Walter Richard Hiett

Known as "Dick" to his long time friends, passed away in Santa Rosa on October 13, 2010 after a short illness, just shy of his 78th birthday. Dick was born in Weaverville, California on October 24, 1932 to his parents Murten and Laura Hiett. We wrote and rewrote your obituary Dad, but it sounded the same as all the others - what you did, where you worked, the usual stuff. We figured that for anyone who knew you those things wouldn't come as any surprise and for anyone who didn't know you, well, who cares? You would have said that. So Dad, here are just a couple of things for others to know: You loved living in Santa Rosa for over thirty of the past forty years. You asked to be returned to a place close to your birth and to honor your wish we're planning to hike with you to the top of Mt. Shasta next spring. Don't worry; we'll do most of the carrying. There are many, many things we could add, but instead of telling everyone what we know about you, we wanted you to know a few things. First, know that your friends and family loved you, and that we won't ever drink wine at the holidays without wondering if you would describe it as "desperate". Know that during these past few years, when you finally traveled to some of the places you dreamed of, we understand why you said this time in your life "couldn't be better". Know that your children believe, when God came to call last week and even the amazing powers of your favorite tools - duct tape and hot glue - could not have fixed your heart, we're sure you bargained for more time until He finally said "I'll throw in the colored sand". You always loved a deal. Last, if there is something on the other side, know that we wish you an endless hand of heavenly bridge, where skilled players know all the rules, no one ever under or overbids and you never get trumped. We will miss you Dad. Dick is survived by his sons Richard and David, his daughter Pamela, his daughter-in-laws Amy and Gigi; his former spouse of forty years Lynda; his dear companion and traveling partner of six years Dolores Juhnke; members of the Peterson family clan; and his two grandchildren Carter and Hailey. DANIELS CHAPEL OF THE ROSES FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES 525-3730