Richard Nels “Dick” Hodgin, 79, a longtime resident of Burlington, passed away on Tuesday, September 25, 2012 at United General Hospital in Sedro-Woolley.
Dick was born on July 22, 1933 in Burlington, WA, the son of Nels & Beatrice (Studdard) Hodgin. The family made their home in Hamilton where Dick was raised and attended grade school and he graduated from Sedro-Woolley High School with the class of 1953. In November of 1953 he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving his country in Germany until his discharge in November 1955.
On June 29, 1956 he was united in marriage to Prudence “Prudy” Ponton in Sedro-Woolley and they made their home in Burlington.
Dick worked for a time in the timber industry with his father; he worked as a bartender at the T & D Tavern in Mount Vernon, which was owned by his parents, until 1970. He then took a job working as an equipment operator for Skagit County. He retired in 1995 after 25 years of service.
Dick, along with his son, Rocky gave back to his community. Together they volunteered at Lucille Umbarger Elementary School where they coached 5th & 6th grade basketball from 1972 to 1989. He was a member of the George Baldridge Post 43, American Legion in Sedro-Woolley and a longtime active member of the Burlington Eagles Club, where he loved to play cards and meet with his friends.
Dick is survived by his sons, Rocky Hodgin of Marysville, Ronny Hodgin and wife Sherry of Skagit County and Randy Hodgin and wife Nancy of Port Angeles. Six grandchildren, Bridget Perez (Chris), Heather Haberly, Tyler Hodgin (Krissy) and Haley, Allison and Cassidy Hodgin. 17 great-grandchildren; 2 nephews and several great-nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; a son, Robby Hodgin and brother and sister-in-law, Al & LaVonne Hodgin. The family suggests memorials be made to the Dick Hodgin Memorial Scholarship c/o the Burlington Eagles.
A Graveside Inurnment Service will be held on Saturday, September 29, 2012 at 1:00 P.M. at the Sedro-Woolley Union Cemetery with Mr. Jeff Hodgin officiating. A potluck fellowship will follow at the Burlington Eagles.
Wow, how time flies! Ron and Rock talk to people about you almost every day… I think of all the times you made me laugh by your funny little sayings, “That will cost you, or calling a grandchild by a different name. We miss and love you lots…
To Rock, Ron & Randy,
You had one of the best of the best. Treasure the good times.
I’m thankful for Dick and for you!
Jeff
I am so sorry for your loss. May your memory’s be some comfort.
To the Hodgin Family. So sorry to hear the news of the loss of your Father.
We always thought it was so good of him and you, Rocky, to take your time to coach the young boys at LU.
Our son Rodney, was one of those coached and who benefited from the time and attention you gave him.
And I’m sure at the time we never showed our appreciation. We are so lucky to have people like your Dad and all the others that volunteer their time. Thank you.
Thinking of you, Bill and Pat
Sorry for your loss