Richard John Nordquist

Richard John Nordquist passed away at 1:45PM, July 3, 2012. He was born October 25, 1925 in Salt Lake City, UT to Albert C. and Marjorie O. Nordquist. He grew up in Ogden, UT, graduating from Ogden High School in 1943. He enlisted in the Navy in August, 1943, was trained as an operating room technician, participated in several Pacific Island invasions as a medic helping to care for casualties, and was honorably discharged in April, 1946, being not yet 21 years old. On June 1, 1950, he married a childhood friend, Loretta Mae Tatro, from the Baptist church they both attended. Together they used his G.I. education benefits to pursue his Doctor of Medical Dentistry (DMD) degree from the University of Oregon Dental School, graduating in 1955. He and Loretta moved to Medford, OR where he practiced general dentistry for 35 years, retiring in 1990. Richard ("Dick") loved dogs, raising and training several black Labradors, a couple of which qualified for national field trials. In his fifties, he revived an earlier interest in athletics and competed in Masters Track and Field events, mainly Decathlon, winning multiple national championships over the next few years. He also volunteered as an assistant coach in Phoenix High school's track and field program. During his retirement years, he enjoyed playing trombone in community bands and volunteered time for the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program's respite program. Richard and Loretta had four sons, Peter, Russell, Scott, and Eric, all of whom survive him, along with ten grandchildren. A memorial service was held at Hillcrest Memorial Park Chapel, 2201 N. Phoenix Rd.,Medford, OR. on Friday, July 13, 2012. Hillcrest Memorial Park & Mortuary, Medford, OR. are in care of arrangements.
Thank you to all who attended.
www.hillcrestmortuary.com