Ricky Lee "Rick" Palin

BENTON CITY, WA ~ We lost our daddy, old man and grandpa in the early morning hours of January 30, 2023. Rick was born April 24, 1947 to Elmer and Imogene Palin. He was the youngest and BIGGEST of their five children. From a young age, Rick was a hard worker, taking care of the family when his dad was hurt in a mill accident. Rick went through the 8th grade, but that never held him back. In 1966, Rick volunteered and joined the United States Army and served in Vietnam. He was severely injured and came home. His service was not something he talked about much when we were young, but knew that it was a big part of his life.
Once home from the war, Rick spent time in Ohio working as a truck mechanic, street racing and living life to the fullest. In 1971, Rick was back at it taking care of the family. He brought his mom home from Michigan and helped his dad with whatever he needed. This time Rick was home in Montana for the next 23 years. He worked for Champion International as a heavy equipment mechanic in the log yard.
In 1973, Rick married the mother of his children, Sherri. They were blessed with Marjorie in 1975 and Arthur in 1977. Rick was a dad like no other. He worked to provide for us, he taught us right from wrong, gave guidance, discipline and love when we needed it. We were raised to have a healthy amount of respect and fear for adults. Knowing how to behave, when to speak and when to sit and be quiet.
In 1994, Rick moved to Vancouver, Washington. He went to work for Wubben Brothers Construction, continuing his career as a mechanic. Wubben Brothers had a lot of faith in Rick and asked him to move to eastern Washington in 2002 for their new operation. He accepted the challenge and moved to Benton City, Washington where he finished out his career.
Rick loved to hunt, be outdoors, shoot and collect firearms, and Christmas. Those that have known him throughout his life would know that he was a Boy Scout Leader, a Firearms Officiant and Santa Claus. It was always funny to hear "wow he looks like Santa". Our quick response; he is!
We are thankful for the friends and family that our dad had in Benton City and surrounding areas. Thank you Tex, Jim, Angie and Brandi. He talked about you all often and he had a special place in his heart for each of you.
Rick is survived by his daughter, Marjorie (Jon); son, Arthur (Abbi); grandchildren, Courtney (Buddy), Ike (Rachael), Daniel, Caitlyn, Nic (Kylie), Tanner and great-grandchildren, Aspen, Emma, Owen and Liam. One brother, Gurney and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Imogene; two brothers, Greg and John and one sister, Mae.
Rick requested that he have a graveside service only. He wanted a simple pine, no fuss or frills. He will be laid to rest at 2 p.m. Saturday, February 18, 2023 at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Missoula, Montana. Military rites will be provided by the United States Army, American Legion Post 27 and the Veterans of Foreign War Post 209, both out of Missoula.