Late of Birch Bay, Wash., Richard D. Brobyn passed away peacefully at Whatcom Hospice House with his family by his side on March 19, 2014.
He was predeceased by parents, Walter and Edna (Dolde) Brobyn and his previous wife Anne (Singer) Brobyn.
He is survived by his wife Olga; son, Scott Brobyn of Bainbridge Island, Washington and brother, Robert (Bob) Brobyn of Philadelphia; stepsons, Patrick Nash (Linda), Allan Buxton (Yvonne); grandchildren, Jason Nash (Anita), Lisa Robinson (Jason), Christopher Buxton (Christine, Alicia Buxton; great-grandchildren, Carson Robinson, Jason and Evan Nash, Alexander Buxton; sister-in-law, Perry Vincent (Roy); brother-in-law, Paul Peregoodoff (Sharon); niece, Elly Wright (Kevin); nephews, John, James, Craig Brobyn, David Vincent, Steven Peregoodoff (Daniel), Terry Peregoodoff, Matt and Carlie Sawchuk, Camden and Porter Peregoodoff; and Ruby, a grand dog who stayed with him on his bed the day he passed.
Richard was born in Philadelphia, Pa. on Feb. 22, 1932. He attended Penn Charter, Haverford College and University of Pennsylvania, where he received his medical degree. He also received his doctorate’s degree in clinical pharmacology.
He spent five years active duty with the Navy stationed at Bethesda and Bremerton, where he worked in decompression and mixed gases. He then went on to spend 25 years in the Navy Reserve.
While in Bremerton he fell in love with the Pacific Northwest and he and Anne moved to Bainbridge Island, where Richard practiced medicine for many years.
He spent much of his medical career doing clinical trials and drug research. His passions were history, astronomy and science and he liked nothing better than to have a good debate and share his knowledge. He placed great importance on education and was able to help many young people achieve their goals through his generosity. He was a true patriot and proud of his country.
He recently spent the day at the Reagan Ranch at Simi Valley and he was very moved by this experience.
He also was proud to have been invited to attend the dedication of the Bush library where all five living presidents were in attendance. Richard and Olga had a busy life traveling to various battlefields, places of history and art galleries, spending time with family and friends and enjoying the beautiful Pacific Northwest.
Richard loved Cabo San Lucas, and every year he and Olga would spend time there. Last year his dream was realized when he landed a marlin. Richard and Olga were true companions who complemented one another.
Words cannot express the gratitude in our hearts for all the love and support we received from family, friends, the enter team at Hospice who were with us at this difficult time. A special recognition goes to our dear friends Peter and Victoria Wilhelmsen for their support as they walked with Richard and myself during this journey.
If so desired donation in Richard’s memory may be made to:
Whatcom Hospice House, 2800 Douglas Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225;
Haverford College, 370 Lancaster Avenue, Haverford, PA 19041.
Or a charity of your choice. A gathering of family and friends was held at the family home to celebrate Richard’s life.
