Clarence Richard "Dick" Preston Nov. 13, 1931-March 3, 2017 Clarence Richard "Dick" Preston of Stanwood, Washington, died on March 3, 2017. A life-long Western Washingtonian, Dick was born on November 13, 1931, to Clarence "Jiggs" and Urma Preston and grew up in West Seattle. After graduating West Seattle High School in 1950, Dick signed up to serve with the in the United States Air Force during the Korean conflict. Stationed in Roswell, New Mexico, he met the love of his life, Alis Marie Stump (deceased, 2014), and they were happily married for 59 years. After his military service, Dick and Alis moved back to the Seattle area, settling in Stanwood, Washington, on Lake Goodwin to raise their family. A life-long tinkerer, Dick worked for GTE/Verizon his entire career as a telephone repairman. In addition to being your phone guy, Dick had many hobbies and talents. In school, Dick played saxophone in the band, and to his pleasure, Dick's talent was passed down to his grandsons, Jason Potter, Drew Preston, and Tony Preston. Dick was also an avid sailor for many years. He was a charter member of Milltown Sailing Association and enjoyed many years of racing around Port Gardner Bay with his son, Cully, and daughter, Kim, on both Dick's San Juan 28, the Big "R", and Cully's Martin 242, Ragtime Jazz. In his later years, Dick stayed busy with woodworking, creating beautiful furniture pieces, crabbing at nearby Camano Island, and tending bonfires on his property. He loved animals, was gregarious, quick-witted, and always ready with a sly grin! Dick is survived by his daughter, Kimberlee Potter (Brian); sons, Chuck Preston (Michelle) and Cully Preston (Anne); and his grandchildren, Jason Potter, Cory Preston, and Drew and Tony Preston. The family wishes to express their sincere thanks to Dick's neighbors, family, and friends, and especially to the staff of The Cottages in Marysville, who partnered to provide exemplary care to help keep him comfortable over the past year. At Dick's request, no services are planned. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to Alzheimer's research at alz.org in memory of Dick.