Richard Leroy “Dick” Bryant

Richard Leroy “Dick” Bryant, age 62, died at his home in Oak Harbor May 17, 2004. He was born May 28, 1941, in Conrad, Mont., to Virgil Leroy and Clarinda (Kober) Bryant. Richard’s father was involved with construction and the family moved across much of Montana seeking work.

Dick joined the U. S. Navy Oct. 14, 1958, in Conrad, Mont. He was sent to San Diego and on to Norman, Okla. He was designated as a parachute rigger and attended PR school at Lakehurst, N.J. Following completion of school, Dick received his first orders to Whidbey Island Naval Air Station. Dick was married to the former Helen Jean Aakre in Conrad, Mont., June 25, 1960.

Mr. Bryant was transferred to Agana, Guam, in 1963 and then on to Sanford, Fla.; Lemoore and Pt. Magu, Calif., and in 1975, back to NAS Whidbey. He did sea duty for a time, but returned to Whidbey in 1978. Dick returned to Lakehurst, N.J., and then back to Whidbey in 1985. He retired March 1, 1988 as a master chief petty officer (E-9).

Dick enjoyed working with his scroll shop on wood projects. He built model airplanes for a time and also was an avid photographer with his own dark room, processing both black and white and color photographs. He also enjoyed assembling black powder charges. Dick was a very private man who enjoyed staying out of the limelight.

Mr. Bryant is survived by his wife Jean at the family home, Oak Harbor; by two sons, James Leroy Bryant of Stanwood and Stephen Ray Bryant of Oak Harbor and two grandchildren, Tara Jean Bryant and Laura Jo Bryant, both of Camano Island. His father Virgil Bryant of Kalispell, Mont., one brother Kenneth Bryant and one sister Linda Treadway, both of Kalispell, Mont., also survive.

Mr. Bryant requested no formal funeral services be conducted. Cremation was held with private family inurnment to follow at a later date. Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Burley Funeral Chapel.