WHEREAS, Billy "Bud" Rhynalds, a twelve-year Washington State Department of Transportation maintenance employee, was killed by a falling tree while setting up safety cones to protect motorists from water over the roadway on Highway 203 near Carnation, Washington, during a powerful storm on January 16, 2011; and
     WHEREAS, Mr. Rhynalds came to the Washington State Department of Transportation in 1998 after careers with both the Washington State National Guard and the Weyerhaeuser Company; and
     WHEREAS, Mr. Rhynalds was in a position to retire from his employment, but he truly enjoyed working for the Washington State Department of Transportation so much that he could not be convinced by his family to do so; and
     WHEREAS, Mr. Rhynalds is survived by his wife, Betty Rhynalds, and a large extended family, including children, grandchildren, brothers, and sisters; and
     WHEREAS, Mr. Rhynalds was the 59th Washington State Department of Transportation employee to die on the job during the agency's 105-year history;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Washington State Senate officially recognize Mr. Rhynalds for: His dedication to the safety of the traveling public; his ultimate sacrifice; his deep connection to his family and crew; and his passion for the outdoors; and
     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be immediately transmitted by the Secretary of the Senate to the family of Mr. Rhynalds and to the Secretary of Transportation.