Richard was born in Vancouver, Washington on June 14, 1935. He grew up in the St. John’s area of Portland and eventually attended Portland State, University of Oregon, and Willamette Law School where he graduated amongst the top-of-his-class. It was here at Willamette that Richard met the love of his life, Sophia. They would have celebrated their 62nd anniversary this year. Richard practiced law locally from 1963-2020. He was very musically inclined and played the saxophone as well as the piano. He loved Jazz and Blues above all else and was looking forward to attending the Waterfront Blues Festival. Richard was a world traveler. He loved exploring new places and meeting new people. His smile was infectious, and his charm and wit were unparalleled. Everyone who knew Richard described him as a great man. This was not an exaggeration but simply a summation. He was and always will be a great man and sorely missed by his family and friends. Richard was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Sophia Sly; children, Annemarie Sly Fardanesh, David Sly, and Matthew Sly; 7 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. The Memorial Service will be held on Monday, July 11th, 2022, starting at 11am at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral at 3131 NE Glisan St. A light luncheon will follow at the church. A private burial service for family and friends will be at 3pm at Skyline Memorial Gardens at 4101 NW Skyline Blvd. In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to be made in Richard’s name to Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral.
