Charles Richard Webb, age 86, peacefully passed away Sunday, December 18, 2011 at United General Hospital in Sedro-Woolley, WA. Charles, or Dick as his family called him, was born in Mt. Vernon, WA to Charles and Floetta (Schmitt) Webb. He lived his early years in LaConner and Sedro-Woolley before his family settled in Granite Falls, WA. He was drafted into the Army and WWII during his senior year of high school and, by the time his class graduated, he was already serving in Germany as an intelligence scout. He was awarded a Bronze Star. Upon his return from service, he attended Western Washington State College graduating with an educational degree in Industrial Arts. His first teaching position was in Easton, WA later returning to Sedro-Woolley where he taught high school woodshop before starting an electronics and drafting program. In 1969, he earned his Masters from Washington State University. Being the only Coug in the immediate family, he enjoyed razzing his Husky grandsons whenever he could. He completed his esteemed 40 year high school teaching career at the age of 65, but maintained a life-long interest in drafting and architectural drawing. He often sketched “dream” houses during his leisure time.

Dick inherited a love of gardening from his father. He enjoyed creating and maintaining a beautiful yard which became a sanctuary for the many wild birds and squirrels that often visited. He was especially proud of his sunken yard and use of ponds that created the effects he wanted. He enjoyed hunting and later fishing with his family and numerous buddies who shared his love of walking the fields of Eastern Washington or floating on one of his favorite lakes. One of his most satisfying achievements was building a fiberglass boat which he used for forty years. Just last month up at Lake Shannon, he gave his sons a final lesson in kokanee fishing. Dick was also an excellent cook, owning a library of cookbooks which he often read for pure enjoyment. He delighted in watching the cooking channels for hours on end. Each Sunday, family dinner was a delight because of his creations.

Dick’s family gave him great happiness. He married Kathryn Reinette Murray in August of 1948 in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and together they raised and blessed their family for 62 years. His beloved wife and his cherished daughter, Reinell, preceded him in death. He is survived by his sister, Charlene of Granite Falls, WA; sons Dana (Debbie) Webb of Sedro-Woolley and Murray (Vicky) Webb of Bremerton, WA; and Sister-in-law, Elaine Brown of Sedro-Woolley and her family. His favorites were his grandchildren, Chelsie (Quinn) Webb Deskins of Bremerton; Joshua Webb and Jeremy Webb of Seattle, WA; Chad (Gratianne) Martin of Mt.Vernon, and Lainie Martin of Seattle. His great-granddaughter, Juliette Martin, energized him with her love and laughter when he needed it the most.

Seven years ago, Dick courageously overcame cancer. In spite of his latest health challenges he always maintained a great attitude and trust in his caregivers. His favorite response when asked was “I’m feeling great!” It’s with the utmost sincerity that his “second family” at the United Cancer Care Center will always have his family’s heartfelt gratitude and love. We thank them for the caring and respect given to our father. Special thanks to Dr. Houshang Shetabi, who always treated him with compassion and dignity and to his “Angels” who nursed him through the highs and lows by making him feel so special.

A memorial service will be held at Lemley Chapel in Sedro-Woolley on Saturday, January 7 at 1:00 with a fellowship following at the Sedro-Woolley Eagles. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local food bank or the North Puget Cancer Center at United General Hospital in Sedro-Woolley. Please share your memories and sign the on-line guest register at www.lemleychapel.com.