Richard Napier

“In quietness and in confidence shall be your strength,” Isaiah 43:1.

Richard Lee Napier, 66, of Libby, passed away of natural causes on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2015, in Libby. Richard was born in Rochester, Minn., on Oct. 24, 1948 to Bert and Edith (Schultz) Napier. He attended Libby public schools. He was baptized at the age of 12, finding our Lord Jesus, accepting Him into his heart and receiving a Certificate of Baptism. “In Him was life and the life was the light of men.” John 1:4.

Richard left school in March 15, 1966, completing the 10th grade, to join the United States Marine Corps as an infantryman. While in the Marine Corps, he received his GED in 1967. He served in various places, which included South Vietnam.  He was awarded the honor and received a Purple Heart on Oct. 21, 1967. He was honorably discharged March 20, 1968. He then joined the United States Navy on June 15, 1968, becoming an aircraft mechanic and working on fighter jets. He was honorably discharged March 2, 1970. Remaining in the service of his country, he joined the National Guard Reserves. Once he was no longer active duty, he started to drive a 50-ton pay hauler for road construction, which prompted him to graduate from the United System Truck Driving School in Indianapolis, Ind., in 1972. Working for various companies driving commercial trucks, he was endorsed for tankers, doubles, triples as well as passenger trucks. In 1978, he moved to Bremerton, Wash., where he received his welding degree.He worked and repaired ships in the naval shipyards.

In 1981 he returned to Libby and worked driving truck, being a firefighter and logging. Rick dealt effectively with people, working hard and doing the job right the first time. In 1992, he joined the teamsters trucking school to enhance his trucking experiences.

He was an active member of the Libby Veterans of Foreign Wars and Color Guard for many years, helping out where he was needed most. He was loved by many for his loyalty and dedication. He also served as Commander and Chief for three years.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Barbara Napier.

Survivors include his sister Jeanie Hoveland; brother Roger Napier; daughter, Kerry Cottingham and son, Daniel Napier; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A wake will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb.1 at the Libby VFW. “Fear not for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; Thou art mine.”  (Isaiah 43:1)  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.schnackenbergfh.com.