From ND they moved to Portland when he was 18 months old in 1937. Growing up Dick attended St, Rose Parochial School thru the eighth grade in the Alameda area of Portland. For high School he transferred to Parkrose for his Junior year and then back to Grant as a senior where he Graduated.
Dick met Sharon in while attending after school activities at Parkrose. They later married in 1955. Sharon remembers him driving up in his cool car. (a Ford of some type! She couldn't remember...)
Before getting married Dick Joined the Navy Reserves and in 1955 went active Duty for 2 years in the Navy Sea bees. He served in Marshall Islands in Okinawa. Returning after discharge he continued in the Navy Seabees reserves, participating in numerous combat training, schooling and project development for 23 years.
In between there, Dick and Sharon had three children Richard Aurther, Susan Kathleen and David James. They were married for 17 years.
He later Married Cindy Thompson in 1977. Cindy remembers that Dick was the first one to offer help to someone and he would stick with the task until it was done. If somebody needed help in learning to do something, he was a good teacher and he had patience. She doesn’t think there was anything he was afraid of doing and would try anything. The first parade Cindy went to with the Seabees, a guy was riding a Unicycle. Dick said “I bet I can do that!” Sure enough he hopped on the thing and was able to ride it, No problem!
Besides his family he loved the Seabees and the men in any Military service. His Motto was “Can Do” and he did. Job well done Seabee!
Dick and his brother Dave took over their Fathers Cabinet Business in Portland called Deluxe ‘Cabinets” for 35 years before retiring and joining the American Legion Honor Guard, Post 180 in Milwaukie Oregon. “Proudly serving our community and our Veterans”
He enjoyed Fishing, golfing and shooting his guns at the range.
Besides his family he loved the Seabees and the men in any Military service. His Motto was Can Do” and he did.
Job well done Seabee!
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