BOMBER MEMORIAL

RONALD CRAIG "RON"/"RONNIE" RICHEY ~ Class of 1972
October 2, 1952 - October 28, 2008



Ronald C. Richey, 56, of Eastsound, WA passed away peacefully on the morning of October 28, 2008 in Seattle.

Ron was born October 2, 1952 to Don and Alice Richey in Richland.

He attended grade schools in Richland and graduated in 1972 from Richland's Columbia High School.

After graduation Ron served in the United States Navy from 1972 through 1975 as a Seaman Apprentice and proudly called himself a Vietnam Veteran. After his military service he lived in Las Vegas and worked various jobs in security. Ron took the opportunity to work for the National Park Service. He enjoyed many years working at the Grand Canyon and at Paradise Lodge near Mt. Rainier. At Paradise he became an Assistant Chef that later led to work at Rosario's Resort on Orcas Island in the San Juan's. During this time is when he met Carolen Valenzuela. Ron and Carolen married October 12, 1990. They recently celebrated their 18th anniversary.

Ronnie enjoyed living in Eastsound but remained closely connected to Richland through family and friends. Although he got razzed whenever he wore his Richland Bombers hat, he remained true to his school and hometown.

Ron was a life member of the VFW and past member of the Post 7952 Honor Guard. He was an avid fan of western movies, Louie L`Amour and just about anything John Wayne. Ron enjoyed the Seattle Mariners but especially looked forward to gathering with friends on "Seahawk Sunday."

He was a wonderful husband, son, brother and uncle. Ron was good-hearted, unselfish and an incredibly good friend. He will be deeply missed but will always be loved and hold a special place in our hearts.

Ron is survived by loving members of his family: wife, Carolen of Eastsound; mother, Alice Richey of Richland; brother, Mike Richey ('73) of Richland; sister, Kim Richey Dykeman ('74) (Randy) of Richland; brother, Marc Richey ('85) (Marie) of Richland; stepson, Edwin of Hawaii; grandson, Shilo of Hawaii; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and many close friends.

Ron was preceded in death by his father, Don Richey ('47); grandmother, Nora Callahan; grandparents, Russell and Lucille Richey; uncle, Alan Richey ('49); and aunt, Marilyn Richey ('53).

The family held a private memorial service on November 8, 2008.

Burial was at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii.



Note: His mother, Alice Grayson Richey, passed away at the age of 83 on November 4, 2011.

Bomber Memorial put together by Maren Smyth ('63/'64) and edited by Shirley COLLINGS Haskins ('66).