Obituary of Richard Kurtis Layes

Kurt was born March 10, 1979 in Everett, Washington and entered into eternal rest on October 19, 2006 at Franciscan Hospice House in Tacoma, Washington. Kurt is survived by his wife Suzy and sons Dustin and Tyler; his mother Luci Buchholz, (Joe); his father Bob and wife Chelsea Layes; Brothers: Rob and wife Jeanine Layes; and Aaron Layes (Ariel). He also leaves behind his nieces Oceana, Jessica, Jamie, and Tiffany; nephews, Cole, Michael, Tigger, T.J., and Danny; Several Aunts and Uncles and many cousins in Washington, California, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Florida. Kurt graduated from Christian Liberty Academy (via home school curriculum) June of 1997. He entered the Army in May of 1998. Kurt served in the Army until 2002, when he joined the inactive ready reserves. Kurt then drove tow truck for A-1 towing in Baker, California until he decided to spend more time with his family. He went to work as a correctional officer at Cornell Prison in Baker, California where he worked until April this year (2006) after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. Kurt experienced treatment for the cancer until September (2006) this year when it became clear he was losing his battle. Kurt came home to Tacoma, Washington on October 1, 2006 and was entered into Hospice care through Franciscan Hospice on October 4, 2006. Kurt was a man of honor. He honored his wife, his children, his mother, and father, his church, and his God. Kurt was extremely grateful for all those people who helped to support his family from April until now. Especially Mike Toohey and people at the Everett Marina who paid many of the bills, Aunt Pat from California that paid the space rent for the trailer, the many people that Kurt and Suzy met at Loma Linda Cancer center, A-1 Towing in Baker, and Cornell prison employees especially “the wandering Tuckers” for the loan of the RV. These people allowed Suzy to care for Kurt and fed and housed this family from April till now. Kurt wanted you all to know that he was eternally grateful and will be petitioning on your behalf at the throne of our Father in heaven. Kurt was also very grateful and wanted thanks to go to all those who prayed for him and his family, you made the transition from this life to the next so much easier. Kurt was extremely thankful to everyone who came to see him when he returned to Washington in October, and wanted you all to know that he appreciated your time and compassion. A Memorial of Kurt’s life will be held at New Life Center in Everett, Washington at 12:00noon on Thursday October 26, 2006. Graveside services will be held at Tahoma National Cemetery with a full military burial at 12:30 on Friday October 27, 2006. Please do not bring flowers; monetary remembrances can be made to Suzy Layes or Luci Buchholz to help with funeral expenses. Arrangements by Edwards Memorial Center 253-566-1008