Richard Poole

Richard “Dick” “Ba” Poole, a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, passed on October 6, 2023. In days and hours preceding his peaceful passing, Dick listened to family members sharing stories and memories which is what he enjoyed most. He touched the hearts of many.

Dick was born on May 22, 1941, in Klamath Falls, OR, to parents Richard “Dick” and Ruth (Bloom Kristoffersson) Poole. He spent his formative years alongside his brothers, Ron and Jim, and many special cousins, aunts, uncles, and his beloved Swedish immigrant grandpa and grandma, Andy & Caroline Bloom Kristoffersson. Dick attended Henley High School, where he was a champion wrestler.

In 1959, Dick answered his call to serve his country and joined the US Air Force. Weeks prior to his departure, he married Sharon Dale McCormick in a wedding planned in two weeks. The first year of their 61-year marriage, Dick was stationed in Cartwright, Labrador, northeast Canada as a radar specialist. He had the special privilege tracking Santa’s sleigh from the North Pole on Christmas Eve, reporting live, through NORAD, his radar location to children worldwide. Dick demonstrated unwavering dedication to his duty and made a lifelong commitment to support his fellow military service members. His service to his country was a point of pride throughout his life.

Upon his honorable discharge from the Air Force, Dick returned home to Klamath Falls. He and Sharon welcomed two daughters, Karen and Cindy. He was a proud grandfather of 4 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter, who affectionately named him “Ba” that he wore like a badge of honor. Many knew him only as “Ba” which he very much enjoyed.

In 1965 Dick attended OIT and graduated with a degree in surveying. Immediately he was hired by Pacific Gas Transmission as a Pipeline Technician and worked diligently for 30 years. After retirement he maintained close contact with many work friends until their passing.

Beginning in his early years then continuing along with his daughter Karen, Dick truly enjoyed fishing, hunting, scouting, shooting in the great outdoors, and supporting many hunting organizations fundraisers. He especially enjoyed his Poole/Wallin family deer and elk hunting trips locally and in NE Oregon. He often shared stories of their many colorful adventures together.

Dick’s true passion was his family, friends, and pets. His, often daily, routes around town businesses, homes, the ranch, checking in, visiting and swapping stories, and sometimes delivering his latest cooking sample, was always enjoyed by those he frequented. He also cherished every moment spent with his beloved grandchildren, finding immense joy in their laughter, sporting events, and milestones. His wisdom, guidance, and funny stories will be forever treasured by his family and friends.

He learned that his first great-grandchild was expected in late September, and he decided that he was not succumbing to terminal cancer until he met her. On September 21, Quincy arrived, and he got to meet her. His stubborn will got him to that point, and he had achieved his goal on his terms. His life was complete. He passed away two weeks later with his daughter Karen by his side and his family near. His last words were of his happy place with deer, elk, grouse, ducks and his beloved dog, Smokey, at his side.

As remembered by his grandson Caden, “he was the most stubborn, hardheaded, ornery person I knew. He was also one of the most caring, brave, loving, funny, kind, wholehearted, wholesome, and most of all, stoic, individuals that I am proud to say I am related to. You’ll forever be with me, Ba. Fly high and don’t give them too much hell.”

Dick’s passing leaves a void that can never be filled but his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. His kind, brave, stoic nature will be remembered as well as his unwavering devotion and zest for life.

Dick was preceded in death by his beloved grandfather, grandmother, and parents. He is survived by his wife Sharon of 61 years; daughters and son in law, Karen & Bob Crawford of Klamath Falls, Cindy Balin of Steamboat Springs, CO; grandchildren and their spouses Caden Spencer of Albany, OR, Bryce Balin (Kirsten) of Klamath Falls, Trent Balin (Dani) of Klamath Falls, Elise Balin of Torrington, WY; great granddaughter Quincy of Klamath Falls; brothers Ron Poole of Klamath Falls, Jim Poole (Carolyn) of Medford, and nephew Mike Poole (Lori) of Klamath Falls, and nieces Sandy Caldwell of LaPine, OR, Kari Auerbach (Todd) of Napa, ID, Kelly Cox of Woodbridge, CT, and many special cousins.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 21, 2023, 1pm at Ohair-Wards Funeral Chapel, 515 Pine Street, Klamath Falls, Oregon.

Join the family for a Celebration of Life at 3pm, October 21, 2023, at South Poe Valley Grange, 21999 S Poe Valley Rd, Klamath Falls, OR 97603.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.