Richard Barmuta, a lifelong Seattle resident, passed away on September 8, 2026, according to a remembrance shared by family and friends via the West Seattle Blog.
Born on August 16, 1944, at Swedish Hospital, Barmuta was described as a “real Seattleite” whose sunny disposition reportedly matched the 74-degree weather on the day of his birth.
His life was marked by an early encounter with mortality that fundamentally shaped his outlook on the world.
While attending Washington State University at age 19, Barmuta was diagnosed with malignant melanoma.
In 1963, medical limitations meant that following surgery, doctors told him he had only six months to live and advised him to settle his affairs.
Barmuta lived far beyond that prognosis, often remarking that every day following that diagnosis was a gift.
Barmuta’s professional life reflected a belief that all work held inherent value, a principle he learned early from his father at Barmuta Construction.
His resume spanned a vast array of roles across several industries.
- Print operator at Boeing
- Real Estate Broker and investor
- Claims agent for Burlington Northern Freight
- Sheet metal worker for Metro Transit, repairing buses and shelters
- Carpenter for the Washington State Department of Transportation
- Caretaker for Tillicum Village on Blake Island for seven years
He also worked in new construction, boat and engine repair, and even cleaning toilets, approaching each task with what his family described as a grateful heart.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Barmuta was a man of many adventurous pursuits and musical interests.
He married Katrina Strassburg on September 18, 1977, aboard the Goodtime II at buoy Tango in the middle of Puget Sound.
The couple raised two sons, Karl and Paul, and remained married for 49 years.
Barmuta’s personal history included secret seaplane flying lessons at age 16, competing in Super Midget race cars, and serving as a skipper for various vessels.
One of his notable maritime achievements involved refurbishing the Jasper, a rare 1923 Lake Union Dreamboat.
His musical tastes were broad, ranging from the accordion and slide trombone to the acoustic guitar, though he famously noted an exception for rap music.
He favored performers such as the Kingston Trio, Eric Clapton, Mark Knofler, and The Traveling Wilburys.
In his final days, he found enjoyment in musical performances at Aegis of West Seattle and through digital streaming services.
Barmuta passed away quietly while holding the hand of his wife.
He is survived by Katrina Barmuta, his sons Karl and Paul, his sister Kathy Butler and her husband Cy, and his nieces Wendy Cranfill and Lisa Minken with her husband Justin Minken.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Linda Barmuta Cranfill.
Barmuta is interred at Evergreen Washelli in Seattle.
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