Richard Buchonis

Richard G. Buchonis June 3, 1936 ~ February 18, 2011 of Eatonville, WA Passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on February 18, 2011. He is survived by his loving wife Lorraine of 25 years, 3 children, Richard D. Buchonis(Sarah), Tammy Walz (James), and Diana Wandler (James) and a sister Judith DeRoo(Gary). He has 3 grandchildren, 6 Great grandchildren, many other family members and a family of friends that he made wherever he went.

Richard was born in Lynn, Mass on June 3, 1936. He joined the Navy when he was 17 in 1953 and was honorably discharged in 1957. While in the Navy he served as a communications officer and was stationed up in Marietta, WA. He made his home here in Washington State ever since.

He worked for the US Post office for 20 years and was the first Federal Way Post Master. After leaving the US Post office he went to work for NW Trek Wildlife Park where he spent 22 years working with animals which was a job that he thoroughly enjoyed. He retired from NW Trek Wildlife Park in June of 1999.

He enjoyed his years of retirement and filled it with long walks with his dog Kodi, traveling, going on camping trips with his wife Lorraine, fishing, writing and photography. Seven years ago he dedicated his life to Jesus and walked everyday with his LORD and Savior. Today he is walking closer still with Jesus in heaven in the land of no more sickness, no more disease, no more sorrow, and no more tears. We will miss him but will be united once again with him in the sweet by and by.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Richard on March 12th at 5:00 PM at The Church at Cedar Springs on the corner of 224th and Orting Kapowsin Highway in the Graham/Thrift area. You can go to www.cscc.tv for directions.

This will be a potluck, so bring your favorite dish and your favorite story. For more information regarding the potluck please call Marty Harrison at (360) 879-5452.