Richard Carl (Rich) Trainer
Dec. 21, 1943 – Jan. 10, 2009
Rich Trainer passed away Saturday, Jan. 10, 2009, in Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, Washington. He was 65 and had fought a courageous 28-month battle with cancer.

Rich was predeceased by his parents, Cleo and Lt. Col. Trevlyn Trainer. Rich leaves to mourn his brother, Phil Trainer of Graham, Wash.; and his sister, Cindy Warrington and brother-in-law, Ken, of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. His niece and nephew, Jennifer and Jeff Trainer of Washington, and his two nephews, Ryan and Matt Warrington of Calgary, also survive him.

Rich was born in Hattiesburg, Miss., and spent most of his childhood in the Seattle area. He graduated from Evergreen High School and then graduated with a B.A. in economics from Pacific Lutheran University, Parkland, Wash. He studied further at Willamette University, Salem, Ore., and Eastern Washington State University, Cheney, Wash.

He worked in the department of the Attorney General of Washington state and then continued employment for several years with the Highline School District, in transportation.

Rich served his country several years in the Army Reserve and the Coast Guard.

He always loved the beauty of the outdoors in the Pacific Northwest in pursuits of, especially, sailing, golfing, biking, hiking and camping. His passion for sailing, combined with friendships, brought him to San Juan Island and “home.” Rich was always ready to sign on as a skipper or mate for regattas.

Rich spent many years employed at Friday Harbor Marine and Hardware (Ace), where he combined work with close friendships and enjoyed connecting with the community.

Rich was an active member of American Legion Post 163 and was a Master Mason at the Masonic Lodge, Friday Harbor.

The family would like to thank the community of San Juan Island, his co-workers, the Masonic Lodge and American Legion for their kind expressions of assistance and friendships with Rich. Also, we especially thank the staff of Islands Convalescent Center for their generous care and support, as well as the doctors and staff of Inter Island Medical Center, Friday Harbor; St. Joseph Hospital, Bellingham; Island Hospital, Anacortes; and Skagit Valley Cancer Center.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local chapter of the American Cancer Society in remembrance of Richard Carl Trainer.

While those he knew will sadly miss Rich, his positive attitude and courage will long be remembered.

Funeral service will be held at the Valley Church at the San Juan Valley Cemetery on Thursday, Jan. 22, 2009, at 3:30 p.m., with internment following. Then at 5 p.m., a Memorial Celebration of Master Mason and Veteran Rich Trainer’s life will be held at the American Legion Post 163, Friday Harbor.

To share memories of Rich, please sign the online guest register at www.evanschapel.com

— Family of Richard Carl (Rich) Trainer