Richard 'Rick' Laws, 75

Richard "Rick" Arlie Laws passed away peacefully at his home in Rathdrum, Idaho, on the evening of June 5, 2023, with his wife, Paula Laws, and his pup, Sully, by his side. He was 75 years old. He was born in Spokane, Wash., on Aug. 1, 1947. He was the only child of Arlie Laws and Mary Laws.

Rick is preceded in death by his father and mother, Arlie and Mary Laws, two half-sisters, aunts and uncles and two stepsons, Jake Hartley and Eric Payne. Rick is survived by his wife, Paula Laws, his daughter, Cassandra Laws, and his son, Richard Laws II, and four grandsons, Casey Neis, Cody McHargue, Jacob Burrows and Brandon Branch. Rick also raised two stepdaughters, Angela Woeck and Jennifer Hartley.

Having grown up in a military family, Rick graduated high school in Iceland, in 1968. He then enlisted and served in the United States Air Force from May 1968 to May 1972, then in the reserves until 1974.

He was a naturally talented musician, playing drums in an adult group starting at the age of 10. He played in several bands such as The Season Street, Karisma, the Don Sneed Affair and Dave Bunker. Before returning back to the iron/steel industry, he spent three years as an EMT and CNA at Deaconess Hospital. Eventually starting his own business, as an estimator for a structural steel company out of Eugene, Ore.

He loved to debate. Even if he knew he was wrong, he'd debate. He enjoyed living in Rathdrum and decided to get involved in the community. He volunteered for the Planning and Zoning Commission. He spent six years on the P&Z Commission. He loved music, fishing, hunting, watching hockey, camping and riding ATVs. He loved spending time with family and friends and the salty air of the Oregon Coast.

Life celebration is scheduled Aug. 12, 1-3 p.m. at Majestic Park in Rathdrum, Idaho. A picnic lunch will be provided. Flowers, cards and donations can be sent to Paula Laws 14205 Cascade St. Rathdrum, ID 83858.