Community of Christ Member and Firefighter Richard Taylor Dies at 65

Richard Eugene Taylor, known to many as Rick, passed away on February 15, 2017, in his Tigard, Oregon, home. He was 65 years old. Born in Bremerton, Washington, on August 1, 1951, Rick lived a life marked by service and dedication, both in his professional career and personal relationships.

Rick began his career at Business Machine Company as a typewriter repairman in 1972. He later joined the Tualatin Rural Fire Protection District in 1975, eventually becoming a firefighter with Tualatin Valley Fire and Rescue. Over the years, he advanced through the ranks, serving as an Engineer, Lieutenant, and Lieutenant-Paramedic. Rick retired in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and camaraderie within the fire service.

In addition to his firefighting career, Rick worked as a Flight Paramedic for AirCare in 1988 and Life Flight in 1991. He became one of the most senior paramedics with Life Flight and continued to teach basic and advanced life support courses after retiring from the organization in 2014. He also taught with Cascade Learning Center, keeping himself engaged in education and training well into his retirement.

Rick was a devoted member of the Community of Christ, joining the church as a young adult. He served as a dynamic youth leader and mentor for decades, influencing countless young people through summer camps, SPECTACULAR, and his role as pastor at the Tuality congregation. His commitment to the church and its mission was evident in his long-standing involvement and leadership.

Golf was Rick’s favorite pastime, and he was known for his passion and dedication to the sport. He owned every golf gadget ever invented, won tournaments, and played in extreme conditions from Canada to Pebble Beach. Rick cherished the time spent on the course with friends and family, particularly with his grandson Matthew, whom he considered one of his favorite partners in the game.

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