Richard Muns Appling Jr. Obituary (1947 - 2019)

The hiss and sizzle of pancake batter hitting the griddle broke the reverie of his morning. His children were asleep in their beds and a slow smile appeared when he thought of them. They were about to get what was coming to them. He flipped the last few pancakes, double checked the table settings, and walked over to the stereo. A simple, delicate, twist of the dial and the dulcet tones of Hank Williams Jr. pervaded the air at 10 times their original volume. The rustling of bedclothes and the stamping of feet accompanied the first sips of morning coffee. Richard Muns Appling Jr. knew how to herd the wildlife, at home and in the forest. Born in Tacoma, Washington on July 13, 1947, Richard was always one to work hard and play hard. Called Tricky Dick for his quick wit, charm, and inspiring salesmanship; Richard could sell a two-wheeled bicycle to a unicyclist. His ambition and charisma saw him through the Marines which he joined at 17, the trials and tribulations of Vietnam, the birth of his first child Timothy John Appling (and his untimely death), keeping the house in ship-shape despite indoor water fights with the kids, each year's hunting and planting season, the worn our heels of well-loved cowboy boots, and everything else his 71 years held. Those who remain to flip perfect pancakes, inspire water fights no matter the season, and think about Tricky Dick every time they're up to no good are his children Gary Appling, Deanna Puhrmann, and Rebecca Carpenter; his siblings John Appling and Linda Herrig; and everyone who called him friend. In recognition of his service to our country Richard will be buried at Tahoma National Cemetery at 10 am on Monday June 24, 2019. All are welcome to the National Cemetery to witness the committal and Military Honors. Please arrive 15-30 minutes prior to the service so that the cemetery can plan accordingly.