This message is from William Back, Office of the Solicitor, Portland, 
For Rick, family always came first. Rick was always ready to update us on family matters, his and Donna’s plans, and what was happening with the kids and grandkids. I remember many a late afternoon phone call with Rick—other workers already gone home---talking about work and family matters, laughing together about one incident or another. It was also true, even though Donna and the kids always came first, that Rick had several other “families” including “church” and “National Park Service” families. Those of us in this latter category grew to feel that we were working together for the common good and that our accomplishments were as a group, and it was clear to us all that Rick cared deeply for both the people as well as the NP resources. 

The Portland Solicitor’s Office could always count on Rick’s extensive knowledge of the facts, policy, and law; Rick’s research ability and intelligence; his negotiation and people skills; all of which contributed to a better outcome. Rick’s ability to discern what was needed to move forward allowed NPS on many occasions to take advantage of an opportunity it may not have had without his involvement. What we were doing was for the benefit to the National Park Service and for present and future generations of Americans—whether we were resisting rapacious mining claims at Shi Shi Beach (OLYM), or protecting the view-shed at Whitman Mission NM or Ebey’s Landing, or keeping trespassers off Lake Roosevelt NRA, or removing the fish-killing Elwha dams, or countless other significant NPS issues—the National Parks were in good hands with Rick Wagner and his team at work. His life’s work is a model of public service of the highest order, and that is worth repeating: his life’s work is a model of public service of the highest order---and we were all honored to have been able to work with and for Rick, and to be included as part of Rick's NPS family. With Love & Respect. 

Rick was a kind and loving elder of the Lord's church.  He always greeted visitors and members alike with a big smile.  His thoughts shared in bible class were always inspirational.  We will miss his leadership and friendship.

Gentle Christian giant.  Those are the words I would use to describe Rick.  He was my elder, my brother in  Christ, and my friend.   I always felt supported and encouraged by him, not just from the words he would say, but the caring look or gentle touch he would give.  They say you may forget what one says, but you’ll never forget how they made you feel.  I’ll never forget how Rick made me feel.  He fought the good fight and gave it all he had; may he now rest in peace.  I’m praying for all of those in his family and church family who mourn alongside me this great loss.  

Rick was a kind, gentle soul and cared so much for people, and especially the church at Kirkland.   He talked about history and his past frequently.  One day, after I had spoken on the subject of heaven,  Rick ran up to me excitedly and said, "I haven't been to heaven, but I've been to Oklahoma!"  I said, I didn't know you were a three dog night fan!  He said absolutely!  Then he said:  "Jeremy was a bull frog, he's a good friend of mine!"  I like that one two.  I told him I liked "Celebrate, celebrate...." and he filled in the rest... "Dance to the music!"   It was a fun moment and showed the lighter side of Rick.  He was a special treasure to be around! 

I worked with Rick at the National Park Service for over 20 years.   He was always one of my favorite co-workers and there was no one I respected more.   You could tell Rick was a great guy to work for —and with — when his entire Lands Division was one of the few groups that had no turnover.    Rick was a good friend and I will miss him greatly.    RIP my friend.

Into each career a few people will enter that exemplify professionalism and integrity - Rick was one of those people. It was a great honor to work on some significant and often difficult land acquisitions with him. Rest in Peace my friend - you leave behind a legacy of parklands protected for future generations.

A message from Dan Sakura, Vice-President-Resource Management, National Park Foundation:

Rick was a great man-he had a passion for land conservation and a gentle manner and professionalism.  He was a mentor to me and I'm glad I had the chance to work with him and Mark Elsbree on so many projects-Lewis and Clark, Minidoka, City of Rocks and San Juan NHP-Mitchell Hill.  His legacy will live on in the lands, waters, historic places, recreation areas and outstanding scenic resources. He embodied the best of NPS's lands team-working quietly behind the scenes to make a difference for the American people and visitors from any countries.  I will miss him and his creativity and kindness.

A message from Mark Elsbree, Senior Vice-President Western Region, The Conservation Fund:
Rick-and our work together over many years-means a great deal to me personally and professionally.  I keep the photo attached here close at hand. City of Rocks, Idaho-Rick at work.  He was an incredible man and a very special person, and I will always admire his public service, dedication, creativity and his love of challenges...of all kinds. These are attributes that I will carry with me for the rest of my days. I will miss Rick deeply-a lot of us will-and yet, there is some comfort in the amazing legacy that he left us of protected lands in our National Parks. Special places, where many, many people will take their family's for generations to experience and enjoy what, in many ways, is the very best of America. Please accept my heart-felt condolences, and please do pass them along to Donna and the entire family. I hope, in time, some good will come of this great loss.  With deep sympathy and high esteem.  Mark

Please accept our prayers and deep sympathies for your loss.  Rick was a part of my many special memories from my childhood when our families  were close.  His love for his family and his life's work were just a couple of his many accomplishments.  May you and your family find comfort in his wonderful memories.

My heart goes out to all of you during this difficult time.  No words make this an easy time.  He touched many lives and made many friends along the way.  Our family has lost someone very special when we lost Rick.  Keeping your family in my prayers

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Rick Wagner

21 décembre 1945 – 18 février 2020

Sunset Hills Memorial Park & Funeral Home

Montrez votre soutien

Envoyez Vos
Condoléances

Partager
L'avis De Décès

Obtenir les mises à jour

Prestations de Service