Richard 'Dick' Kuykendall, 97

Richard Allen “Dick” Kuykendall, 97, a resident of Coeur d’Alene for over 72 years, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on May 2, 2026, at Schneidmiller Hospice House of North Idaho in Coeur d’Alene.

Dick was born Nov. 18, 1928, in Black Bear, Idaho, to Wayne and Alice Kuykendall. They moved to a farm outside Leland, Idaho, where he attended grade school. The family then moved to Kendrick, Idaho, where he attended Kendrick High School. Dick worked in farming and for the Northern Pacific Railroad and the Potlatch Timber Association during the summers. 

In January 1949, he enlisted in the Navy and served as a Korean War Veteran, spending 18 months in Korean and Japanese waters. He received two battle stars and a Letter of Commendation. After four years in the Navy, he married the love of his life, Lois Ann Platt, on Aug. 7, 1953. In October 1953, they moved to Coeur d’Alene, where he attended North Idaho Junior College Automotive School. Upon graduation, he went to work for the local Ford dealership and worked for the local Ford dealership for 37 years. He was a member of VFW Post 889 and the American Legion.

Dick is survived by four sons: Dale (Carrie Thiele) of Spokane Valley, Duane “Butch” of Post Falls, David (Carrie) of Coeur d’Alene, Jay (Heather) of Molalla, Ore.; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Lois; son Theodore; daughter Debbie; daughter-in-law Sandy “Sam;” brothers Elroy and William; and sister Cleo.

Memorial services will be held Friday, May 15, 2026, at 1 p.m. at Yates Funeral Home, 744 N. Fourth St., Coeur d’Alene, followed by a graveside service with Military Honors at Riverview Cemetery, Coeur d’Alene.

In lieu of flowers, charitable gifts may be made to Hospice of North Idaho, 2290 W. Prairie Ave., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815. (www.hospiceofnorthidaho.org). Please visit Dick’s online memorial at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.