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Richard Byrd Obituary
Richard L. Byrd
The Byrd family moved to Gold Bar, Washington in 1968, where Rich was inducted in to the notorious "Gold Bar Gang." Rich attended school in the Sultan School district. During his years as a Turk his passion was wrestling. He wrestled varsity all four years earning numerous awards, he continued with the sport by coaching for the next 25 years.
Richard grew up in the Skykomish Valley. He embraced the values of small town living, loving his friends, knowing his neighbors and giving back to the community. While attending the Evergreen State Fair in 1977 Richard met his future wife Cindy Moody. They married in October 1981. They completed their family with their son Jordan M Byrd in 1990. Rich has been employed by Snohomish County since 2000.
He made friends everywhere. When you came in to Richard's circle he knew you for life. He remembered your name, he knew your story, and he went out of his way to say hi. He loved his family, his friends and his Harley. He will be truly missed by all who knew him.
Richard is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Cindy; and son, Jordan; along with three sisters, and one brother, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Elaine Purbaugh.
A celebration of Richard's life will be held on Sunday December 2, 2012 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Sultan Middle School Commons; 301 High Ave, Sultan, WA.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Byrd
Sponsored by ERS Trucking.
Dan,Delp
November 24, 2024
Rich,
Bro, I think of you often, it's like it was yesterday, the friendship, and laughter you brought to my life is forever enduring.
With love
Dan0
Dan Delp
November 24, 2022
Richy
Another year think about every day, almost 64, my time to hang with is coming.
It is because of you and Cindy, that continue to play my guitar some almost forty years. You encouraged me not to give up. You and Cindy put up with my early playing for hours for thank I thank you for that. Rich my life changed when left,never been the same. I miss your sense of humor,laugh and frank advice.
Miss you friend, love you man.
Dan0
Sue Smith
November 23, 2021
Another year without you in it. Ugh. You are never far from our thoughts. We talk about you all the time. We share stories and laughs- mostly laughs! The first thing we do when your name is mentioned is smile! You made an impact on those who knew you.....you are so missed.
Dan Delp
November 23, 2021
I simply miss you every day bro.,cigar and some good whiskey today like we used to do .
Dan
Daniel Delp
November 24, 2020
I miss the byrd man everyday. And think of him often My life changed so much with his untimely passing I lost a true Friend. Lov you bro
Dan Delp
Steve and patti Campbell
November 24, 2020
Wow how time passes. We think about you often Richie. We miss your visits and all the laughs we shared. The hotrod sign you made still hangs over our garage door. We smile thinking of you when we pass under it. You will never be forgotten.
Steve and Patti Campbell
Sue Smith
November 23, 2019
Richard cant believe its been 7 years already. Seems like yesterday I saw you at the store. Mindy and I had a toast in your honor last night youre never far from our thoughts and youll be forever in our hearts. You are missed ❤❤❤❤
Daniel Delp
November 23, 2019
Byrd Man
I miss you sooo much, my life changed so much after you passed, you were a best friend. I think about you often bro, I miss our whiskey and cigar time, i miss your sense of humor, Wish you did not have to leave.
I love and miss you bro. Dan Delp
July 30, 2016
Cindy
Sending good thoughts & love. I hope Jordan is doing well & all is good as it can be with you guys.
Penelope
daniel delp
November 22, 2013
Miss you bro
Dan/Katy
Sue Smith
November 21, 2013
Can't believe its been a year already. You are missed dearly. You are continually talked about and you are kept alive by all the great memories you gave us. Thanks for so many memories to keep us going. Miss you my friend.
April 9, 2013
Happy Birthday Rich. We miss you! We think of you and cindy and Jordan often.
Much love, steve and patti campbell
Sue Smith
December 7, 2012
The loss of such a wonderful person is so hard to wrap my head around. He was so funny, caring, and loved his friends and family very much. My heart has a huge hole in it, but, everytime I think of Richard, I will have a smile on my face. He definitely made us all smile!! You will be missed.
Rich and Ellie Smithson
December 7, 2012
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Byrd-Man. He will be greatly missed but fondly remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with Cindy, Jordan and all of his family. We are so sorry for your loss. With heart felt sympathy...
