Richard Leo Schillinger

Richard (Rick) Leo Schillinger, age 73, passed away on March 19, 2026, in
Bellingham, Washington, due to complications from Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy
Body Dementia.
Rick was born on 11/29/52 to parents Leo and Theresa (Martin) Schillinger. He
was raised in Allen Park, Michigan and attended Cabrini Catholic School from 1st to
12th grade. Rick developed many life-long friendships in Allen Park as well as on his
travels to California, Alaska, and Washington.
Sports were a passion; Rick coached his son’s T-ball, baseball, and basketball
teams. He was an avid baseball fan and enjoyed attending Mariners and
Bellingham Bells games. Rick also cheered for the Seahawks and Kraken. He loved
playing golf at his home course in Sudden Valley as well as traveling to other
courses in Washington, Oregon, California, Arizona, Wisconsin, Michigan, and
Mexico.
Although Rick had many jobs during his life, he valued his identity as an Alaskan
Salmon Troller. His boat, the “Eventide” and the community of Pelican, Alaska
were home for Rick and his family for many years. Rick and family lived in Juneau
for a couple of years and then relocated to Bellingham and the golf course
community of Sudden Valley where they have lived since 1995.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Theresa. He is survived by his
wife, Elaine Maki, and son, Leo Maki Schillinger (Arden Leland), as well as siblings
Kathy (Ron) Hoffman, Lynda (Mark) Knoth, Jeffrey (Teresa) Schillinger, and Lisa
(Ron) Lee.
Rick’s family appreciate condolences from family, friends, and neighbors. Those
wishing to make a monetary contribution are asked to donate to Whatcom
Hospice. They made a significant difference to the quality of life for Rick in his
final days.