Richard Charles “Dick” Bull, a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on Sunday, Jan. 5, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on Nov. 25, 1934, in Cedaredge, Colo., Dick grew up on the family’s cattle ranch, where he developed a strong work ethic. For his first two years of school, he and his older sister and brother road horseback to a two-room schoolhouse. Then that school closed, and they transferred to the “big” school in Cedaredge for the rest of their public education. There he distinguished himself as a student leader and athlete, graduating in 1953.
Dick’s passion for learning led him to Colorado State University, where he earned a bachelor’s and master’s degree in animal science. After careful thought, instead of then returning to the family ranch, he chose to pursue a Ph.D. in animal nutrition at Oregon State University, thus cementing his career in the agricultural sciences of higher education. A position opened at the University of Idaho, which seemed like a good fit — at least for a while. That “while” turned into a lifetime career, teaching students, performing research and working with livestock producers.
It was during his time at Colorado State he met the love of his life, Barbara. The couple married in 1959 and shared 65 wonderful years together, raising two children.
A man of immense warmth and generosity, Dick was a cornerstone of the Moscow community. Known for his passionate support of the Idaho Vandals, he operated the basketball scoreboard for 34 years and recorded NCAA offensive football game stats for 40 years. He truly seemed to know everyone in Moscow, leaving a legacy of kindness and camaraderie.
In addition to his devotion to family and sports, Dick was deeply involved in community service. He was a proud member of the Moscow Central Lions Club, the Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors, the Moscow First United Methodist Church and the Shriners, contributing tirelessly to the organizations that mattered to him.
Dick is survived by his wife Barbara; his children, Debbie Sanders (husband Bob Sanders) and Mike Bull (wife Cindy Bull); and his grandchildren, Ben Sanders, Ashley Sanders Leberman, Bryce Bull and Aaron Bull. He is also survived by five great-grandchildren.
A celebration of Dick’s life will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 31, at the Moscow First United Methodist Church, 322 E. Third St., Moscow, with a reception to follow at the 1912 Center (which is across the street from the church).
In lieu of flowers, family suggest donations to the Richard and Barbara Bull Family Vandal Athletic Scholarship Endowment, the Gritman Medical Center Endowment or the trustees of the Moscow First United Methodist Church.
Short’s Funeral Chapel of Moscow is in charge of arrangements and condolences may be left at shortsfuneralchapel.com.
