Obituary of Richard Robinson

No visitation Richard A “Robby” Robinson, Jr. was born in Ellensburg, Washington on August 21, 1936 to Richard A. Robinson, Sr. and Adele Oswalt. Robby always said that it was not the age, but the miles that mattered and that he had traveled a lot of miles and had a full life. Indeed, Robby lived life to its fullest which is evident by the number of friends he leaves behind. Robby graduated from Edmonds High School in 1954 and was recruited to play football for the University of Washington. He was an all-state Husky before a football injury prevented him from further play. Robby graduated from the University of Washington in 1958 with a B.A. in Far Eastern Studies. In 1970, Robby received his M.Ed. in American History. Robby was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army in June of 1958. He served four tours in Viet Nam and was a well respected leader. Among his honors are two Legion of Merits, several Bronze Stars, Army Commendation medals and an E.I.B. Robby retired from military service in 1979 and began a career with the state of Washington where he continued to provide leadership and direction in communications, management and leadership training. Creative Dimensions was founded in 1981 which took Robby all over the world as a motivational speaker. He “retired” his business in 2006. Robby became a master gardener in the 70’s and continued his love of plants and gardening until he died. He was an avid reader of history and belonged to the DuPont Historical Society, serving as the President. Robby moved to DuPont in 1998 and became an active member in the Northwest Landing ROA, The Historical Society, Centennial Committee, city government and was an expert pancake flipper at the 4th of July breakfast event held annually. Robby was married on September 8, 1956 to Elaine Whitham of Seattle, Washington. After more than 50 years together, he leaves her behind as well as three children, Sharon (Losey) of Olympia, WA, Richard III of Staten Island, NY, and Rene (Rivera) of Yakima, WA. Robby had many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and “honorary” grandchildren that were brought in to the family along life’s way. Donations in Robby’s memory can be made to the DuPont Presbyterian Church, 502 Barksdale Ave., DuPont, WA 98327. A memorial service with full military honors is planned on January 28, 2007 at the DuPont Presbyterian Church at 4:00 p.m.