Richard Edward Combs

Richard Edward Combs

Born September 27, 1927

Washington, DC

Preceded in death by his wife, Yukiye Hamatani Combs, Christina Kowalski Combs (Mother), John B Combs (Father) and John B Combs (Brother). Dick’s living family includes Thomas J. Combs (Brother), Florence Linda Lynch (Sister) and nieces Kathleen Mann (Mark), Tina Lynch Safreed, Kelly McCarley (Scott) and Kathleen Combs Fairley (Chris) along with great nieces and nephews Kylie McCarley, Cody McCarley, Holly Mann, Garrett Safreed, Logan Safreed, Delaney Fairley and Parker Fairley.

Richard, lovingly known as Dick by his family and friends was born in the nation’s capital and called the Lincoln Memorial his playground. Dick was an altar boy at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church in Washington DC where he spent many hours helping his mother cook and bake for the priest as well as the community. He attended St. John’s Academy Prep School (college high school) in Washington DC and on his last trip back to Maryland he visited his alma mater where he had lunch and took a tour. When he walked through the door of the school, the first thing he saw was his class picture and he grinned from ear to ear. Dick joined the army and was active in WWII. Dick was known for his photographic memory and he worked for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) later moving to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). He successfully climbed the career ladder only to fall for his secretary, the love of his life, Yukiye Hamatani. After several years of marriage, Dick became the caretaker of his aging mother and her dachshund, Fritz and the two became four. During his career in the FAA, hey moved frequently and finally set down roots in Renton, Washington. Dick loved to travel, and made friends everywhere they went. He was always the first to lend a helping hand giving all to help his church, home and community. Dick’s love for the lord led him to be a Deacon. He also joined the Knights of Columbus.

His sister Linda recalls when Dick bought her a dress and took her to his senior prom because he told her he was so proud of her.

The eldest Niece, Kathleen, reminisces at the time of her father’s death, Uncle Dick began guiding me through every aspect of my life. Once He realized I was not becoming a nun he spent the next forty years leading me on my spiritual journey.

The middle niece and favorite, Tina, fondly remembers her first summer visiting Colorado, Uncle Dick set her up on the first date with his best friend’s son. She spent the whole day before throwing up and thus the blind date never happened.

The youngest brat, Kelly’s favorite memory is that he got her started riding horses. He regretted that decision when she made it her career for the next forty + years!

Rest in Peace, Brother, Uncle, Deacon, and Friend… you will be dearly missed by all!

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