Richard Wyndham Earl

Richard “Dick” Wyndham Earl passed away peacefully on October 27, 2025, in Kirkland, Washington, at the age of 82. A pool enthusiast, engaged citizen, and computer programmer, Dick leaves behind a legacy defined by his loyalty, moral compass, sense of humor, and love for his family.

Born on April 14, 1943, Dick was the son of E. Philip Earl and Eleanor (Spencer) Earl. He grew up in Lakewood, Ohio, where he cultivated his intellectual curiosity and a lifelong love of science. Throughout his life, he loved telling stories about his childhood exploits, including fun times with friends, toy mishaps (especially the alleged destruction of his trains by older sister Shirley), and exploring nature through observing insects and caring for his tropical fish.

Dick moved away from Ohio to pursue his education, earning a bachelor’s degree in Physics from Columbia College at Columbia University in the City of New York, followed by a master’s degree in Physics from the University of Washington. He spent many years of his career working at Boeing, during which time he also earned an MBA from Seattle University. He later developed his own educational and productivity software applications, and continued working as a computer programmer until his retirement in 2005. Throughout his career, he exemplified responsibility and excellence in his work and generosity to his colleagues.

While working at Boeing, Dick met his wife, Min-Chih (Lu) Earl, and they were married on July 28, 1982. Together, they raised their two daughters in Redmond, Washington. Dick was a steady and devoted father who read to his daughters every night in their early years, bringing humor and life to Twain, Tarkington, and more; and later eagerly helped with book recommendations, math problems, and science homework—especially physics. He was equally present in their passions outside of school, never missing a piano recital or soccer game. The time he spent with them shaped their sense of humor and fostered their lasting love of reading, learning, and of course, the Seattle Seahawks.

He is survived by his wife, Min-Chih; his children, Erin and Eileen Earl; his grandchildren, Claire and Malcolm Peaty; and his sister, Shirley (Earl) Sommerschield. Dick is preceded in death by his parents, Philip and Eleanor, and his sister, Beverly Earl.

A celebration of Dick's life will be held at noon on Sunday, November 16, at Acacia Memorial Park and Funeral Home, where he has been laid to rest. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Dick's memory in support of the University of Washington Scholarship Fund: https://www.washington.edu/giving/make-a-gift/

Checks made payable to the “UW Foundation” can be mailed to:

UW Advancement, Attn: Gift Services

Box 359505

Seattle, WA 98195

Please indicate that the gift is in memory of Richard Earl by writing a memo on your check or marking the “in memory of” box when making a gift online.