Richard P. "Dick" Cornell

East Wenatchee, WA

Richard P. "Dick" Cornell, 93, passed away at home on August 21, 2011, following a brief illness. Dick was born in Great Falls, MT on December 10, 1917, to Perrin P. Cornell and Dorothy (Thomas) Cornell as one of five children. In 1918, the family moved to Wenatchee, where Dick lived and attended school, graduating from Wenatchee High School. While in high school, he met his wife, Dorothy, whom he married in 1943. During high school and after, Dick worked as a Bellhop for the Cascadian Hotel. In February 1941, he enlisted in the National Guard as a PFC in the Coast Artillery. During WWII, he was on active duty and stationed in Seattle, Portland, OR and Cold Bay, AK. Following the War, he and Dorothy returned to Wenatchee, where he worked at Wenatchee Petroleum as Office Manager and Accountant. Later, going out on his own as an Accountant, he was among the first to embrace computer technology in accounting practice and had his computers mounted in a Volkswagen bus. Some may remember "On the spot with Dick Cornell." In the late 60's, he joined the staff in his brother's accounting firm. Dick continued to work in accounting until 2010. Those who knew Dick will remember his infectious giggle and laugh. Always quick with a good story, he enjoyed a cigar and an occasional round of golf. However, the main part of his life was devoted to his family and his work. Family gatherings and potluck suppers at Dick and Dorothy's house were occasions to be remembered! In his later years, Dick enjoyed taking his great-grandson, Jeramy, to Mill Bay, where they would play penny slots and discuss what really happened in WWII. Dick was a member of Elks and a member of the Presbyterian Church.

Dick is survived by his wife, Dorothy (Wilson) Cornell; and his daughter, Jeannie Clay (Keith) of Cashmere; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers; two sisters; and his son, Ivan P. Cornell.

At his request, there will be No Service. Memorials in his name may be made to the Disabled American Veterans organization.