Rick was such a big part of reunion planning committees. It's sad that he's not here to plan the 50th! Shoreline Area News: Northshore Fire mourns the loss of Fire Commissioner Rick Verlinda https://www.shorelineareanews.com/2021/06/northshore-fire-mourns-loss-of-fire.html
Rick was quite the family man PLUS he was a first responder. His 30+ year career with the Seattle Fire Department was legendary.
A sweet and talented man (remember him in the school play? Or playing piano at the school talent show?), his primary focus in life was his family, especially his devotion to his wife Debera, who sadly preceded him in death.
For over 20 years, he lived in Kenmore. His reputation grew rapidly in his neighborhood and beyond due to his never ending obsession with decorating his house for Halloween. Once November 1st came around, he would begin planning for the following holiday, always wanting to enhance his Haunted House.
In 2017, Rick was elected to the Board of Commissioners for Northshore Fire Department. He was greatly frustrated by what he perceived as unwise decisions being made by the existing board. Sometimes a lone voice for doing what was in the best interest of the community and the department, Rick nevertheless spoke out at meeting after meeting. Nothing was going to stop him in his quest for accountability and justice.
Mary Oaksmith (Nichols)
Rick was such a big part of reunion planning committees. It's sad that he's not here to plan the 50th!Shoreline Area News: Northshore Fire mourns the loss of Fire Commissioner Rick Verlinda
https://www.shorelineareanews.com/2021/06/northshore-fire-mourns-loss-of-fire.html
Debra Dwyer (Foley)
Rick was quite the family man PLUS he was a first responder. His 30+ year career with the Seattle Fire Department was legendary.A sweet and talented man (remember him in the school play? Or playing piano at the school talent show?), his primary focus in life was his family, especially his devotion to his wife Debera, who sadly preceded him in death.
For over 20 years, he lived in Kenmore. His reputation grew rapidly in his neighborhood and beyond due to his never ending obsession with decorating his house for Halloween. Once November 1st came around, he would begin planning for the following holiday, always wanting to enhance his Haunted House.
In 2017, Rick was elected to the Board of Commissioners for Northshore Fire Department. He was greatly frustrated by what he perceived as unwise decisions being made by the existing board. Sometimes a lone voice for doing what was in the best interest of the community and the department, Rick nevertheless spoke out at meeting after meeting. Nothing was going to stop him in his quest for accountability and justice.
A wonderful man, now sorely missed.