Richard Lee Conner

Richard Conner passed away early in the morning on December 20th at Providence Hospital in Everett after a month-long battle with Leukemia. He told his family that week that he was ready to go to heaven, and he did. He is with his Lord and savior, at peace and without pain.

Richard, known to most as Dick, was born in Kittitas County on September 11, 1938. His family relocated in the Everett area. Dick graduated from Everett High School in 1956. Dick was a long time Everett & Mukilteo resident. He worked for Pete’s Cabinets and after helping to save his boss using CPR, he was inspired to open ‘Life Saver CPR’ where he instructed others on CPR/First Aid for nine years.

Dick was dedicated to God, music, his wife, church and his family. He cared for people using his music and his well-honed cooking skills. His heart was very much about music whether it was Barbershop, Gospel, Country and Western as well as singing, directing ensembles and choruses, and playing guitar for church. He was involved with Barbershop Singing for about 50 years, and will be remembered for being the Lead in the 1978 Evergreen District Champion quartet "The New Rendition." He was very involved at Everett 1st Baptist Church, active in serving meals to the homeless on Friday nights, serving on worship team, at S.A.M., and helping with the Fun in the Sun event on the 4th of July.

Dick’s smile warmed the hearts of many. He had an incredible ability to win others over with his loyal friendship, faith, one-liners and quick wit. Dick leaves behind many fond memories, deep friendships, and originally written songs, most about his love for God or his wife, PJ.

Dick is survived by his brother Ed Conner and sister Charlene Bjork; by his beloved wife of over 20 years, Phyllis (P.J.) Conner, by 3 sons, Mark, Tony, and Curt Conner; two step-sons, Jake and Jeff Huber, and numerous nieces, nephews and grandchildren. Dick’s oldest son, Steve, preceded him in death.

While hospitalized, Dick received over 20 blood transfusions. Dick asked that we donate blood at the Puget Sound Blood Bank or a local blood drive.

A Celebration of his Life will be held 1pm Saturday, December 29, 2012 at the First Baptist Church, 1616 Pacific Avenue, Everett, Washington. Evergreen Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.