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Richard Berhow Obituary
RICHARD LEWIS BERHOW
February 14, 1928 ˜ September 25, 2022
Richard “Dick” Berhow wrapped up his time on earth last September, after a long, full life. The 10th of 11 children, he grew up in and around Ames, IA. In 1946, after high school, he joined the Army and spent a year overseas in Japan. In 1953 he moved west, and on a blind date in Eugene, OR, he met the love of his life, Louise Hughes. They were married for 62 years until her passing in 2016. With her loving support, Dick completed college to become an industrial arts teacher, moving to Vancouver and beginning his teaching career at Covington Junior High in 1961. He retired in 1986 at Wy-East Junior High. A talented craftsman, Dick was always working on multiple projects, from building his own home to fine needlework. He was endlessly curious, especially about history, nature and genealogy. Those who knew him well probably have something he either created, fixed or built. Dick was very generous with both his time and his talents, and two places you will find his work today are Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church and the Sons of Norway Lodge. Enter either building and you will find some of his carvings, signs, or furniture. He also served in leadership roles with both organizations. Dick is survived by his children, Mark (Renee), Peggy (Dan). Joel, and Andy (Kim); and grandchildren, Kelsie (Dylan), Christian, Kyle, Carson, Jackson and Allison. Dick’s celebration will be held on June 10th at 2 p.m., at Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church, 426 E 4th Plain Blvd. All are welcome.
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Memories and Condolences
for Richard Berhow
4 Entries
Ron Southard
August 21, 2023
Mr. Berhow was my woodshop teacher at Covington Junior High in 1968. I ended up owning my own woodshop many years later and perhaps I was inspired by his class. RIP sir.
Terry Nelson
June 9, 2023
Back in the 1960's-70's, Dick was an industrial arts teacher at the old Covington Junior High. In addition, he carefully accounted for ASB monies (Associated Student Body). In those days students had to raise money to support athletics and activities. We staged candy sales as fund raisers. (Almond Roca was a favorite.) Dick shepherded the money part of these "all-school" activities.
Most importantly he was a great teacher who helped kids connect with wood and metals. English teachers "love the words". Dick "loved the wood".
When he left Covington in the late-1970's he gifted the school a beautiful inlaid wood "Colt"--the school mascot--that he created. It hangs to this day at Covington--in the new building.
He was a guide to me as a new administrator. I'll always remember his fulsome smile.
Ken Mattson
June 9, 2023
When I arrived at Covington Junior High in 1968 for my first teaching position, Dick was there. Friendly and kind. We worked together for many years and even subbed in a pinochle group that he and Louise were a part of. I will remember Dick as a positive guy who contributed to whatever was needed in any way he could. It was a privilege to work with him.
Ken Mattson
MARYKAY MUNSON-SYVERSON
June 6, 2023
Joel I am so sorry you lost your dad. Dad's are the best!!
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