Ricky Dean Vaagen

Ricky "Rick" Dean Vaagen, age 60, a lifelong resident of Colville, WA passed away on January 9, 2022 in Spokane, WA due to complications of a heart attack.  Rick was born on January 21, 1961 in Minot, ND the son of John Vernon and Carol Eileen (Christianson) Vaagen.

He moved with his family to Colville in 1964 where he then attended school.  Rick enjoyed the social elements of school and participated in the choir.  In 1979, Rick graduated from Colville High School as a twelve-year senior.  His roots continued to grow in the Colville soil as he began a career at the Vaagen Lumber Mill.  For the next 42 years, Rick worked in the mill serving multiple roles of internal logistics.  He worked long days and had a strong work ethic.  Rick took pride in assisting the new hires with their questions and helping them navigate their new work environment.  He could be counted on to serve where ever needs arose.

Rick's enjoyment came in time shared with family and friends.  He was always there, quietly watching over his family.  His nieces and nephews affectionately named him "Uncle Buck" and looked forward to the smile that followed.  As a young adult, Rick enjoyed snow skiing, bowling, and playing town league softball.  In his later years, Rick served leadership roles at the Elks Lodge including Exalted Ruler and was a longtime member of the both the Eagles and Elks Lodges in Colville.  He loved being out of the golf course with family and friends.   Although quiet in character, his passion was people and socializing with friends and fraternity.  He would also try his hand with lady luck at the local casinos on an occasion or two.  His compassionate heart, attentive ear and constant presence will be greatly missed.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Roni Ross.

He is survived by his siblings; Mick Vaagen (Barb Adams) of Colville, WA, Jeannie Luiten of Colville, WA, Lori Gilbert (Troy) of Spokane, WA; brother in-law; Marcus Ross of Chewelah, WA, several nieces and nephews; his closest friend, Dave Garringer (Debbie) of Colville and a host of extended family and friends.

A memorial service for Mr. Rick Vaagen will be scheduled in the spring.  He will be laid to rest beside his parents with a graveside service and vault interment at 1:00 p.m., Monday, January 17, 2022 at the Mountain View Park Cemetery in Colville, WA.