Richard Melvin Otis
August 15, 1946 - June 24, 2016
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Richard Melvin Otis
August 15, 1946 - June 24, 2016
Obituary
Born 69 years ago, Richard Melvin Otis finally succumbed to the ravages of ALS on Friday, June 24th. He will be sorely missed by so many.
Richard enjoyed a happy childhood, growing up in Bellingham with his brothers, surrounded by many, many friends. Upon graduating from Bellingham HS in 1964, he began working for the Bellingham Herald. Menial tasks led to greater ones, and he ultimately carved out a lengthy career with the local newspaper. This career was interrupted by the Viet Nam War. To do his part, Richard volunteered with the U.S. Air Force and served his country through four turbulent years. Upon discharge, he resumed his work with the Herald, moving into the composing room, where he learned to assemble each page before printing. No one did it better.
In his spare time, Richard hosted a radio show called Buried Treasures. Here he shared with listeners his love for records of the 50’s, 60’s & 70’s.
To his great delight, Richard came to know Jesus Christ as his personal savior. This brought him great joy for many years and served to inspire and uplift him all the way to the end of his bodily existence.
Richard is survived by his wife Camille, his daughter Holly Otis & partner Kenneth Prince, his daughter Amanda Henderson, husband Justin & their sons, Ezekiel and Judah. Also surviving are his brothers Bob and Ron.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, July 1st at 11am at Moles Farewell Tributes, Bellingham (2465 Lakeway Drive) followed by a reception.
Memorial Service
- Date & Time: July 1, 2016 (12:00 AM)
- Venue: Moles Farewell Tributes- Bellingham
- Location: 2465 Lakeway Dr Bellingham, WA 98229 - (Get Directions)
- Phone Number: (360) -73-3-0510
11 responses to Richard Melvin Otis
Shelly Keepers Shaw says:
June 24, 2016
I knew Richard (Dick) since sunday school and nooksack camp days. I also worked at the Bellingham Herald with him. He was really close with my cousins, and they were very important to him, I know. My consolences to his family. May he ALWAYS be in your hearts.