Eugene Richard (Dick) Ketz
March 11, 1934 - October 30, 2020
On Friday, October 30, 2020, Eugene Richard (Dick) Ketz, loving and beloved husband and father passed away at the age of 86. He is proceeded in death by Carol, his wife of 63 years and son-in-law Richard Stolmeier. Together, Dick and Carol treasured many wonderful years as parents to Gaile Graham (Robert), Jo Wild (Craig), Debbie Barker (Tim), and Don Ketz (Mary), 10 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren.
Dick was born on March 11, 1934 in Eagle River, Wisconsin to Arthur and Marion Ketz. Moving several times when he was young, his family eventually settled in North Bend, Washington, where Dick attended school and met Carol Ann Cabe, who would later be his wife.
Dick was an avid athlete who was passionate about sports. While attending Mt. Si High School, Dick enjoyed playing quarterback for the Wildcats football team, along with lettering in basketball, baseball and track. Carol was a Mt. Si cheerleader at the time and little did he know, she would become his biggest fan and cheerleader for life.
Dick married Carol on October 3, 1952. In their early marriage, Dick was proud to serve his country in the US Air Force. He was stationed state side and Japan. His last assignment was Willmington, North Carolina where he and Carol welcomed their first daughter Gaile. After his enlistment ended, Dick and Carol returned to the Pacific Northwest, where they eventually settled in Bothell, Washington. They resided in Bothell for 57 years raising their family in a neighborhood filled with lifetime friends. Dick worked as a mechanical contractor for the AMF corporation and various other companies using his knowledge and skills to provide for his family.
In his early years, Dick loved to play golf and dance, sharing these pastimes with Carol and dear friends. Dick found a creative outlet in wood working; building cabinets throughout his home. In his later days, Dick loved trips to the casino to try his luck at the slots. He also enjoyed music - both listening and singing along with Elvis and “Frank.
While his family is deeply saddened by his passing, they are proud to celebrate his life and what he meant to so many. Although Multiple Sclerosis slowed him down for many years, he did not allow it to overtake his attitude. Dick’s contagious smile will live in our hearts forever.