G. Kent Dyekman, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away at Kadlec Medical Center in Richland, Washington on February 18, 2015. With family by his side, he died peacefully due to complications from chronic leukemia. He was 77.

Kent was born on May 17, 1937 in Fort Collins, CO to his parents Gordon and Beth Dyekman. He was raised on the family farm founded by his father in Loveland and had fond memories of attending his early education in the "Little Red School House."

He met his wife, E. Louise McWethy, at Colorado State University and married in 1958. He graduated from college with a Mechanical Engineering degree in 1959 and moved to Richland, Washington. Kent worked in the nuclear industry and was proud to have helped design and build the only remaining functioning nuclear power plant in the Pacific Northwest today. He retired in 1992 and enjoyed spending time at their cabin as well as annual trips to Hawaii. He loved sports including supporting the Seattle Seahawks and Mariners. He relished the shared passion with his grandson, Zac, by attending an annual Seattle Mariners game for Zac's birthday each year. He also enjoyed watching his grandkids play soccer when possible.

Survived by his wife of 56 years, Louise Dyekman; children Alan Dyekman, Dale (Sarah) Dyekman, Tracy (Charlie) Jokisch; three grandchildren Lexy, Zac and Casey; brothers Tom and Ted Dyekman. He leaves family and friends forever thankful for his honesty, high standards, compassion, generosity, sense of humor and endless storytelling ability with incredible memory. He led by example with a strong work ethic and was quick to lend a helping hand.

A Memorial service will take place 3 PM April 11, 2015 at Central United Protestant Church in Richland with a reception to follow. All are welcome to celebrate Kent's life. In lieu of flowers, please donate to:

Second Harvest TriCities, send checks to PO Box 3068, Pasco, Wa 99302 or online at www.2-harvest.org

Kadlec Clinic Hematology and Oncology, 7360 W Deschutes Ave, Kennewick, WA 99336