LUSK – Richard Ellis Wayne Pettyjohn passed away April 9, 2020, in Gillette of natural causes at the age of 46.
He was born on June 23, 1973 in John Day, Ore., to Richard E Pettyjohn and Sharon G Dryer.
Richard grew up in Heppner, Ore. He loved to fish and play basketball. He traveled most of his adult life putting the lessons his Grandpa and Uncle Earl taught him to use. He was an accomplished carpenter and took great satisfaction in working with his hands.
Richard loved to share his love of music; from Chris LeDoux to Eminem. He had an ingrained love for women, whiskey and tall tales. He will be remembered by those who had his heart, Melanee, Aloh, Jamie and Keri.
Over the course of Richard’s life, he battled with addiction. He would be happy to know that his efforts to get sober lead to his ability to help others. On April 11, Donor Alliance stopped Richard’s heart to help three strangers.
Richard is survived by his parents, Sharon, Richard, and bonus mom Jeanneine; his sisters, Cindy and Tara; brothers, Ryan and Colton; children Brandon, Brittany, Dawn, and Wyatt; his grandchildren Alana, Mason and Bell; and many nieces, nephews, and family.
Richard’s ashes will be spread at his favorite spot near Penland Lake by family and friends at a later date.
