Richard Martin McKenna

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, coach, and co-worker, Rick died in his sleep on August 31, 2011. He was born in Portland, Oregon on October 3, 1944. He was a graduate of Central Catholic High School, the University of Portland, and Western Oregon State College. He also served in the Army National Guard.

Rick was a devoted family man who enjoyed sporting events and supporting his family and friends in all their endeavors. He never missed a game and loved watching his sons and five nephews play their respective sports. His positive attitude towards life and others was infectious and genuine. Intelligence and kindness were hallmarks of his personality.

Rick chose a career in law enforcement, committed to helping others make positive changes in their lives. He began his career as a Salem Police Officer but soon found his passion when community corrections called his name. Rick ultimately retired as the Parole & Probation Division Commander in 2003. Since retirement, his work for others never waned. Rick has been a partner in Criminal Justice Consultants and the non-profit Community Partnership for Change. He served on several non-profit boards and was currently serving on Drug Court and the Board of Bridgeway Recovery. His colleagues have described Rick as a hero who has touched many lives, with many (if not most) never knowing that it was Rick who created an opportunity for them. Although his passing is a significant loss, we are a safer and stronger community because of Rick's good deeds and vision.

Rick was pre-deceased by his parents, Arthur and Cathryn Ollila and brother John Ollila. He is survived by Linda, his loving wife of 45 years, beloved sons Larry (Holly) and Matthew (Domenica) and the light of his life, granddaughter Elizabeth. He is also survived by his sisters Margaret Johnson (Dale) and Ann Coleman (Larry), brothers-in-law Henri Angle (Nan) and John Boaz (Paula), sister-in-law Marietta Rodriguez (Ronnie), nieces Oliva Wall (Barb), Jessa Crocker, and Melissa Shaw (Nathan), nephews Kye, Sam, and Max Johnson, Ryan and Aaron Coleman, and great nephews Conner Wall and Henri Shaw.

Rick's family and friends know and will cherish his great love and respect for them. The price of great love is the depth of sorrow in parting. In Linda's words: "You are in my heart, in my soul, in every breath I take. You are my forever love." Similar thoughts are shared by many.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Bridgeway Recovery, University of Portland, or another charity.

Celebration of life is on Wednesday, September 7 at 11:00 a.m. at Queen of Peace Church, 4227 Lone Oak Road SE with reception following.