Born February 6th, 1935 to parents Odd and Mabel Lykstad in Souris, North Dakota passed away March 25th, 2024 in his Enumclaw home at the age of 89.
Moving West, the family settled at Lake Geneva where he would swim daily, eventually hired on as Lifeguard. In his High School years, they relocated to Buckley where his father had been appointed Chief of Police. Rick was well liked and accepted swiftly, even being elected Student Body President his Senior year. It was there at W.R.H.S. that Dad met our Mother Uretta (Bock)…. the Love of his life. They lovingly and devotedly were hand in hand for 67 years, bedazzling watchers-on as they floated on the breezes of the dance floor.
Following High School, Dad enlisted in the U.S. Navy Reserves where he served honorably. At this time, he also began working at the railroad roundhouse in Auburn ~ launching a life long career in the world of train and rail, in time leading to a Chief Auditor position with the Trans-Continental Freight Bureau from which he retired in 1990.
Dad and Mom raised three boys on the Old Buckley Hwy nestled among the homes of Family – immediate and extended. Dad was firm, fair, and loving. These were the days when children kept their rooms clean, spoke respectfully, ate what was on their plates, and we were not allowed to roam until Noon on Saturdays, following an entire morning of completing our chores. “Up and at ‘em, rise and shine”!
Following retirement, he and Mom built vacation homes in Ocean Shores, then Yuma AZ. They moved their primary residence to the Shores of Hood Canal, then spent their last nearly 20 years in their Bonney Lake home, closer to family.
Following Mom’s passing in 2021, Dad downsized to an Enumclaw home, eventually meeting his companion Corine, who was at his side kindly and lovingly until his passing.
Dad left behind brother Boyd (Shirley), sister Joyce, three sons: Rick (Michelle), Dave (Teresa), and Tom. Grandchildren Jackie, Camille, Sarah, Katlyn, Rebecca, Trevor, Madeline and Luke. These, and four great grandchildren. Proceeded in death by his parents, brother Orvin, and loving wife Uretta.
Rick was a kind, lighthearted, well read and adventurous man. He will be missed and loved to our own last breaths.
Graveside Services 11:30am on Saturday, August 3rd at Weeks Funeral Home, Buckley, followed by a gathering at the Enumclaw VFW Hall – 44426 244th Ave SE. All are welcome to attend.
