 pm at Fukui Mortuary, 707 E. Temple St., Los Angeles. www.fukuimortuary.com (213) 626-0441