Richard Anthony Cronin, 83, died peacefully in Oak Harbor on Nov. 17, 2005, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his 13 children: Dick, John, Mike, Michelle, Jim, Mary, Larry, Pat, Gene, Paul, Anne, Margaret and Maureen; his sister, Mary Behrends, of Illinois, his brother-in-law, James Cooper, 32 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Dick, as he was called by those who knew him, was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Tess, his grandson, Brian, and his sisters, Lillian and Helen.

Dick was born Oct. 21, 1922, in Chicago, to Eugene and Elisabeth Cronin. He served in the Coast Guard during World War II and married Tess in 1945. They settled in Washington in 1952 where Dick began a life-long career in banking. He was an avid World War II and aviation buff, a lover of all things Irish, and he was deeply committed to his Catholic faith. Dick was a gentle soul who lived his life as an eternal optimist who had words of kindness for everyone he met.

The family wishes to thank Tommy Scott his incredible caregiver and Donna Scott for their help in making Dad’s last days peaceful. Go on angels’ wings, Dad.

Rosary: Monday, Nov. 21, 7 p.m., at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Oak Harbor.

Funeral Mass: Tuesday, Nov. 22, 11 a.m., St. Augustine Catholic Church, Oak Harbor, reception immediately following.