With the unexpected passing of Galen Richardson of the Monroe Correctional Complex, we mourn the loss of a highly respected officer who was always looking after his co-workers and always had an encouraging word to share.

“He went out of his way to make you feel welcome and part of the team,” said Dave Roberts, an officer at MCC and member of the Union’s Executive Board.

Richardson was a retired Army medic. He got his start at DOC in 2000 at MCC, transferred to McNeil Island, and returned to MCC in 2010.

He was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He took care of his co-workers, bringing them hot meals on long shifts and bottled water on hot days to keep them hydrated.

Richardson was active in training and mentoring new members. He took people under his wing and made them feel at home in a tough, unforgiving environment.

“All of the years with DOC, he never got discouraged. He was a bright spot in your day,” Roberts said.

Our deep, heartfelt condolences to Officer Richardson’s family, friends, and all of his co-workers at MCC. He will be sorely missed.