Jolene Wolf
December 6, 2012
Cindy and Jordan, I am very sorry for your loss. Byrd man will be forever young,wild and free. We will miss him very much.
Linda Peterson
December 4, 2012
Cindy, my heart was very heavy with remembering how happy you and Rich and Jordan were as a family. I know it's been a long time since we worked together and talked, but you were such a good friend and always so happy. My heart hurts for you to now to carry this sorrow. My thoughts are with you and Jordan. Linda and David
Teresa and Bob Haden
December 4, 2012
We would like to express our condolenenses and prayers to Cindy and Jordan for their loss. You have lived so far from us, we have not had the opportunity to get to know Rich very well. Reading these comments gives us some insight to the man who married Teresa's cousin. We love you Cindy and Jordan.
December 3, 2012
Prayers and thoughts are with family Cindy and jordan he will be missed! Percy Corina Jefferey Drew
Trevor Stockton
December 3, 2012
Wow, byrd can't believe I writing this about you so soon. Byrd I worked with you for 8yrs and you made every day worth it , with our great conversations of hot rods / motorcycles and sports. Thank you for always treating me as an equal and being a great crew boss ! RIP and see ya on the other side buddy.
December 3, 2012
Richard will be greatly missed. I will always remember him as one of the nicest guys I know. The early demise of such a great person hits doubly hard. My condolences to Cindy and Jordan.
With Blessings, Susie Hollenbeck
December 3, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am so sorry for your loss, taken way too soon!
Kathy Merceri
December 3, 2012
A flood of high school memories; feel fortunate to have shared time with a man who touched so many hearts along life's journey. Our prayers for your loss.
December 2, 2012
Words have escaped us all week. Love & prayers to you & yours.
We are so, so sorry.
Pen & joe
Sandy and Stephanie
December 2, 2012
Although we did not get the opportunity to ride together, you will be riding with us from now on as we talked about Harley D's and the passion we have for it. We will be there for Cindy and J. Miss you my friend.
December 2, 2012
Glad to have known you, having met you through my
daughter Rene'e . It was a good thing for my husband Bill
& I. You will be missed.
Jan & Bill Rossiter
Allen Boury
December 1, 2012
My thoughts and prayers to the entire Byrd family. I will miss running in to Rich at car shows for that quick story and a big laugh. Hope there are Hot Rods and Harleys where you are.
December 1, 2012
Byrd man, love you..Seattle Snohomish saw mill. Thanks for the help. See you on the other side. Paul Hammond. Sultan. Wash.
Misti Spitzer
December 1, 2012
Taken way too soon! Good memories working together with such a great guy. I feel and pray for his family to lose a big part of their life, I hope you fill the void with great memories and hold on tight.
The true wild hog "Byrd Man"
Michael Bowden
December 1, 2012
Rich was my brother from another mother and always enjoyed our rides together. Rich was a kind soul and had a heart the size of an Elephant in always looking out and helping everyone and man could he ever BBQ. I'm sure he is remodeling heaven right now Harley orange and black colors, you will be greatly missed my friend and never forgotten thanks for so many great times.
~ Michael J Bowden
Rich and Michael @ Tina & Tony's Wedding
Michael Bowden
December 1, 2012
December 1, 2012
Cindy and Jordan, we will miss Rich so much, he was a son to both of us and a wonderful husband and father to my daughter and grandson. We will be here for you forever. We are so sadden and broken hearted.
Love ya, Mom and Wayne
Tracy Menzies
December 1, 2012
So sorry for your loss, my thoughts are with you and Jordan.
John Woodbury
December 1, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Rich and I went to state in wrestling 4 years in a row. Many fond memories.
kim mayhew
November 30, 2012
Rich is in the arms of the Lord, may there be peace for his family. I have no doubt he has found another harley in his new home.
Paula and Thomas
November 30, 2012
Shoot, Its so hard to believe Rich is gone. Such a loss, he always smelled good, looked good and was such a genuine man. We will really miss him. Reminds us all to not take for granted the ones we love...Our hearts go out to all who loved him.
Joe and Cheryl Starcevich
November 30, 2012
Cindy, Our thoughts are with you and your son as well as all of the family. I know this is huge loss for everyone. We are in Az so won't be able to go to memorial.
