Richard Thomas Thorslund died peacefully at home Sept. 22, 2002, after a brief and brave journey with lung cancer.

He was born on July 18, 1947, in Seattle to Ernie and Agnes Thorslund.

His life was one of complete non-attachment to material wealth and possession, outside of giving what he would earn through his labors for the benefit of others. He was a wandering sheetrocker, philosopher and orator extraordinaire. His ability to see beyond society’s veil was both his greatest gift and burden. One of his favorite quotes, one written by C.S. Lewis, sums up his life, “You and I have need of the strongest spell that can be found to wake us from the evil enchantment of worldliness.”

Mr. Thorslund is survived by a sister, Judy Thorslund, and her children Les and Seth; a sister, Susie Richards, and a brother-in-law, Chris Richards, and their children, Daniel and Hope.

The family wishes to express its deep appreciation to all who have extended their love and support to our brother throughout the years, including the many friends of Bill Wilson, Bread and Roses House of Hospitality in Olympia, the staff and students of Langley Middle School, Michael and Norma Jean, Tim H., his refound friend Maggie Seymour, Dr. Haig Fox, the nurses of Island Home Health and Hospice and Whidbey General Hospital oncology department. We know your love and support truly made a difference.

In memory of Mr. Thorslund, the family asks people to take time to share gifts, time and talents with youth. There will be memorial celebration at the family home at Shore Meadows at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25.