Richard Henle

Richard Claude Henle, 82, residing in Mountain Home since 2010, passed away peacefully at his home on Jan. 13, 2015. Arrangements are under the care of Rost Funeral Home, McMurtrey Chapel.

Claude was born to Leon Claude Holstien and Mae (Cole) Holstien on Aug. 29, 1932, in Yakima, Wash.

His mother and father divorced, and he was adopted by his stepfather, Fred Henle. He had three younger siblings, a sister and two brothers. He completed high school in Yakima and received his bachelor's and master's degrees from Washington State University.

During his life, Claude, as he preferred being called, served nearly two years in the U.S. Army during the Korean War era. He then worked as a high school math teacher. He also worked at the Hanford Nuclear Reservation and after layoffs, for a fruit-packing company in Yakima. During this time, he went back to school to earn an accounting degree to teach at the community and business college level.

He loved dancing and weekly frequented the senior citizen center in Pasco, where he served for a time as their treasurer. He lived in Pasco with and helped care for his mother for many years.

He was known for a love of music, especially that of the old style crooners and big bands. Without formal training in piano, he taught himself to read music and play. He could play almost anything he cared to; by ear if necessary.

In his younger years, he enjoyed bowling, golfing and tennis. He also loved many different games of card games and regularly played with extended family. He attained the level of Life Master in duplicate bridge.

Claude was married twice, first to Joyce Still, with whom he had two sons and a daughter. He was also married to Marlene McNamara, who had two daughters.

He is survived by his brother, Don Henle of Everett, Wash.; sister, Dorothy (husband Corvin) Henderson of Pasco, Wash.; brother, Eugene (wife Jeanette) Henle of Pasco, Wash.; two sons, John R. (wife Michele) Ring of Mountain Home; and Steven J. Ring of Binghamton, N.Y., five grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren, 10 nieces and nephews and numerous great-nieces and nephews. Claude was preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter Diane and two grandchildren.

The family will have private observances at a later date. Please donate to a charity of your choice in lieu of flowers.