Richard Wendell Bigelow

Richard Wendell Bigelow, loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and great-great grandfather returned home on October 19th 2022 for hopefully his greatest outdoor adventures ever.

The world welcomed “one of a kind” Richard in Holbrook, Arizona on March 10, 1931. Although born in Arizona he was mainly raised in Redding, California. After graduation Richard took the opportunity to briefly work in Alaska and then returning home to Redding to marry his high school sweetheart, Patricia Shephard. They welcomed four children before eventually relocating to Washington State and later divorcing.

While on a blind date with some friends, Richard met Norene Bingham who became his future eternal companion. Together the family grew and they raised a family of seven children.

Richard was a man of many talents and hobbies. Whittling, body building and fly tying are just a few but he will be most remembered for his stories (especially about sasquatches), jokes, and one of his greatest joys, taking family and friends on guided hunting and later mostly fishing adventures. He got them “hooked”. If Richard wasn’t hunting or fishing, you’d find him working away building or tinkering with a hammer in his hand.

Being an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was another thing Richard greatly cherished along with his family. Some of the callings he was blessed to serve in were Gospel Doctrine Teacher, High Councilman, Bishop, and Boy Scout Leader. Richard’s favorite callings were serving alongside his wife Norene, on four missions. They were called to Elberta, Utah, Griffith South, Australia (twice), and Inventory missionaries.

Richard is survived by his wife, Norene Bigelow, his children Richard Ken (Jerri) Bigelow, Pennie Bigelow (daughter-in-law), Lisa (Kayne) Kishiyama, Rene Herndon (daughter), Rod (Jeanette) Bigelow, Wendy (RobRoy) Barney, Holly (Joe) Solorzano, his sisters, Connie Motheral and Anne Marie Conway.

Preceding Richard in death is Don Ervin Bigelow (father), Melissa May Whiting (mother), Arlo Ken Bigelow (brother), Don Dee Bigelow (brother), Paige Bigelow (great granddaughter), and David Lee Bigelow (son).

Richard’s posterity continues with 26 grandchildren, 70 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren. Last but not least, he also leaves behind his faithful fishing companion Candy Ann (dog).

The family would like to thank Grace Memory Care and especially Jennifer and DeeDee at Brio for their warm and loving hospice care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Operation Underground Railroad by following this link: https://my.ourrescue.org/general-donate-recurring

The casket bearers at the service are Richard Bigelow (son), Wendy Barney (daughter), Christina Powers (granddaughter), Justin Bigelow (grandson), Courtney Bigelow (granddaughter), and Jeremiah Bigelow (grandson).

Honorary casket bearers are Elliot Albert (grandson), Julien Vincent (grandson), Holly Solorzano (daughter), RobRoy Barney (son-in-law), Dain Herndon (grandson), and Nathan Walker (friend)

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