Dick Shinstrom

Dick quietly passed away in his sleep at the family cabin on Whidbey Island on August 27, 2016. He will be missed by many and fondly remembered for the big smile and kind heart he always had. 

He was born in the family’s home in Redmond, WA on December 24, 1927 to Clayton and Helen Shinstrom. They later moved to Kirkland and established roots at the end of 11th Ave West raising their four children: Frank, Betty, Gail, and Dick. Dick was a graduate of Kirkland High School and went on to graduate from the University of Washington. He was a member of the Alpha Delta Phi Fraternity where he loved to participate in college activities, but his favorite was always singing. He had a beautiful deep Bass voice and loved to harmonize whenever he could.

Dick met Patricia Lee in early 1954 and they were married later that year. Pat was the love of his life; they were married 60 wonderful years, until Pat passed away in December, 2014. Also in 1954, Dick and his older brother Frank decided to separate the insurance business from the family’s banking business in Kirkland and opened the Shinstrom Insurance Agency. While Dick worked in the insurance business, Pat stayed home and raised their three boys. 

Wednesday lunches were always spent at the Kirkland Kiwanis Club. He was a 67 year member with perfect attendance, a past President of the club, song leader, past Treasurer, and always involved in or leading projects. He was an avid golfer at Sahalee Golf and Country Club. He also loved to snow and water ski, and had an insatiable desire to travel the world. He and Pat covered most of the globe, experienced many wonderful adventures, and filled the family home with pictures and memories from afar. 

Dick is survived by his sons Mark (Sue), Scott (Jan) & Steve (Patty) Shinstrom as well as six wonderful grandchildren: Dan, Doug, Jackie, Kellie, Eric & Alex Shinstrom.

A celebration of his life will be held on Friday Sept. 16 at Inglewood Golf & Country Club at 2:00pm. Wear your golf/country club attire to honor Dick’s love of the game. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the Kirkland Kiwanis Foundation.