Richard A. VANDERVERT

Richard (Dick) Vandervert passed away on January 4 at Sacred Heart Hospital with family by his side. What started as a bad appendix, turned into septic shock, and ultimately heart failure. Dick graduated from Shadle Park HS class of 1963 and married his high school sweetheart, Bonnie Riddle, the following year. After working at various companies, Dick started Provincial Properties Real Estate. Years later, tired of sitting behind a desk, he eventually started Vandervert Construction, which he owned and ran successfully for 27 years before selling the company and focusing on the management of Vandervert Developments. Dick developed many beautiful office buildings, hotels, and retail centers in the Inland Northwest, and his reputation for quality is a testament to his character. Dick took the time over the years to mentor and advise many new entrepreneurs, who to this day consider him a powerful force in the success of their businesses. Many have stated that Dick: "Was a man of his word", "Consistently took time to talk and share ideas", "Gave me a chance", and "Was such a mentor to me." Some of those he influenced described him as Kind, Fair, Hardworking, Ethical, Honest, and so often – a Mentor. While he loved his work, his pride and joy were his family. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Bonnie; his daughter Debbie Cozzetto and son-in-law Steve, and three grandchildren – Michelina, Jared, and Jovan Cozzetto. He spent many years watching sporting events and cheering on his grandkids. It brought him great joy. He was blessed with lifelong friendships, and valued time with his "High School Buddies", family friends that were more 'family' than 'friends', the "Northside Advisory Board", and many a business relationship that turned into a lifelong friendship. Special thanks to our staff at VD & H, who admired him as a boss, but also as a friend. You were all so important to him! In lieu of flowers and in honor of Dick's love of landscaping, we have established a memorial fund in his name, which will provide grants to non-profits to provide landscaping and beautification in our local area for the public's health and enjoyment. This may include walkways, park benches, planting trees, and improving wildlife habitat. Memorial contributions can be made to Innovia Foundation to the Richard A. Vandervert Landscaping and Environmental Fund. (Online at www.innovia.org, / checks sent to Innovia Foundation (818 W. Riverside, Suite 650, Spokane, WA 99201) / by calling the Innovia office at 509-624-2606. (*Please identify Vandervert memorial gift). Or plant a tree in his honor at the place of your choice! A celebration of Dick's life will be announced at a later date.