James Richard Blaine

James Richard Blaine, known to his friends and family as Dick or JR, died peacefully in his sleep from complications of diabetes. He is home now with his precious Mother, Father, brother and niece. Dick was born in Franklin, North Carolina on May 15, 1950 to Edwin L. and Amey A. Blaine. They both are deceased along with a brother Larry and Jackie, Larry’s daughter. He was married once, but had no children. He was a great nature photographer. He would spend hours getting just the right shot. He gave these away and also displayed them in his home. He was a wonderful person to his family and friends. He gave away money, cars and homes. His Mom never wanted for anything—now he is with her. Dick graduated in 1968 from Perrydale Highschool with remarkable grades. He and his best friend, Sam Wall went across the United States in a hippie van and another year, he went to Alaska with Gary McCool. He enjoyed hiking, kayaking and sailing on his boat, “The Sundance,” with his nephew Tony. He moored “The Sundance” at the Embarcadero in Newport. He was an avid reader, going through a book a day at times. In 2001, Dick, his Mom and his Sis traveled to Franklin after being gone for 40 years. This trip was a special time shared by the family—revisiting childhood homes and reconnecting with relatives. His great love was attending colleges: Willamette University, Oregon State, University of Oregon, Chemeketa and Linn-Benton. He loved to study geology and had an extensive rock collection. He earned a bachelor’s degree, and was employed as an Application Development Engineer at Hewlett Packard in Corvallis for 29 years. He retired at age 55. Dick always dreamed about having his own private sanctuary. He finally found it—two acres along the Little Lobster River, his “Swampland.” Survivors include his “Sis,” Pat (Kevin); brother Wayne (Odesia) and sister Betty (Charles) many nephews and nieces: Tim (Mel), Tony, Tracy (Heidi), Marty (Michelle), Jerry, Heidi, Marcy, Kelly, Brian (Carrie) and Sara (Steve), Ashleigh, Austin, Madi, Aidan, Ella, Alina and Gabby. At his request, Dick (JR) will be cremated and a memorial service will be announced later.

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James Richard Blaine

May 15, 1950 - May 8, 2013