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RICHARD MCCANN Obituary

Richard John McCann A Patriot and True American Richard J. McCann unexpectedly died on Friday the 13th of August, 2010. Richard was born on December 16, 1957 in Kaiserslautern, Germany to Joseph & Evelyn McCann. They returned to settle in Spanaway, Washington in 1959, where he graduated from Bethel High School in 1976. Richard is survived by his wife Debbie; daughters Shelby McCann; Ashley & Josh Strauss; and his mother Evelyn. He was affectionately known as "Papa" to granddaughters Hailey and Rieley. Also surviving are his brother Michael (Jann), his sister Marguerite (Mike), and nephew Christopher. In addition Richard is survived by stepson Chesley III (Webber) and family. Richard is survived by many close friends who are like family, too numerous to count (you know who you are.) Richard was preceded in death by his father Joseph. Richard was a consummate second generation gunsmith and machinist, widely respected in his field. He was well known throughout the world for his expertise, knowledge, skill and abilities. Richard was an innovative rifle and knife designer. His MIRS rails system is widely used by American war fighters as well as assorted government agencies, NATO forces and law enforcement agencies throughout the free world. Richard was a life member of the NRA and Washington Arms Collectors (WAC). At Richard's request there will not be a funeral service. A celebration of his life will be Sunday, August 22 at 11:00. It is being held at 320 - 127th St. East, Tacoma. Pot luck of your choice. Formal/business attire not allowed, casual attire by Richards' request (wear what Richard would wear,) We will all miss his unique sense of humor; style; devotion and dedication. RICHARD HAS LEFT THE RANGE!

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by News Tribune (Tacoma) on Aug. 18, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for RICHARD MCCANN

Not sure what to say?





Deb

August 12, 2023

It's been a long road without my love, I'll tell you all about it when I see you again

Wayne Holt

August 12, 2022

Met him through Chuck Karwan. Great guy. The Puffin is one of the best knives that I have ever owned ! His M1 Garand designs were pure genius . Miss him and Chuck.

January 14, 2011

I just found out and I have a great sense of loss. What a nice man. I will treasure my "Alaska Body Bag" Tshirt and "Puffin" all the more.
Sincerly,
Wayne Holt

Ida Rohr Wilson

October 27, 2010

To Richard's family: The "mold" was broken when Richard was born. I have known Richard's parents since the late 1960's. What wonderful people.I thought no one could sit behind the counter in the shop. Then I got to know Richard as an adult. Then his daughter & granddaughter (one of his joys in life). I just heard of Richard's passing today and I am so shocked and heart-broken for the loss of a great,wonderful man,confidant,and friend. Richard, I will miss you.

Shelby McCann

October 22, 2010

Daddy, I love you and I miss you so much. You were my father, teacher and my best friend. I would do anything just to see and hear your voice again. I will always miss you. I am the person I am today because of you and I will always love you for that. I will see you on the other side.

Mike Cash

September 17, 2010

Well Rich, Damn man I miss ya. Obviously not as much as your grieving family but... Well you were a mentor and a friend, a big brother.

bob patterson

August 28, 2010

richard was a good freind he will be missed

James Jones

August 23, 2010

Richie, I can only wonder, WHY??? There will be no answer(s) that will suffice, or ease the pain, but we will all go on. It just wont be the same, without you. I miss you, my "brother from another mother". Rest easy brother, we've got this "next watch" covered from here. Love you and I'll see you again, soon. Jimmy

August 23, 2010

Thank you Rich for keeping my duty rifles and handguns in perfect working order and improving their preformance. I first met Richard back in 1986 as a solider stationed with the 9th Infantry division. I also shot on the Division Rifle Team. Rich and his Father were the go to guys for our rifle team needs and advise. I had hours of fun and entertainment hanging out in his shop back in the 80's.

Sincerely
Officer Russell Holt
Bremerton Police Department

Kathy Bell

August 23, 2010

Debbie, Ashley, Shelby and Chesley. I love you all like family, as I did Richard. I am fortunate enough to know that he felt the same about us. Looking forward to seeing you all again soon.

