WHEREAS, The men and women of the Washington State Department of
Transportation work around the clock, in all conditions and all over
the state, to protect the people of Washington; and
WHEREAS, Billy Rhynalds was a 12-year veteran of the Washington
State Department of Transportation; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Rhynalds joined the Washington State Department of
Transportation after distinguished careers with the Washington National
Guard, Weyerhaeuser, and his own tree removal business; and
WHEREAS, In the course of his career with the Washington State
Department of Transportation, Billy Rhynalds frequently volunteered to
work extra shifts to ensure public safety on the roadways; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Rhynalds' concern for the safety of the citizens of
Washington was abundantly evident during times of flooding and heavy
snow; and
WHEREAS, On Sunday, January 16, 2011, Billy Rhynalds answered the
call to aid the Department of Transportation in clearing flooded roads
outside of his regular working hours and was subsequently killed in the
line of duty; and
WHEREAS, Billy Rhynalds continued his career out of a love for his
work even though he was eligible for retirement; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Rhynalds exemplifies the highest virtues of bravery,
dedication, and service to his fellow citizens; and
WHEREAS, Billy Rhynalds is survived by his wife, Betty Rhynalds;
two children, Aimee Sherrill and Darin Rhynalds; three grandchildren;
five sisters; and three brothers; and
WHEREAS, Billy Rhynalds' commitment to his family, the Department
of Transportation, and his fellow citizens of Washington State was both
remarkable and commendable;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives
recognize Billy Rhynalds' extraordinary legacy of service and
dedication to his community, and extend its deepest condolences to his
family and friends; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be
immediately transmitted by the Chief Clerk of the House of
Representatives to Betty Rhynalds and to the Washington State
Department of Transportation.