Richard Allen Skarsten

Richard Allen Skarsten, age 70, passed away Monday July 3, 2017 in Carrollton, TX. Richard also known as Rich, Richie, Rick and Dick (just kidding, don't ever call him that) was born March 17, 1947 in Manhattan, New York City, NY to Olav and Terese (Berge) Skarsten. He was an only child who enjoyed sports, school and dating. He graduated from the Trinity School in Manhattan in 1965 and made his way from the Big Apple to the Big Easy. He attended Centenary College in Shreveport, LA and graduated in 1971. During his tenure he played baseball and basketball for the school. He married his fraternity sweetheart, Cynthia Cheek, a semester before graduation. They lived in Shreveport and had their first child Catherine (42) before moving to Houston where he started his career in the paper distribution business. After a few years they migrated up north to Carrollton where they had two more children, Alyssa (37) and Erik (35). With his cunning good looks and wit, Richard was a team/party favorite. He was the type of man who could draw attention to a room with just the sound of his voice. He coached sports for a few years for each of his children sharing his love of baseball with them. He played recreational softball for years after college until his back and knees made him retire the game altogether. He loved sports more than life and could often be found napping in his chair during broadcasts. Richard is survived by his wife Cindy of 46 years; children: Catherine Skarsten of Perth, Australia, Alyssa (Spencer) Mitchell of Frisco, TX and Erik (Terah) Skarsten of Carrollton,TX; Grandchildren: Mason Rogers, Marley Rogers, Vivian Mitchell, Easton Mitchell and Alivia Amos. If you or someone you love thinks they are an alcoholic please get help. The strain this disease not only places on loved ones but on one's own body and mind is harrowing. The family has chosen not to have a memorial service at this time and will contact family and friends they are close with if their decision changes.