RICHARD JOHN GEFFREY

Richard John Geffrey passed away peacefully at home on June 2, 2026. He was born on April 6, 1945, to parents Leander and Violet Geffrey in Rolla, North Dakota. At age 3, the family moved to Chinook, Montana, where he spent his youth. Growing up on a farm, he developed a love for working with his hands, spending time in the fields, and being outdoors; experiences that shaped the strong work ethic he carried throughout his life.

On his first day of high school, Richard was lucky to meet the love of his life, Margaret. A three-sport letterman, he played football, basketball and track. After high school Richard attended Eastern Montana College before enlisting (1964) in the U. S. Navy, serving on the USS Providence based in California. Two years later he returned to Montana where, in Great Falls, he found a position working as a meat processor, a job that would greatly impact his career path. In 1967, Richard moved to Seattle where he accepted an entry level position at Associated Grocers in their meat department warehouse.

Richard and Margaret married in July of 1969. Five years later they moved back to Montana to pursue a farming career. Life on the farm was tough but rewarding. Richard was able to work hard, solve problems, and start his family. They welcomed their first child, Craig, in 1974. In 1976, the young family decided to return to the Pacific Northwest. They settled in Renton where Richard resumed work at Associated Grocers. The following year their daughter Nicole was born. Working his way up through the ranks of the Meat Department, with a brief stint in Transportation, Richard was thrilled and proud to be able to retire in 2000 as Vice President of Perishable Procurement.

In retirement, Richard thrived. One of his biggest gifts was an aptitude and love for working with numbers. This passion made him a savvy personal investor and a trusted advisor to friends and family for financial guidance and mathematical problem-solving; roles he thoroughly enjoyed. He used his talents to take on responsibilities at Zion Lutheran Church in Kent, as a member of both the Trust and Finance Committees.

Richard enjoyed most games, but especially cards, golf, and cheering on his favorite sports teams. At church, he valued his time with his poker friends and the men’s ministry group. Embracing routine, one of his favorite activities was counting steps on his daily walks, setting mileage goals, collecting every can and coin in his path, and faithfully logging his results.

Richard’s truest passion was his family, which he said was his greatest happiness. As a husband and father, he was a constant source of strength and dependability. Ready with thoughtful advice and a helping hand, he would find a way to make things better for the people he loved. He took genuine joy in working in the yard, staying busy with hands-on projects, and making a difference in the everyday lives of his family. He was the kind of person who never hesitated to show up and was the first to help whenever he was needed. Known for having quick wit, he loved a good joke and was always ready with a smooth come-back, quip, or laugh.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Leander John and Violet Irene (Guderjahn) Geffrey, sisters Minerva Hunter, Sharon Mackenstadt, Sandy Samsel, and brothers Gary and Rodney. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Margaret Ellen (Pridgeon); son Craig Nicholas (Christy Culp) Geffrey and their dog, Gary; daughter Nicole Michelle Geffrey; sisters Cynde Maddox and Lana Fulcher; numerous sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews and their families.

A celebration of life will be held on July 11, 2026, at Zion Lutheran Church in Kent, WA at 11 a.m., with a reception to follow. The service will also be available on the church’s YouTube channel at http://www.zionkent.org for those unable to attend.

In Richard’s honor, please consider doing something extra or special to help someone in need. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local Food Bank.