He was born on December 19, 1946 in Bremerton, Washington to his parents Elias Alexander Gage and Clara Helen Bertman. He was raised in Portland, Oregon and graduated from Franklin High School in 1965. While in school, he earned a varsity letter in baseball for three years. After school, Dick served in the military and became a staff sergeant. He was also an excellent marksman.
While he was working at the Multnomah Kennel Club in 1993, he met his wife, Donna (whom he always called “Dear”). He ran the kennel and she did turn outs for him; one thing led to another, and the two were soon married. Dick was passionate about his work there, and his dedication won him the Trainer of the Year award at the dog track. He was also President of the Oregon Greyhound Breeders Association (OGBA).
Outside of his work with the kennel, Dick also worked at Tandy Leather for some time, and he owned a card shop in Sandy, Oregon. He was an avid collector of cards, as well as stamps, coins, and Beanie Babies. In addition to an interest in building his collections, he loved to fish, camp, and visit the beach.
Dick was an outgoing, quick-witted jokester, and pursued his many interests with enthusiasm. He will forever be remembered for his compassionate nature; he was a truly loving husband, father, and “papa.”
He is survived by his wife Donna; children Mackenzie, Kevin, Brian, Josh, Tia Michelle; and grandchildren Jacob, Jackson, Samantha, Madison, Cailey, and Jasmine.
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