Richard "Rich" John Gaarde

April 4, 1924 – February 7, 2016

Richard passed away at his home on February 7th. He was 91. Born April 4, 1924 and raised in Tigard, Oregon, Rich graduated from Benson Polytech in 1942. He was a WWII veteran having served in the South Pacific in the US Navy. He married Dorothy A. Huntsinger on October 28, 1950, who preceded him in death in 2009.

Rich worked as a plant engineer for Del Monte Meat Co. until 1973 and Key Mechanical Co. until his retirement in 1991. He was a Past Master of the Sherwood Masonic lodge and a lifetime member of the Milwaukie Elks. An avid sportsman, Rich hunted and fished throughout the Northwest. Rich enjoyed the coast and loved going to their home at the beach. In his later years, he enjoyed watching the birds and squirrels in his yard, feeding the ducks, but most of all, he loved his family.

He is survived by his children, Rick, Linda and Karin and his two grandchildren, Scott and Alexandra.

No services will be held per his request.

Private interment will take place at Crescent Grove Cemetery.

Remembrances may be made to the Wounded Warriors Foundation and/or The Shriners Children’s Hospital in Portland, Oregon.