Richard “Rich” Norris Cheadle, age 66, a longtime resident of Bow, passed away August 15, 2020. He was born August 7, 1954 in Eureka, California to Raymond and Dorothy (Norris) Cheadle, whom he adored.
Rich loved putting the pedal to the metal and drumming on the steering wheel to loud music, cooking for his family while talking like the Muppets’ Swedish Chef, and watching live music with his wife. Otherwise, he enjoyed fishing or rooting for the Seahawks. Late in life, his attachment to his Papillon grew unbounded, but his family was so comfortable with his affection that they were hardly jealous at all. He worked at the refineries in Anacortes for an infinity, before retiring in 2008. He worked on numerous projects and his family still hears from old friends that his name is printed conspicuously in a number of manuals. He was proud of that work and a fierce advocate for worker’s rights and safety. His family preferred him at home with them, but they needed food and shelter so he provided it along with boundless love and support.
After a long battle with kidney disease and leukemia, he passed on to the next stage of his journey. His family is now listening to his favorite music and filling the hole in their hearts with the light of the many happy memories he left them with.
Rich is survived by his wife, Suzanne; son, Jacob; daughter, Lisa. He had a wonderful extended family and his sisters, Patty White, Cathy Williams, and brother, Randy Cheadle, and their families, all miss him.
A Private Family Service will be held. Share your memories of Rich and sign the online guest register.
As a former refinery worker, I worked alongside Rich for many years. A good friend, and kind soul, I know he will be missed greatly. Our condolences to Suzanne and family. May you be comforted by the love and memories you all share.
My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
I am so sorry to hear of your families loss. Rich was a great friend. I am sad to have lost contact. There are many memories I have of our high school years. He will always have a place in my heart.
Richie was a great guy to conversate with and we truly loved his sense of humor. I knew Richie since high school architecture class over 45 years ago and that’s because he married my sister Suzanne. They were a wonderful family oriented couple, raising children, working hard at jobs, traveling, wining dining and dancing! We loved chatting and laughing with Richie & Suzanne I’m so happy they had so many wonderful years together! We all miss him so so much. Both sides of the family were so fond of Richie and have missed him lately as he was not up to family gatherings.
We have all been blessed to have had him in our lives.
Peace and Love Dolores & Tom Holtcamp
I was so saddened to read of Richie’s passing. Both Richie, Suzanne and I along with Kathy were graduates of BEHS class of ’72. Stan and I also enjoyed visiting with Richie and Suzanne while belonging to the MG club. Our sincerest condolences to Suzanne and all of the Cheadles and extended families.
Stan and Mari Nelson
Las Vegas
Mr. Cheadle was a beautiful soul; so loving and caring to his fur babies (both Maddie and Chani). I have known Mr. Cheadle for the better part of 15 years as I work for the veterinary hospital he used for his critters’ care. I watched his puppies grow into adults and shared tears when his beloved Maddie passed over the rainbow bridge. I loved catching up with him, he was always so cheerful talking about his trips with the family and his new experiences with Maddie. He was and will always be one of my favorite clients of the hospital. My heart is broken for your family and I know there are no words that can heal your pain. Please know, at the very least, that Mr. Cheadle left a trail of sunshine in every room he walked. Take care.
My deepest condolences to you Suzanne and family and to Patty and family.
Suzanne,
I am saddened to read of Rich’s passing. It has not been that long ago that I saw the two of you and got the chance to catch up on life. Rich was a great person and will be missed by those that knew him. My best to you and your family as you grieve the love of a great man.
Cheryl Brue