Daniel Dietrich

Dan Dietrich was a businessman, but more importantly, he was a husband, father and grandfather who adored his family.

| October 29, 2024 2:25 PM

Daniel Michael Dietrich, known to many as Dan, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones. Born on Feb. 3, 1937, in Portland, Ore., to Gwendolyn and Dan Dietrich, Dan's life was a testament to hard work, dedication, and love for his family and community.

Dan's early years were spent in LaGrande, Ore., and later in Pasco, Wash., where his father took over the family garbage business. The family eventually settled in Vancouver, Wash., where Dan attended Battleground School and excelled in varsity basketball. At 17, he joined the Air National Guard, marking the beginning of a long and distinguished military career.

Dan's summers during high school were spent working for his Uncle John at Basin Disposal in Pasco. One memorable summer, Dan took over his uncle's route without a driver's license, a story that brought laughter for years to come.

After graduating in 1956, Dan attended Eastern Washington College of Education on a basketball scholarship. He joined the Army ROTC and later transferred to the Army National Guard, where he served with distinction, retiring as a Major in 1981 after 24 years.

In 1957, Dan married Virginia Rae Zigan, and they built a life together in Moses Lake, Wash., and later Ephrata, Wash. Dan worked for the City of Ephrata and Grant County, where he developed a deep understanding of the solid waste industry. His commitment to environmental stewardship was unwavering, a promise he made to God and kept throughout his life.

Dan and Virginia adopted two children, Michelle Rae and Michael Ryan, who brought immense joy to their lives. Dan's dedication to his family was evident in his support of their endeavors and his pride in their achievements.

In 1978, Dan took over a small garbage franchise, eventually building Consolidated Disposal Services, Inc. from the ground up. His hard work and determination transformed the business into a thriving enterprise, reflecting his meticulous nature and commitment to excellence.

Dan enjoyed hunting, motorcycling and spending time with his family. His adventures included hunting trips to Canada and a memorable motorcycle tour of Southeast Australia.

Dan is survived by his beloved wife, Virginia; his children, Michelle Rae and Michael Ryan; his grandchildren, Ashley, Jessi, Jordyn, Nancy, Gracelyn and Trevor; and his great-grandchildren, Jaiden, Harley, Tegan, Anastasia, Ashton, Alaina and Colton; several nieces, nephews and cousins. His legacy of hard work, dedication and love will be cherished by all who knew him.

A celebration of Dan's life will be held Nov. 4, 2024, beginning with the Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and Mass at 11 a.m. at Saint Rose of Lima Catholic church in Ephrata. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Saint Rose of Lima Catholic School in Dan's memory.