Richard Lee “Dick” Erdmann, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 9, 2024, at the age of 83, surrounded by his loving family, and following a courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease and Myasthenia Gravis.
Dick was born on April 9, 1941, in Evanston, Illinois, to Leon and Phyllis Erdmann and moved to Huntington, West Virginia as a boy where he graduated from Huntington High School in 1959. Following a year at Marshall University, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, a decision that would shape the course of his life in unexpected and wonderful ways.
It was while stationed in Christchurch, New Zealand, as part of the Air Force’s Antarctic operations that Dick met the love of his life, Anne Longman. Anne, a native of Dunedin, New Zealand captured his heart with her grace and warmth, and the two embarked on a love story that would span nearly six decades. After completing his military service, Dick returned to New Zealand, where he and Anne married in 1966. Their union was one of enduring love and unwavering support, and together they built a life rich in experiences and deep in affection.
Dick earned a degree in electrical engineering from Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology, and in 1978, the Erdmann family made their way back to the United States, settling in Portland, Oregon, where Dick began a long and fulfilling career with General Electric.
Beyond his professional life, Dick was an avid golfer, often found on the green with a smile on his face, enjoying both the game and the camaraderie it brought. His love for the sport was infectious, and he passed that love on to his sons, who carry forward his passion for the game. Time spent together on the course was a cherished family tradition, filled with laughter, friendly competition, and shared memories that will last a lifetime. Dick’s sense of humor, kind heart, and unwavering positivity touched everyone he met, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to know him.
Dick’s greatest joy, however, was his family. He was a loving husband to Anne, his partner in all things, for 58 beautiful years. He was a proud father to his sons Mike (Melanie), Travis (Genevieve), and Scott (Ionela), and a doting grandfather to Zachary, Jacob, Oscar, Avery, and Will. His love for his family was boundless, and he took immense pride in their accomplishments and happiness. He is also survived by his brothers Rob (Jolene) and Bill, and was preceded in death by his infant daughter Beth Anne and his sister Peggy.
Dick’s final resting place will be at Willamette National Cemetery in Portland, where he will be honored in a private ceremony. A celebration of his life will be held on Wednesday, August 28, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, in the Octagonal Barn at McMenamins Cornelius Pass Roadhouse, located at 4045 NW Cornelius Pass Road in Hillsboro. In true “Dick fashion,” golf attire will be encouraged.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dick’s name to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.