H. Sargent Obituary

After a courageous 33-year battle with rheumatoid arthritis, Alan Sargent, 68, passed away on April 19, 2006, his adoring wife Durelle holding him close.

Alan was born in Denver, Colorado, on Nov. 11, 1937, to Homer and Lorraine Sargent. The family followed the construction boom, moving to the Tri-Cities in the early 40s and making Richland their home. Alan graduated from Richland High School in 1956, attended the UW, then joined the Air Force in 1958. While stationed in Albuquerque NM, he met a beautiful Texan named Durelle, who became his wife on Nov. 26, 1960. They spent the next 45 years sharing the kind of love one only reads about in fairy tales. Words can never express the devotion and adoration we all witnessed throughout their lives.

After completing his service in the Air Force, Alan and Durelle brought their family north spending most of the next 30 years in Richland and Kennewick, WA. Alan was a member of the Independent Insurance Agents Association, working as a broker with Spencer Kinney Insurance, and later opened Sargent Insurance Agency. He was a long-time member of the Richland Kiwanis. When arthritis forced his retirement, Alan and Durelle traveled by motor home until it became no longer possible. In 2002, they moved to Vancouver, WA.

Alan enjoyed fly-tying, camping, hiking and rafting. He loved Washington State and didn't feel the need to go any further to see nature's beauty. He belonged to the Northwest Steelheaders Association, fishing being his favorite outdoor activity. Alan casting his line smoothly over the water was a magnificent sight. He made the fly dance and the fish jump for joy.

Alan enjoyed reading and painting, and was known for writing silly poems. He used the computer as a way of staying in touch, reconnecting with many friends through the RHS Sandstorm Web site. The 'gambler' in him loved a good game of poker and the sports fan cheered on the Mariners.

Alan was a tenderhearted man with a wonderful sense of humor who always saw the best in people and never met a stranger. His strength, compassion and dignity were admired by all. Always the optimist, when his body would fail him, he would remind us, 'As long as I've got my mind and the mind still works, I can do anything.'

Alan is survived by his true love Durelle, and faithful companion Joker, both of Vancouver; daughter, Brenda Coxen, grandsons, E.A., Kristopher and Andy Coxen, great-grandchildren, Eric and Sofia all of Kennewick; daughter, Nancy Hilmes, granddaughters, Hayley, Kelsey and Mackenzie all of Kennewick; and granddaughter, Darcie Hale, Indianapolis, IN; daughter, Laura Sargent, grandson, Cassidy Sargent of Vancouver; and son-in-law, Joseph Neu of San Francisco CA. He is also survived by brother, Richard Sargent, Yelm WA, and sisters, Barbara Sargent, Roseville, CA, Margie Weinmeister, Spokane WA, Judy Scott, Green Valley, AZ and Linda Evans, Portland, OR, as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their families.

At Alan's request there will be no services. In lieu of flowers please make donations to the charity of your choice.