Richard Wylie Kerns

Dick grew up and went to school in the Ballard neighborhood, taking a break from his education to work for a year on a farm near Omak in North Central Washington, then returning to receive his diploma at Ballard High School in 1951. A year after graduation he enlisted in the U. S. Navy and served on active duty for 2 years, followed by another 6 in the Reserves after his honorable discharge.

Dick began his career at Westinghouse in South Seattle, the same year he became engaged to Patricia Leiren, who he married in 1956. Dick and Pat had two children, son Dan and daughter Lora, before settling down together in Kenmore starting in 1961. Dick continued at Westinghouse until 1968, opting to work closer to home at Nims Electric in Bothell for 10 years, before starting his own successful appliance repair business.

Dick and Pat enjoyed boating and camping while their kids were growing up, and Dick also enjoyed hunting for many years, as well as photography and golf. Dick and Pat continued to enjoy traveling the world together for many more years.

After a career of more than 40 years, Dick retired in 1997. He passed away on November 24th, 2023, and was preceded in death by his daughter Lora, and by Pat, his beloved wife of 55 years. He is survived by his son Dan and his grandchildren Tom, SusAnna, and Jimmy.