Erienne Pool

August 21, 2010

I cannot say goodbye to Richard for the memories we have will last a life time and never know a goodbye. I will always keep you in my heart.

Darcy Hymes

August 21, 2010

I too hadn't seen Richard in years, but have such vivid memories of him in junior high & high school. We walked together at high school graduation. I remember an upfront, honest guy with a great sense of humor & that quirky smile he got when something was funny! Richard, you will be missed. Darcy (Furlough) Hymes

Anne Reitzug

August 20, 2010

Although I haven't seen Richard in years, we went to school together from Kindergarten through graduation. My family is familiar with sudden loss, and I know that you must be suffering terribly. I am praying that the Lord will bring you 'the peace that surpasses all understanding', and that you will be comforted by the memories you hold dear. Sincerely, Anne (Tibbitts) Reitzug

Reggie & Dave Haight

August 19, 2010

Richard, when the angels came for you that Friday morn, they had no idea what they were getting. They'll soon find out and our skies will rumble. Ha! We will truly miss you for you will forever be in our hearts.

Roy D. & Nancy Johnson

August 19, 2010

We were surprised to learn of Richard's passing. My husband has been a client of his, and knows what good work Richard did.

Our condolences to his family.

Ludwig Heimrath

August 19, 2010

Richard was a good man, friend, and colleague who will be dearly missed. He was a blessing and an inspiration. No day goes by without me thinking of him. My heartfelt best wishes to his family.

Lew Merrick

August 19, 2010

Richard contacted me many years ago for some mechanical design assistance. He was a client who became a good friend. If you couldn't have a good (and fun) argument with Rich, you weren't trying! Talk to figure it out -- and then DO! That was the rule, not the exception.

Deb

August 19, 2010

Richard my lover, my best friend, my husband - there are no words for the loss I feel. Our hopes and dreams our plans for the future are on hold till we meet again. Life will go on and the world hasn't seen the end of the McCann legacy. I'm gonna make you proud of the work you started. See you in my dreams my love. Forever your loving wife

Mark Newton

August 18, 2010

I met Richard nearly 20 years ago because I was the UPS driver at the shop. It didn't take long to become a friends. I would stop by the shop after hours with a 6 pack of beer and we would solve world problems. Lord knows Richard made you think!! I'll miss his unique outlook on life and that little smirk,smile,chuckle he would get when he said something clever or had you thinking!! I'll miss you my friend!!

Kurt Perry

August 18, 2010

Richard Was one of my best friends. I met him while stationed at McChord in 92. though I moved on to other assignments, I stayed in touch and so did he.I will miss his unique sense of humor and matter of fact, no nonsense way of dealing with lifes challenges.

The McCann Puffin Magnum

Glenn Bellamy

August 18, 2010

Glenn Bellamy

August 18, 2010

I was introduced to Richard as a client, became a friend, and was treated like a brother. Words cannot describe my respect for him (for so many reasons), nor how much I will miss him.

Dr. Jim Brass

August 18, 2010

Rich was a strong man in heart and deed. faithful to his friends and country. Rich was the kind of man that you would want beside you in any battle. Thank you Rich for your support and kindness to my Scout Troop and for your wisdom.

Victor Di Cosola

August 18, 2010

Richard will be well missed! His dedication to our Military and LE community was widely known and so was his spirited dedication in making the best rifles and mounts for folks in harms way. Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family.

Robin Dildine-Gwin

August 18, 2010

I have been so blessed to know this family and experience life with them. Richard was also a proud member of our Relay for Life team. My best memory is him tying a sign to his tractor in front of his shop for a car wash. He waved the bucket up and down with the sign attached. He made me laugh and his anctics will be missed.

Charles Wright

August 18, 2010

Well said. I will miss my friend.

Marsha Murphy

August 18, 2010

My sincerest condolences to his family and friends. Richard created many memories for those who knew and loved him. Those memories are his legacy and he will continue to live on in your hearts.

Jason Pool

August 18, 2010

Richard was my best friend, I miss him. I wish his family Peace and Strength to overcome the loss this has created. Richard's influence on myself and others pushed us to be at our best. "you either loved Richard or you didn't", I did. Good bye my friend.

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