Richard Earle
June 28, 1943 - March 30, 2021
Obituary
Richard Earle passed away peacefully the morning of March 30, 2021 at the age of 77. He was right where he wanted to be, at home and comfortable, with family and friends visiting as long as possible. He finally found his mercy of natural causes and held on as long as he could.
Born June 28, 1943, to Richard Thomas Earle and Betty Jean Bohlke, in Seattle, WA, Richard grew up with his family in West Seattle. He attended West Seattle High School along with his sister Kathy. Richard received a bachelor’s degree in art from the University of Washington, and went on to become an industrial arts instructor as well as an accomplished metal sculptor.
Richard taught metal shop within the Seattle School District throughout his career, and started a unique gas engines program in 1971 as an extension of that. His students still acknowledge their time with him with praise, remembering those days even more than 40 years later. During his art career, he brought Corten steel and bronze to life. He had a mind to make metal look like it was either flowing in water, or standing still like chunks of basalt rock. To see some of his early work is absolutely fascinating.
Richard’s wife Judy passed almost three years before him, and he desperately wanted to be with her again after their 52 years of marriage. Richard is survived by his sons Jeffrey Earle and Douglas Earle, sister Kathy Anderson, and nieces Betsey Anderson and Bonnie Haberzetle.
He was a very loving father who taught his sons how to use tools properly with respect, to be creative and always supported every venture they set out for. Motorcycling was one of his absolute favorite hobbies, and his sons shared that with him.
Richard influenced countless lives, and we’ll be looking forward to remembering him with friends and family at a Celebration of Life, at the Normandy Park Community Club (aka “The Cove Ballroom”) on Sunday August 14, 2022, 2:00pm, located at 1500 SW Shorebrook Dr, Normandy Park, WA 98166
