He was born to Harry and Mable (Plum) in Fairmont, West Virginia. His parents, sister Mary, and brother Johnny preceded him in death. He served 22 years in the Navy, and was in three wars, World War II, Viet Nam, and Korea. He was a firefighter for 20 years, and was the President of the 16th District International Firefighter's Union. He was married to Betty for 66 years. They have three children: son Daniel, son Richard and daughter Shona; four grandchildren: Jeff, Jason, Martin, and Morgan; and three great-grandchildren: Camdyn, Madison, and Isaiah. Memorial services will be held Saturday, March 2nd, 2013, 1:00 p.m., at Grace Baptist Church, 10th & Union Street in Kennewick. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice at The Chaplaincy, 1480 Fowler Street, Richland, WA 99352.