Dick Shaw, Pioneering Washington Grape Grower, Dies at 84

Dick Shaw, one of the largest grape growers in Washington State, died at age 84.

He had been growing grapes for more than 40 years, beginning with a 100-acre vineyard. When he died, he farmed more than 3,500 acres in seven appellations.

Before he was 30, he had been one of the founders of the Bank of Tacoma, where he was chairman of the board. Beginning in 1981, he planted 100 acres of winegrapes in Mattawa. Today that vineyard has grown to 1,250.

Shaw enjoyed working, and worked almost until he died.

He is survived by his wife Wendy, their son, two daughters, his brother, a nephew, two nieces, and three grandchildren.