Richard Rogers

Richard Rogers died at his Naselle, Washington residence August 20th, 2009 at the age of 75 after a short battle with brain cancer. He was born in Tacoma, Washington in January of 1934. He was raised in the Tacoma-Puyallup area and attended Puyallup High School where he met his bride of 53 years, Sharron Hanson. Richard worked in the construction business and was a member of the Operating Engineers, Local 612 for 54 years. He also owned his own business, Richard Rogers Trucking. He sponsored and coached girl's baseball for 8 years. He also built and operated the Puyallup drag strip. Richard loved racing and was a force to be reckoned with in his day! He raced Top Fuel & funny cars. He began to race his own funny car in the 70's. Richard gave his Monza a feminine name, "Miss Debra" named after his daughter. He raced the Monza until 1982 with best "ET's in the sixes". Richard also enjoyed fishing and snow-mobiling. He and Shay spent many, happy, fun filled times at their winter home in Cle Elum, eating, playing cards and snow mobiling with their many, many, friends. Richard was a "one of a kind" type of guy. There was never a dull moment when he was around. He made life very interesting! He did things HIS way and had a hell of a good time doing it! The most important thing you should know and remember about Richard is that he loved all children and animals unconditionally. Richard was preceded in death by his father and mother, Ted and Grace and his brother Gary. He leaves behind his beloved wife Shay, daughters Debi and BJ, brother Duane Butler and wife Doris, his beloved granddaughter Katrina (Katie) Shay who was always in his thoughts and heart until the day he died. Richard leaves a host of other family members and friends too numerous to name but you know who you are. In lieu of flowers, please remember Richard by donating to Harbor's Home Health & Hospice, 201 7th St, Hoquiam, Washington 98550 or to the animal shelter in your area. Memorial services are pending and the guestbook is available at www.penttilaschapel.com.