Richard James Seewer passed away peacefully at his home in Irrigon on Feb. 11, 2024 at the age of 76 after fighting and enduring a long battle. He was surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on June 16, 1947 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Richard Carl Seewer and Alberta Rose Milczarek Seewer. He was the beloved little brother of Ronald and sisters, Carla and Judie.
Richard married Janet Lee Hill. From their time together, they had their children Maria, James (Jamie) and Justin. Later, he married Patricia Jerome Blanchard. This union brought JR (Richard James Jr.).
Richard had a strong, silent demeanor and was a hard worker. He worked for Union Pacific Railroad as an electrician for 41 years. He retired in 2007. In 1998, while working for the railroad, he moved to Oregon. Just prior to the move, he met and married Rebecca (Becky) Sue Larsen. They were married on Feb. 14, 1998 and their marriage was later sealed in the Salt Lake temple. Together they raised JR and Becky’s two children, Natalie and Giles.
Richard enjoyed camping with his family, being out on the boat, and skiing, both in the water and also on the mountain. He loved tinkering in a garage and was almost always working on cars. He especially loved restoring his Model T, which he showcased by driving it in the local Watermelon Festival parade in Irrigon for several summers. Also after moving to Oregon, he supported the local sports teams and spent many years looking after the Irrigon Senior Center. He cherished the many friendships he made in Irrigon.
Richard loved his family and loved having family get-togethers and visits. He had 16 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and others that all called him “Papa.” He loved that title!
Richard is survived by his wife, Becky; his children, Jamie, Justin, JR (Mellyssa), Natalie Ellett and Giles Ellett (Britni); his beloved grandchildren; and his sisters, Carla (Paul Tester) and Judie Barron (Frank Smith).
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Ron (Judy Bailey); and his sweet daughter, Maria.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 23 at 2 p.m. in the Boardman LDS church building.
The family would like to express appreciation to Good Shepherd Hospice Services and the many friends and family who have supported them.
Please share memories of Richard with his family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com.
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston is in care of arrangements.