Laurie Eller (Dunlap)
November 30, 2012
Blessing to all who have been touched by Richard. It is a gift to have been able to bring joy into the lives of so many. Special healing prayers to his family, cherish your memories fondly!
Whitey Firestone
November 30, 2012
My heart is broken once again. Richie you left us way to early there is a huge hole in my heart that will never be filled.I Love You my friend.
Sherry Miller
November 30, 2012
On behalf of my children, Ryan and Taylor Torgeson, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. I know the kids loved Byrd alot.
November 30, 2012
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
Pam Miller
November 30, 2012
Cindy, I am so sorry for your loss. Pam
John & Melanie Hull
November 30, 2012
We are thinking of you every day Cindy and Jordan. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Danielle Warner
November 30, 2012
Cindy, Jordan and Family
I am so sorry to hear about Rich's passing. Still in shock. He was such a great guy with his awesome smile and personality. Rich will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you now and always.
Brad Redmond
November 30, 2012
Heaven is a now a fun place to hang out at with Rich entertaining everybody. We'll miss him here. Hope you are doing better Cindy.
Kevin LuBahn
November 29, 2012
Richard, you lived well and touched many with your humor, love and kindness! Rest in peace my friend, we will always honor and cherish your memory!
Juli Goff (Engel)
November 29, 2012
My memories of Rich are from high school. When my family moved to Sultan in the summer of my 9th grade year, the first two people my sister and I met were Rich and Terry Meyer at the Goldbar tennis courts. They made us feel welcome and I will never forget it. It sounds like he never lost this ability to make others feel welcome in reading others memories of Rich. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Lumi Sitaru
November 29, 2012
Rich, great friend to have in your life. I have known Rich for 8 years, he is the kinda guy is hard to find... always there when you need him, always smile, always ready to help, always inviting me and Eddie to dinner. I enjoyed his company all the time, loved the bike rides and the getaways to Coulee City. Rich gave a lot of love and got a lot in return. I will miss his bear hugs and his cologne too..
steve and patti campbell
November 29, 2012
Rich will be missed more than words can say. We will miss his laugh,his hugs and his suprise visits. We were blessed by all three just a few short weeks ago. Cindy, words can't express our sorrow for you and your family. If there is anything we can do to help please call anytime
steve and patti
Dana Van Wyk
November 29, 2012
My thoughts and prayers go out to Rich's family and everyone who had the privilege to be touched by his magic.He will be missed.
Dan and Katy Couleegans
November 29, 2012
The Couleegans family send prayers to Cindy and jordon rich always brought joy fun happiness when he came to visit us here his pictures mean so much more now. He will be missed
Tammi Lafleur
November 29, 2012
Cindy, I knew Richard when he was still in Jr High school, I used to ride my horse all through Goldbar, and I would stop to visit and we would talk on the corner. we moved to Alaska when I had just finished 9th
grade, ( and he 8th I think), but I have remembered him with great fondness all these years, he was always such a good friend to me, and I never heard him say a bad word about anyone. my deepest condolences to you and yours. I will never forget that dark haired, brown eyed sweet smiling boy that I have remembered all of these years. This world has lost a shining light. My name then was Tammi Armstrong
Couleegans Bar & grill
November 29, 2012
The staff of Couleegans bar and grill wish to send a heart felt note that Richard and Cindy always brought joy and happiness to us .Thank you for your support. We will miss Richard at our events we already have pics in the bar and they mean so much more now. What great guy Richard the bird man was. From the staff of Couleegans bar and grill
Si Smith
November 29, 2012
Richard was one of those special people that made you feel good. Might not see you for a year or more, but when you had the good fortune to bump in to him he was so genuinely happy to see you. He will be missed Cindy. thinking of you Virginia.
Alona Robinson (Spitzer)
November 29, 2012
Byrd you will be greatly missed. I will never forget my time at the county working with you. You watched over me like a father. Your sudden passing is hard to swallow and understand. My thoughts are with your family as they process this huge loss! I still have your "Gasoline Tea" recipe and will drink one for you! Love ya buddy!
