Wilkeson resident Richard Heath died Dec. 8, 2015.

He was born March 2, 1940, in Salina, Kan., to the late John and Alberta Heath. They later moved to Enumclaw, where he attended school. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1957 and served as a gunner’s mate on the USS LeRay Wilson. While in the Navy, he traveled to Hawaii, Japan, China, New Zealand, Australia, the Mariana Islands and the Philippines. After his discharge, he met and married Darlene Wilks, his wife of 54 years. He made his living as a log truck driver. Following the birth of a son, Rick, the couple moved to Wilkeson where they lived for the last 39 years. He loved his grandchildren and enjoyed spending time with them. He liked to go on long drives in the country with his family and for years after his retirement, he enjoyed his ritual of morning coffee and socializing at the Burnett Store.

He is survived by wife Darlene Heath of Wilkeson; son Rick Heath (Misty) of South Prairie; brother Norman Heath of Enumclaw; and five grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a sister, June Johanson.

A celebration of his life took place Sunday, Dec. 20.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the American Cancer Society.