Galen R. Schweitzer

Galen R. Schweitzer 87, of Washtucna died on Oct. 15, at Life Care Center in Ritzville.

His life partner and soul mate Lynda Hamilton was by his side.

Galen was born in Winthrop, Buchanan County, Iowa to Charles and Lila Schweitzer on December 9, 1926. He was one of 12 children.

He was preceded in death by his parents numerous brother and sister and two great-grand children.

Galen is survived by Lynda, her two sons and grand-children.

His four children, Berry Cerino, Galen Schweitzer Jr., Jay Schweitzer and Barbara Miller, a brother Leonard Schweitzer and sister Evoghn Townsend and numerous grand-children and great grand-children.

Growing up in the Biggs, Gridley area of California, Galen quit school in the 8th grade to drive truck hauling almonds and prunes.

He joined the merchant marines in 1944. Sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge on his way to basic training on Santa Catalina Island. Galen then make his way through the pacific and to the Panama Canal delivering supplies to our men at sea.

Galen made his home in Seattle for many years where he retired from the Seattle City Light Company.

He also had property on Vashon Island where he built large Koi ponds in a park like setting, very peaceful and tranquil. He was particularly fond of animals and birds, he always seemed to have a dog by his side.

The last 20 years there was “Cheeto” and “Fiona”. Cheeto rode on his shoulder in the old blue pickup and Fiona always sat in his lap or by his side in the chair.

Galen made his final home in Washtucna. He liked the small town and tried to make business opportunities for people. Some worked out, some didn’t. He felt everyone needed a chance, if you can “Pay it Forward” as there is always someone in need of a helping hand.

A celebration of Galen’s life will be held at the Rimrock Grange in Washtucna at 1:00 pm Saturday November 1.

Lynda asks that the seedling trees be planted in Galen’s memory as he chopped down so many of them in his life time.