Richard Jay Rosenberg

Richard J. Rosenberg passed away March 5, 2017. He was born March 30, 1931 in Ellensburg, WA to William & Elizabeth (Richards) Rosenberg. He grew up on the family farm with brothers: Bill, Chuck, Don, Jack & sister; Violet. He attended Kittitas Schools & was in the graduating Class of 1949. In February of 1954 he was introduced to his future wife, Ruby, through a cousin who was stationed with Rick in the Army while in Kansas. Upon completion of his Army service, Rick headed back to Kansas where he & Ruby were married August 1, 1954. After the wedding Rick returned to Ellensburg with his new bride.

Rick will be remembered as a true horseman. His quiet, patient manner was truly a gift & inspiration. Rick’s love of horses covered all breeds & disciplines. While at home on the family farm, they used horses to do all the farming. He showed horses for over 60 years, everything from halter, driving, English to Western all while riding Saddlebreds, Tennessee Walkers, AQHA- all breeds & his driving ponies. He loved to cow cut as well. He was even known to have dressed up for the ladies side saddle class.

He & wife, Ruby were 4-H leaders of the Stirrups & Irons Club for well over 30 years. Along with all the horses he trained, he also loved to be a horse show judge- he loved to help kids with their horses & in general helped horses with people problems. The talent he possessed with horses was amazing, his passion ran deep, the connection with the mind of the horse is difficult to explain, if you knew him-you were amazed.

He was also a musician; he played the piano, organ, violin & accordion. Back in the good ole’ days, he played at Grange Hall, and was known to be quite the dancer too. After 30 years, Rick retired from Kittitas County Public Works department in 1984. He then could devote all his time to training & riding.

Rick was such a kind soul, soft spoken, gracious-never a harsh word spoken. He was a patient, loving husband, father, brother & granddad. His quiet presence will be greatly missed. This loyal devotion was obvious when he cared for his mother & Ruby. In the end, he was at peace, and was given the same unwavering care by his son, Tony. He was content & with those he loved-he truly blessed us. Thank you sweet Rick!

Rick is survived by son; Tony (Jody) Rosenberg, grandchildren; Tara (Adam) Bredfield, Tyrel, Tyler & Dusty. Brother in-Law David Johanson of Kansas, many nieces & nephews. He is preceded in death by his mother, father, sister; Violet, brothers- Chuck Bill, Don, Jack, son; Fred, & wife Ruby. The family will hold a private service at a later date. The family would like to express thanks to all the Home Health & Hospice staff for all their wonderful care.

Arrangements under the direction of Steward & Williams Tribute Center, Ellensburg, WA.