Obituary: Richard “Rick” Lively, 80, The Dalles
Richard “Rick” Lively of The Dalles, Oregon was granted the peace he desired on the evening of March 13, 2025, at the age of 80. The second child and first-born son of Helen & Gene Lively, originally of Wallowa, Oregon.
That’s about all the room there is for a standard obituary if you knew him at all!
The independent black sheep in our family for sure, but in his case this carried an endearing and loving connotation. All would agree: He wore his heart on his sleeve every day of his life no matter the cost. He lived life his way, as his sister would say!
Always kind and generous to others down on their luck and quick to stick up for the underdog. He was also known for the special fondness he reserved for the many (many) stray critters who found their way into his care over the years.
His accomplishments were many, but what mattered most were the relationships he cherished. Probably none more so than his lifelong best friends and hunting “crew”; always his lifelines, the original ride-or-dies, bear tags or not. They perhaps knew him better than anyone else and would gather to tend to a private service, according to his wishes, in the Catherine Creek Unit in Eastern Oregon.
Unwaveringly loyal to family, he imparted many life lessons we each pass along to our own families now. Children, grandchildren, precious siblings, and beloved nieces and nephews are all beneficiaries of his unique perspective on life.
Preceded in death by his wife of twenty-five years, Dena Irene Lively. Forever his mother’s son he will be.
Spencer, Libby and Powell Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
