Richard Lee D'Eon, known affectionately to all as Skip, took his final flight on January 24, 2026. He passed away peacefully at the age of 83 in his home on Camano Island, WA, with his beloved wife of 63 years, Valerie, by his side.

Skip's life was defined by a profound love for the skies and an even deeper devotion to the people on the ground. A proud veteran, Skip served in the U.S. Air Force from 1961 to 1983. For over two decades, he walked the flight line with a sharp eye and a steady heart. His career as an aircraft maintenance specialist took him around the globe, including tours in England, Germany, Vietnam, Thailand and Korea.

Whether he was working on the F-4 or the F-111, Skip lived for the roar of an engine and the grace of a wing. He saw the beauty in the mechanics of flight, a deep, abiding love for aviation that he turned into a lifelong pursuit by earning his degree in Aeronautical Engineering from Embry Riddle University. His expertise led him to shape the next generation of aviators at Colorado Aero Tech and ensure the safety of iconic programs like the SR-71 and B-1 Bomber at Rockwell, before eventually bringing his talents home to Boeing in the Pacific Northwest.

Yet, for all his professional achievements, Skip was, first and foremost, a wonderful dad and grandfather. He was the steady hand and the guiding light for his four daughters, teaching them that hard work is only as valuable as the kindness you show others. As a grandfather of 8 and great-grandfather of 14, he was a source of endless stories and quiet wisdom.

When he wasn't looking at the stars, Skip was rooted in the beauty of the earth. From his youth spent collecting arrowheads along the Columbia River to gold panning, camping, and snowshoeing through the Colorado Rockies with Valerie, he found peace in nature.

Skip is survived by his devoted wife, Valerie D'Eon; his children, Karin (Keith), Debbie (Mark), and Jacqueline (Jay); 8 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and his sister, Toni (Bob). He now joins his parents, Gracia and Jerry, and his beloved daughter, Cindy, in the clear blue skies.

He will be honorably laid to rest at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, WA, on February 11 at 12:30 p.m.