Richard J. Wippel

Richard James Wippel, 58, of Disautel, entered into eternal rest on the evening of Friday, December 19, 2014, in Grand Coulee, Wash. He was born in Ellensburg, Wash., to Robert Wippel and Mary Miller-Wippel on March 12, 1956. Richard Wippel attended school in Omak, and Pateros in his youth then graduated from Lake Roosevelt High school in 1974. As a young boy Richard was raised in the Methow with his family. He and his cousins would spend all their time exploring the Methow valley. He was active in the Boy Scouts, and earned the Carnegie Award for heroism for saving the life of his best friend's sister.

During his teenage years Richard lived with Pat and Bev Morin, and remained close with them throughout his life. Richard was well known for his basketball skills. After high school Richard played for the National Indian basketball team, traveling the country playing the game he loved. In 1978 he married Regina Moulton, together they had three children Christopher Wippel, Candice Wippel, and Chalice Arden all of Wilbur.

Richard held many jobs including Helitack firefighter, logger, heavy equipment operator, diesel mechanic. Most recently he worked for Gebbers Orchards in Brewster, Wash. In his spare time dad enjoyed salmon fishing, playing on his newly acquired equipment and driving one of his many toys. Richard loved spending time with his family and friends, Dad took care of his mother until her passing in 2013. He was an active member in the surrounding communities. He was part of the Owners and Jockeys Association with the World Famous Suicide Race. Dad would drive us all crazy by starting the race in the middle of the hill and running for his life to avoid getting trampled by the racers and their horses. This past summer he was committed to helping in the cleanup of the Carlton Complex fire. These last few years he enjoyed many adventures like his trip to the Redwood Forest and Hawaii with his companion Robin. He was looking forward to his upcoming trip to Italy. Dad was always willing to lend a hand and help those who were in need. He had a large and loving heart. Dad had a unique sense of humor and he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Richard is survived by his children Yancy Epperson (Darcy), Christopher Wippel (Hayley), Candice Wippel, and Chalice Arden (Gregg), his brothers Ernie Williams (Roberta), Randy Lewis, companion Robin Somday, and Mom Bev Morin. Many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his Father Robert Wippel, Mother Mary Miller-Marchand, Brother Jerry Wippel, and Sister Mary Lou Wippel, Dad Pat Morin Sr., and his Uncle Lewis Miller Sr.

Richards' family would like to thank the EMT crew and Coulee Medical Center staff for trying to save his life. Precht-Harrison-Nearents Chapel in Omak, WA. All the cooks, his pallbearers, and everyone who helped our dad on to his next journey.