Dick Molen, 78

Richard Eugene Molen, 78, of Post Falls, died Sept. 8, 2011, at the Spokane Veterans Home. He and his wife of 35 years, Janice Molen, both from California, lived in North Idaho for the past 12 years.

Molen was born Oct. 2, 1932, in Santa Barbara, Calif. His parents were Edward Molen and Mary Ann Gough, of Santa Barbara.

Molen grew up in Los Angeles, attending high school there, and graduating from UCLA with a degree in physical education. He was a star athlete in school.

He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and also played football in the service.

He played linebacker for the San Diego Chargers for three years.

He ran several marathons later in life, including the Boston Marathon in 1981. Both Dick and Janice completed a marathon on top of the Great Wall of China.

The two also climbed several of the world's highest peaks.