Richard T. FODE

1931 - 2023

Richard Theodore Fode, 92, passed away peacefully at his home in Spokane, WA, on December 26, 2023, surrounded by his loved ones. Richard was born on the family homestead in Lind, WA, to Theodor and Lydia Fode on August 11, 1931. He and his eight siblings were raised with strong German work ethics while tending to livestock and chores on the wheat farm.

In high school, Richard was involved in agricultural programs, football, baseball, ASB President, and choir ensemble. His beautiful alto voice was also showcased in church every Sunday without fail. He loved playing the pool game snooker with his friends and was known for being easy going, friendly, and always willing to lend a helping hand.

After Richard graduated from Lind high school in 1949, he attended Washington State College for one year and then joined the Air Force to serve his country. During the Korean War he was stationed at Kotzebue, Alaska, where he maintained the radar power and generation systems. After his military service, he honed his diesel mechanic skills and built a reputation that led to a 40-year career as a Caterpillar field service mechanic. Richard worked for many logging operations throughout the Northwest as well as the Trans-Alaska pipeline. He was known for his tireless work ethic and dedication to his employer as well as the customers he served.

While Richard was working in Spokane he became pen pals with his future wife, Marilyn Biehn, who was attending Washington State College. Richard pulled up to her dormitory in a shiny new 1955 Chevy Bel Air for their first date, and the rest was history. They were married in 1960 and together had one child, Laura Lynn, in 1966. During retirement, Richard and Marilyn enjoyed traveling throughout the entire United States, Canada, and Mexico in motorhomes. They embarked on numerous cruises throughout the globe together, sharing many adventures. Richard was a loving, thoughtful, and doting husband to Marilyn, and taught great love and respect in marriage to many family members across multiple generations.

Richard's family was the most important and central aspect to his life. There was no greater joy than watching his grandchildren grow while being a part of their lives. He was always front and center to support his family at many choir, musical theater, and sporting events.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Ted and Lydia Fode; siblings Esther (Dave) Schaal; Reinhold Fode; Clarence (Viola) Fode; Alfred (Barbara) Fode; Irene (Jack) Scheeler; and Harold Fode. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Marilyn; daughter Laura (Todd) Hyde; granddaughter Hailey (Ryan) Flint; grandson Hunter Hyde; brother Elmer (Patsy) Fode; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He will forever be remembered as a hardworking, honest, and loving man to all who had the honor of knowing him.

A celebration of Richard's wonderful life will be held at 1:00PM on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at Heritage Funeral Home, 508 N. Government Way, Spokane, WA 99224, with a reception to follow. He will be laid to rest at the Lind, WA, cemetery.