Richard Alan Frey, a beloved member of the Aurora, Colorado community, passed away in the presence of his loving family on Tuesday, April 30th, 2024, at the age of 81 after losing his battle to liver cancer. His profound influence touched countless lives and he leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, honor, and captivating storytelling that will forever be cherished.
Richard was born on April 6th, 1943 to George and Betty Frey in Dixon, Illinois. Growing up in a household with three siblings, he navigated the challenges and joys of living out his early years with his large family. While specific details of his childhood remain veiled in time, these formative years of his life instilled in him a deep sense of resilience and determination that defined his character.
At the young age of 16, Richard joined the military and served his country with honor and distinction. He devoted 22 years to the United States Air Force, earning various medals of commendation, good conduct, and outstanding service. Richard's unwavering commitment to his country was a testament to his character, reflecting his deep-rooted values of duty, honor, and service.
In 1960, during his first military assignment at Minot AFB in North Dakota, Richard and Vernetta Boomer met at a local bowling alley during a double-date with friends. Their connection blossomed into love, leading to their marriage in 1962 at the Zion Lutheran Church in downtown Minot, North Dakota. The union was blessed with two children, Richard Alan and Lori Lynn. Following his retirement from the military, Richard embraced his life in Colorado with his wife and children where he established a fulfilling career in the postal service from which he retired at the age of 62.
Richard was strong-willed and stubborn, and yet every new person that met him, loved him. They were enthralled by his wicked sense of humor and boisterous personality. While alive, he could be found at one of his favorite stops including Señor Ric’s (which he comically coined Senior Ric’s) and Bob’s Bar at Harrah’s in Las Vegas where everyone knew his name and stopped to chat with him about the Packers, Broncos, or eagerly listen to one of his hilarious life stories. Every conversation made him a treasured companion and a source of endless entertainment for all who knew him.
Richard is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Vernetta, along with his children Richard and Lori, daughter-in-law Michelle (Micky), son-in-law Frank, grandchildren Tanner, Carson, Kelcie, Cole, and the newest addition to the family, great-granddaughter Delanie.
Richard's journey will be honored with a visitation on Wednesday, May 8th, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Olinger Hampden Mortuary & Cemetery, located at 8600 East Hampden Ave, Denver, CO 80231. Friends, family, and all whose lives were touched by Richard are invited to pay their respects and celebrate the life of this unforgettable man.
Following the visitation, a funeral service will be held from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at the same location. This will be a time for reflection, sharing memories, and finding solace in the love Richard shared with those around him.
A graveside service will then take place from 2:00 PM to 2:30 PM at Fort Logan Cemetery- 4400 W Kenyon Ave, Denver, CO 80236, where Richard will be laid to rest with military honors. This final farewell will be an opportunity for those who knew him to bid a heartfelt goodbye and honor his memory in a peaceful setting.
Everyone is welcome to join the family at Richard and Vernetta’s home for repast after the service at 14045 E Grand Ave, Aurora CO, 80015.
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