Loren F. Richard
Loren F. Richard was a proud American and one of the first green beret, the common name for the U.S. Army Special Forces. He leaves behind children and grandchildren who will miss him.
Loren F. Richard, longtime Washington State resident passed away Friday, Feb. 23, 2023. He was 88 years old. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. April 17, 2024, at the American Legion Post in Ephrata, Wash.
Loren was born in Peoria, Ill., on Nov. 14, 1935. His storied career began with his enlistment in the Army 82nd Airborne as one of the original Green Berets. In business, Loren had notable successes at Dale Carnegie, Campbell Soup and Grove Manufacturing company.
In 1976, Loren moved to Seattle, Wash. There, he discovered Orcas Island and became a land developer for many years. After retirement, Loren moved to Soap Lake, Wash., where he bought the famous Del Red Pub. Soap Lake held a special place in Loren’s heart. He lived there for the next 25 years.
Loren dedicated much of his time honoring his country by serving as the past commander of the American Legion Post #28 in Ephrata, Wash. He also served as the District 9 Commander of the American Legion. Loren was a true patriot who could always be found attending local Veterans Day parades, honoring local Veterans and saluting the American flag. He was very proud to be an American.
Loren is survived by his children, Becky Shomali, Michael Richard, Cindy Pennington, Patrick Richard and Scott Brooks. Loren leaves behind eight grandchildren.
Loren was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Edna Richard and all of his siblings: Marland and Ron Richard, Judy Richard Borcherding and Linda Richard Collins.