Richard Lavant Dye

He was born in Tillamook Oregon to Jesse Frank and Hallie Elizabeth (Harris) Dye, April 27,1931.

He met the love of his life Joan Alison Shaffer at Gregory Heights Elementary school where they both worked as teachers. They married November 25,1958.

Richard (Known by everyone in Arizona; his Winter home.) or Dick (As everyone ‘up north’ called him) lived a very full, busy and art filled life. Always generous, learning, and teaching, all things art!

He graduated from Bellingham High School (Washington). Having participated in band and drama/theater. His interest in photography got him a job at ‘Barr’s Camera Shop’ and he became ‘The man on the street’. Taking pictures and recording interviews, events and happenings for the Bellingham Herald.

After a short stint in college, Richard joined the Air Force (During the Korean War). He was stationed at Murphy Dome Air Force Radar Base in Fairbanks Alaska. With nowhere to go, he spent his off-duty time skiing, it was his favorite pastime.

When he was discharged, Richard used his GI Bill to return to college. Western Washington State college WWU in Bellingham and received his teaching degree. He taught at Gregory Heights Elementary School in Burien Washington and remained there his entire teaching career until retirement. He was made Art Administrator for the Highline School District, in addition to teaching. After both Richard and Joan retired, they purchased a ‘winter home’ in Sun City Grand, Surprise Arizona. Where he immediately immersed himself in the clay, weaving and train clubs. Producing teaching and selling his talents and wares. He explored every technique, all disciplines of art and collected reginal art with Joan.

In between all this Richard and Joan were named ambassadors for the Holland Cruise Lines for the Myriad cruises they went on and enjoyed each other’s company.

Richard survived by his wife of 66 years Joan Alison (Shaffer) Dye, resides in Shelton Washington. Sister Gwenie Lou (Dye) Boyd and husband William Boyd of Lake Forest Park, Washington. Brother Donald Jesse Dye and wife Janet Dye of Bellingham, Washington. Many nieces and nephews, cousins and extended family members.

Preceded in death by his parents Jesse and Hallie Dye, sister Judith Suzanne (Dye) Solvang and Judith’s husband Bruce.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date, in Washington state.

Donations to a charity of your choice.

Dick touched many lives with his kindness, generosity, always sharing his upbeat attitude. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.