Dick Humphrey

The aptly dubbed “Golden Boy” of Anchorage - Richard “Dick” Greer Humphrey - passed away peacefully at home in Grass Valley, Calif., in his beloved Christy’s arms, on June 15, 2024. Their treasured pups, Lily and Kobi, were also by his side. He’d rallied lung cancer for a year and a half, hardly affecting his lungs, doing fairly well considering the extensive treatment he was enduring. He was enjoying life pretty much to the fullest, with it slowing him down yet not dampening his zest for life, still tending to the home projects he loved. Life took a turn, suddenly and ferociously on April 27, 2024, when the cancer metastasized to his brain and bones. He handled this whirlwind turnabout with heroic courage and determination, although suffered greatly. Respect and admiration for him only grew during this time… He and Christy fought every angle, yet the cancer was relentless. The fight required heavy pain treatment that, thankfully, finally allowed him a couple days of peace before transitioning. His last whispered words were, “I love you,” and his last bite was pizza with “the” perfect crust. His grasp never weakened - holding his treasured glass purple heart in the small black silk bag he felt would protect it. It’s still protected, Baby, and will be - until my time comes… “Dick” to most, but “Greer” to his Christy, was 68 years young. He joined the Army when he was just 19; stationed in Anchorage, Alaska. Afterwards he chose to call Alaska his home, and worked mostly for paving companies. He met his beloved wife, Terri, and married in the late ‘80s. They had three wonderful decades together, sharing their mutual love of fishing, hunting, their beloved kitties Daisy and Josie, beer and, of course, his never ending gardening venture. His love of cooking for friends and family was one of his greatest pleasures, beyond fishing! Dick’s accomplishments with his work were to be admired by all who knew him in the workplace, and his strong work ethic started at a very young age. His attention to detail and wisdom when it came to the mighty dollar seemed to be something he was born with, and made for some hysterical stories! His personality was indescribable; anyone he crossed paths with became a dear friend. That said, he sweetly chose to keep his very personal life private. The endearing stories of how he taught and provided opportunities to people of all ages is growing daily! Keep them coming… Dick and Terri retired and moved to California in 2016. Their intent was to care for Terri’s aging mother, and later retire in a town on the Central Coast in California. Sadly, cancer stole Terri’s life in 2018, thus Dick’s sites changed. Fate and a mutual love of Alaska brought Greer and Christy together in 2020, along with shared interests and values. They explored Alaska in fun ways that Greer hadn’t known, and Christy also opened him up to hiking, which he loved and quickly became adept at. He loved challenging himself! Haha - other than rock scrambling up mountains, which he grumpily said was insane, thus refused! Those who were lucky enough to know Dick, and those numbers are high, knew of his extreme generosity and kindness. He was always there for a friend, and even foe, up to a point. He gave unconditionally, never expecting the same in return. He was a jewel that will be forever treasured in the hearts of those who loved him. Richard Greer Humphrey is survived by his partner, their two cherished pups, along with siblings, in-laws, nieces and nephews and his countless friends scattered across the U.S. Always with us; his presence is strong and alive in our hearts, home, land, air and of course - water! And Honey, our hummingbirds are “talking” to me daily. Well, guess what, cancer? You didn’t win. Greer’s incredibly strong constitution and spirit are present; he’s peaceful now and comforting those of us who are painfully aching for his presence. Your love lives on, my Greery!