Eric Andrews
November 29, 2012
What great memories with Rich from our school days. Like many have said Rich had that ability to make anything funny. He was one of the guys you alwayss wanted in your group when going out because you knew you would get those laughs. My thoughts and prayers to you Cindy and all of Rich's family that is feeling this great loss.
November 29, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Stacy & Scott Lingle
Flip Hudon
November 29, 2012
Cindy,
My thoughts and prayers go out to you.
Flip
Lucky
November 29, 2012
Deeply sorry for your loss Cindy & Jordan. Will miss my feel good friend.
Kelly and Renee Moore
November 29, 2012
You are and always will be a vital part of my memories growing up in Gold Bar. You were always full of energy and life of the party. You will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Bill Monger
November 29, 2012
Peace brother. Until we see you again...
Ann and Maddie Baker
November 29, 2012
We were so sad to hear of Rich's passing. He was always so funny, caring and kind. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!
November 29, 2012
Rich was the absolute greatest neighbor and friend ever.. Our girls took to him immediately as you would often look out to see Rich washing his Harley with little Makenna next to him washing her bike. There were a few times the girls came in soaking wet! Their answer..."Rich has his hose out and got us again!!" Our hearts broke last Wednesday night and that piece will never heal... Cindy and Jay we love you both and are here for you always. Heather, Lisa, Sydne, Auri and Makenna
Heather Aliulis
November 29, 2012
Rich was the first person we met when we moved into our new neighborhood this year. What a delight to have next door. Him and Cindy were a Godsend, always happy, always smiling, always busy with their motorcycles. We enjoyed knowing Rich. He will sadly be missed every day. He was usually the first person I saw when I pulled in my driveway, always a wave & a smile. Peace and safe travels, Rich. We'll watch over Cindy & Jordan for you. Heather, Lisa & the girls
Daniel Delp
November 29, 2012
Cindy and jordon when I think of rich I think happy happy. You and richard have been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. Rich was everything in a best friend that you could ask for and much more. Some of the best times in my life have been with that man.Iwill miss him so much. Thank god that I got to spend alot of time with you and him recently and I was able to tell him how much he ment to katy and I. He is with johnny now . katy and I are here for you and jordon thru this time dan
Michael Ramirez
November 29, 2012
Rich will be dearly missed by all who knew him and it comes with the utmost sadness at his passing. I will always have all the great memories of him as no one could make me laugh like Rich and it will always bring a smile to my face when I think of him. From his baby picture that he carried in his wallet to his ability to always make everyone around him laugh and be happy, there will never be anyone like him again. An enormous loss for us all but a huge gain for Heaven, looking forward to seeing Rich in the next life...Long Live Richard Byrd!
Michael Ramirez
November 29, 2012
Rich will be dearly missed by all who knew him and it comes with great sadness at his passing. I will always have great memories of him as no one could make me laugh like Rich and thinking of him will always bring a smile to my face. There will never be anyone like Rich again. Long Live Richard Byrd...
Bob Morton
November 29, 2012
Rich was a nearly daily visitor here at the Sno Co Cathcart Fleet shop, He was someone I looked forward to chatting with. I am sorry we never got to take that ride together on our Harleys. Rich will really be missed around here.
Jamey St Peter
November 29, 2012
So sorry to hear or richards passing. I feel blessed to have known such a great man, husband, father, friend and great person in the sky valley community. Cindy I too lost my beautiful wife of 25 years and I want you to no the lord will see you through this difficult time.. Be sure to surround yourself with family and loved ones and we will never forget richard. God bless to your family.
Shannon Davis
November 29, 2012
Words cannot express how much Rich is going to be missed. I expect to see him around the next corner as I have for years to visit, laugh and share a funny story. I have over 30 years of great memories with Rich and Cindy that I will cherish. Rich will not be forgotten!
Kathleen Huizar
November 29, 2012
Dear family of Richard. Although I only knew Richard through high school, he was a light to all that he embraced. He was genuinely kind hearted, gentle and was always smiling. My sister's and I have you in our hearts as you go through this very difficult time. Kathleen Huizar (Ledoux).
