Richard Francis Betts

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our beloved Richard. He died at home with his wife Laurie at his side, in the early morning hours of December 6, 2025, at the age of 68. Richard Francis Betts was born in Spokane, WA, on March 1, 1957, to Dr. Richard and Aileen Betts, the sixth of seven children. He often spoke fondly of his upbringing on the South Hill, where he spent many hours riding his bike, playing in Manito Park, and “hanging out” with friends.

He was educated at Sacred Heart Grade School, Gonzaga Preparatory School and spent two years at Gonzaga University where he studied engineering. In 1977, he transferred to the University of Washington where he attained both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering. Upon graduation, Richard enjoyed a long and illustrious career as an electrical engineer in the fields of health care and aerospace, eventually becoming a project manager. Retiring in 2016, his professional accomplishments included seven patents.

He resided in Seattle and Snoqualmie before moving to Tacoma in 2021. Though he battled years of living with type 1 diabetes, he did not let his health issues keep him from living a rich and full life. He was a talented chef and prepared countless meals for friends and family, passing down his love of cooking to his daughter Taylor. He will be remembered for his delightful wit, his keen intellect, and his unfailing generosity. His parents Richard and Aileen, sisters Mary and Julie, and brother John preceded Richard in death. Surviving him are his wife Laurie, daughter Taylor Betts, grandson Joshua, siblings Jim Betts (Pat Delio), Lilian Betts and Vicki Scarcello, and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition, he is survived by Laurie’s son Erik Heinz and his wife Quinn, along with their daughters Charlotte, Chandler, and Sawyer.

Last August, Richard was privileged to attend his Gonzaga Preparatory 50th high school reunion as a proud member of the class of 1975, the last all male class at Prep. Therefore, in lieu of flowers, please send memorials in Richard’s name to Gonzaga Preparatory School, Class of 1975 Scholarship Fund, 1224 East Euclid Avenue, Spokane, WA 99207. Online donations may also be made through https://www.gprep.com

To honor Richard’s legacy, a Celebration of Life is planned for a later date.