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Richard Rick Sullivan

1938 - 2017

BORN

1938

DIED

2017

About

University of Nebraska Kearney University of Northern Colorado Wayne State College

FUNERAL HOME

MARLATT FUNERAL HOME

713 CENTRAL AVE N

KENT, Washington

Richard Sullivan Memoriam

In Loving Memory of Richard Rick Sullivan who passed away on October 25, 2017.

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

Published by The Seattle Times on Oct. 25, 2018.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Sullivan

12 Entries

Allen Coward

January 31, 2024

Sincere condolences to Mr. Sullivan's family on their loss. I was in Mr. Sullivan's first sixth grade class at Riverton Heights (1969-1970). He was a fantastic teacher and left a lasting impression with many good lessons. I remember one time he had given the class a task of reading a book and then making a food book report to eat with the class. I had read a book about football and decided a wanted a make a cake decorated in the shape of a football field. My older sister was taking a baking class and she baked the cake and decorated it for me. I should have helped her, but I was too busy playing football with my friends. I clearly remember making that decision. All I did was put the plastic football players on cake. She did all of the work on it. I brought the cake to school and did my presentation. My classmates were impressed by the cake. Mr. Sullivan sat in the back of the class and listened to the presentation. When I was done, he simply said, Allen, I have just one question for you. Did you make that cake? His works cut right through me. I simply bowed my head and said, no. I will never forget that. He had the boldness and courage to stand for the truth and wouldn't tolerate a lie from me. It was more important to him for me to learn honesty than impress my friends. Some of the best lessons are also some of the most painful.
I am really thankful for the opportunity to have had him as a teacher.

Bill Norris

March 8, 2021

Mr. Sullivan was my 6th grade teacher at Deming Elementary in Cheyenne, Wyoming 1964-65. He was also the football, basketball & track coach there. He was one of the finest teachers that I ever had! Most of my classmates that I have stayed in touch with hold similar views. He was a great teacher and a fabulous moral example for all of us.

While he is gone, he likely left behind a tremendous impact on literally thousands of lives. He is a clear embodiment of a life well-lived!

January 20, 2020

For several years I have been thinking of Ricks influences on my teaching career after many joyful years of bringing my students to outdoor school. He is missed but not forgotten. We all should aspire to be able to impact others in such a positive way. I still vividly remember him leading songs at meals and stories at campfires. Some of my favorite parts of my life. A true role model. Many of my students would later become counselors. Rick, I loved you... Donald Kays, Edmonds Schools

Riverton Heights 1970-1971

Elgin Anderson

November 9, 2018

I had Mr. Sullivan as my 6th grade teacher at Riverton Heights 1970-1971. He was my best teacher. Memories include collecting dirty socks to give to his teaching assistant (he had a great sense of humor) to his class forums on current political issues where all opinions were welcome and respected. He lived his mid-west values and had old fashioned morals - I mean that in the best way. I remember his catching me cheating on a test and keeping me after school to tell me how much I disappointed him. A stressful but valuable lesson. Firm, honest and tremendously caring. That event sticks with me to this day. Also how he stopped by each of his "kids" at night just before lights out at Camp Waskowitz to tell us each personally how proud he was of our behavior. I tried to look him up in later years but was unsuccessful. Even drove out to Waskowitz in 1994 but missed him. He left a positive mark on a lot of people. A good man.

Best teacher I ever had.

Elgin Anderson

November 9, 2018

Linda Mc

October 22, 2018

May the fond memories of your loved one sustain your family at this time. May you also receive comfort from what is stated at 1 Peter 5:6,7.

Jewelie Williams

November 27, 2017

My friend, you are missed greatly... I will miss our brief but interesting chats, I will miss your kind smile and positive outlook.I have met and lost many incredible people in my 15 years on dialysis, you, my friend will forever hold a special place in my heart and mind.I am so sorry for the loss that is left in the hearts and lives of your family, who are so blessed to have had you.Sharing this battle of kidney failure with you I understand this fight is one we simply can't fight forever, as we know its not a battle we can ever win...I will pray that when my fight is done, I will see you again dear friend, in a better place, in a better way where we are not broken by disease and pain...Until then, rest peacefully good man...With complete sincerity, your friend!
Jewelie

Jan Tillotson Miller

November 17, 2017

Mr. Sullivan was an amazing man. My life is truly better because of his influence on me and I bet many others would say the same thing. The world has truly lost a shining light. My condolences to the family.

Gord Hammond

November 5, 2017

Rick played on our softball team for a number of years. Since he was a number of years our senior, we referred to him as the Ancient Mariner. Rick possessed a strong passion for sports, and life in general.

My deepest sympathy and thoughts are with Jane and family.

Gary Favro

November 5, 2017

Lots of great memories working with Rick.
He developed a great program for Camp Waskowitz outdoor education.

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