November 29, 2012
As soon as you met Rich, you instantly liked him. He was such a friendly, kind, funny and wonderful guy! What a great loss!We are going to miss him very much. Dana Spuc
Deb & Clare Parker
November 29, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Rich you will be missed so very much. The time I worked with you at cascade was great,to be able to reconnect with you,and talk about old times growing up.
RIP Rich.
Clare & Deb Parker
Jaci York Wilson
November 29, 2012
Cindy, Jordan and family, our hearts ache for this huge loss. Rich was so well loved and left such an amazing legacy of love and kindness behind. Hugs and prayers for all of you. Treasure the great stories and love that will be shared. All our best.
Crystal Ward
November 29, 2012
I too knew Rich as the "Byrd Man!" My heart goes out to his family and friends. He was truly and honorable man. We will miss you!
Sonny and Susan Derifield
November 29, 2012
Dear Cindy, we are remembering you and Jordan in prayer our hearts ache for you.
We are in AZ so will not be at memorial but our thoughts and prayers are with you both.
Teri Jelinek
November 29, 2012
Dearest Cindy and Jay....My heart breaks for both of you...I am so sorry for your loss. I am thankful that our paths have crossed again after all these years....I always enjoyed seeing Rich at the Repp....a great guy with a great smile. He will be missed. Jay...I love you like my own...please let me know if there is anything I can do. Sending hugs and love to both of you. Teri
The Blanscet family
November 29, 2012
Rich will truly be missed payers to his family
Heather Dady
November 29, 2012
May wonderful memories warm the hearts of everyone that loved Rich. I knew him as 'Byrd-man'.... condolences to all his friends at Snohomish Co, who worked on the road crew with him. He will always be a bright light in our lives!
The Blanscet family
November 29, 2012
Rich was a great man and friend forever and always in r hearts thoughts and prayers to his family
Bill and DeAnna Witham
November 29, 2012
Cindy,
We have thought of you and your son so often since I heard the news. Rich was an awesome person and we feel so incredibly blessed to have known him. We will pray for peace during this difficult time for you.
Don & Susie Walker
November 29, 2012
We were very saddened by the news of Rich's passing. He always had a warm smile and took the time to say hi and catch up whenever he came upon a friend. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his wonderful family.
Glenda Matkins-Oveson
November 29, 2012
Forever in our Hearts!
Doug and Payge Fries
November 29, 2012
There are no words to express our sadness at this great loss of such a dear man and friend. We will cherish our memories of our time with Rich and we are so thankful he came into our lives. Prayers to Cindy and Jordan, may God wrap his arms around you both and give you comfort in this difficult time. Love you
Deb Firestone
November 29, 2012
My heart has another piece broken off. Rich was my brother and one of my best friends. I will miss his bear hugs, his pecks on the cheek, how good he always smelled, his teasing, laughing till I cried everytime I was with him. His gift to me was that I knew he loved me and cared.
Cindy and Jordan...Rich was a slice of Heaven and he loved you both to the moon and back. My heart hurts for you and I will be praying your thoughts are filled with amazing memories and your heart feels how much Rich loved you. Blessings! ?
Rick Meyer
November 29, 2012
He was a great person and I know he is saddly missed.
November 29, 2012
Cindy and J....we are so sorry for the loss of Rich. You two are in our hearts and prayers. If there is anything we can do please let us know....The Reneaus
Rena Norrie
November 29, 2012
Richard will be missed, My thoughts our with his family and all his friends.
Rena
Barbara Reeves-Hughes
November 29, 2012
He was a friend that will be sorely missed. Just knowing him made my life better.
Cliff & Sue Graafstra
November 29, 2012
When we think of Rich, laughter,smiles,jokes, facial expressions, a sore knee(ha)and most of all,his love.He always wore the perfect cologne,loved to hug like he never wanted to let go! A void has been left in our lives but those memories are forever!
Thomas MacArthur
November 29, 2012
We have lost a great friend ..Rich you will be missed.
Steve Miller
November 29, 2012
My prayers go out to Rich's family. He will be missed.
Sue Gray-Holen
November 29, 2012
Cindy & Jordan, I have been thinking of you both and I wish you peace during this difficult time. I also loved Richard and will miss him terribly.
Joelle Blanscet
November 29, 2012
Rich a great loving and careing man will be forever in r hearts and will be truely missed.
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