Richard B. Halvorson passed away unexpectedly on Friday, Nov. 1, 2013, while celebrating an early birthday dinner with friends on Orcas Island.

Richard was born on Nov. 9, 1936 in Caldwell, Idaho., to Alvin R. Halvorson and Naona Bliss Halvorson. He graduated from Caldwell High School and then completed a bachelor of arts degree in English from Pacific Lutheran University.

In 1961, Richard married Marjory Zuger. They moved to Spokane, Wash., in 1963, where Richard began work for the Community Colleges of Spokane, eventually retiring as the Director of Planning and Contract Services. Richard relocated in 2005 to Orcas Island to be closer to his children. During his retirement he enjoyed traveling, was active in the Orthodox Church, studied German, and continued to refine his culinary talents. He was very proud of recently completing an online course from Harvard University on Ancient Greek Heroes. Richard enjoyed good food, lively discussion with friends, as well as an extra dry martini.

Richard is survived by his two children and their spouses, Mary and Steve Miller of Eastsound, Wash., John and Marnie Halvorson of Shoreline, Wash., and five grandchildren: Emily, John Jr., Dane, Megan and Riley Halvorson who will miss their “Opa”; and by his long-time friend Thomas Powell of Spokane.

There will be memorial services for Richard at a later date on Orcas and in Spokane. The family requests that remembrances go to the Orcas Island Community Foundation-LGBT fund, PO Box 1496, Eastsound WA 98245.