Robert Dee Schwendiman

April 9, 1945 - July 4, 2014

(Robert) Dee Schwendiman, former Pullman, WA resident and businessman, completed this life's journey on July 4, 2014, at the age of 69. Born to John and Naomi Schwendiman, Dee attended Pullman public schools, Rick's College in Idaho, and Washington State University. Dee served in the military from 1968-1970, including a tour of duty in Vietnam. He was an Army Staff Sergeant in the 101st Airborne Division, involved in heavy artillery. Upon returning to Pullman, Dee married Lynn Jackman in June 1970. Together, they owned and operated several businesses, raised three children, enjoyed community and church involvement, plus frequent family travel and boating. In 1998, Dee and Lynn retired, moving from Pullman to acreage South of Spokane, WA. Dee's former hobbies of photography, motorcycling, gardening, sailing, water-skiing and woodworking expanded to include rockhounding, lapidary, RVing and entertaining large groups. Seeking warmth and more sunshine in the winters, Dee and Lynn chose Green Valley, AZ as their yearly destination. Almost daily, Dee enjoyed the Rock Club's facilities, practicing and teaching his cutting and polishing skills. Recently, as Dee and Lynn were down-sizing to a home in Greenacres, WA, Dee received the alarming diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. Choosing quality time surrounded by family and friends, Dee was able to remain home until the last week of his life. Then, the "Comfort Care" he kindly received at both Sacred Heart and the Veteran's Administration Medical Center, was greatly appreciated. Dee is survived by his wife of 44 years, Lynn; daughters, Deanna (Phil) Paragas of Barrington, Il, and Shannon (Paul) Slaughter of Albion, WA; son, Chad (Ann) Schwendiman of Pullman, WA; sister, Karen (Dave) Thaler of Lowell, MI; brothers, Carl (Deni) of Plano, TX, Gary of Tucson, AZ, and Gene (Heather) of Vancouver, WA; five grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Dee was preceded in death by his oldest brother, Leo. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that Dee be remembered through donations to the Washington State Veterans Cemetery, P.O. Box 1511, Medical Lake, WA 99022-1511. In celebration of Dee’s life, a memorial service will be held on Friday, July 11, at 11:00 a.m. at the LDS Church, 40th and Bowdish, in Spokane Valley, WA. Dee requested that all his family and friends enjoy a true potluck lunch together at the church, following the service. Details regarding a committal service at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery near Medical Lake, WA are pending.