Richard Hollis Mulford

October 17, 1932 - August 11, 2015

Our beloved Richard Hollis Mulford peacefully passed away on Aug. 11, 2015 after a long, courageous battle with Parkinson's. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Agnes; daughter Christie; son Dale; daughter-in-law Cynthia; grandchildren Jessica (Jeff), Rachel (Mike), Valerie, Haley, Stefanie and Matthew along with great-grandchildren: Zachery, Malaki, Marvin, Izzy, Tommy and Millie. "Gramps" was devoted to them all, as well as his extended family of in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

"Every day is a good day" was Gramps' favorite line. He was born in Yakima to Lurline and Hollis Mulford on Oct. 17, 1932. The family moved from Parker to Seattle where he attended school. After graduating, he was hired by Boeing where he worked as a machinist. He went on to work as a telegrapher for the railroads. In 1950 he was drafted by the U.S. Army and immediately placed as a communication specialist. Corporal Mulford was honorably discharged and hired by Pacific Northwest Bell. He was fluent in the development of communication from telegraph to fiber optics and could fix any system in-between. Nothing broken survived at work or at home, as his rule was "fix it or pitch it." After the army, Gramps moved from Seattle to Vancouver, home of his uncles, John and Jim (Oma) Mulford. Aunt Oma introduced him to Agnes, his lifetime love, whom he always called, "Ma". The couple married, bought a new home in Vancouver, and then moved out to rural Hockinson to achieve a life dream of farming and ranching. In addition to full-time at PNB in Vancouver and Moses Lake and raising livestock, hay and Christmas trees, Gramps found time to build two of the family's homes and remodel rentals. His self-taught interests were many; from restoring antiques to history to art to mechanics to nature to travel; all done with, and for, his family. Grandchildren were convinced that the zoo, science center, kid-friendly eateries, and beaches were part of the couple's week, not just during their stays. He and "Ma" would regularly drive hours just to watch a grand/great grandchild's ball game or program; then take the family out to a restaurant (Gramps' "cooking"). The dream of living closer to their growing family came true after moving to Pasco ten years ago.

Gramps lived a life of example, putting his beliefs into works of helping others, and never wanting recognition. Even before "Pay it forward," it was a routine for him, helping others farm/build/repair, quietly donating his skills and giving to places ranging from an inner-city school to a mountain abbey.

The family would like to thank Avalon Care Center in Pasco for their constant dedication, compassion and care.

Gramps lived his faith simply, through words and actions. His church was never a place to be in, but a place inside him. He always insisted there be no funeral, and that his wish be honored. Following his wishes, the family will gather privately for a celebration of life. We ask you to keep Gramps in your hearts, remembering his joy of life, stories, and service. For online condolences please visit www.AskHillcrest.com.