Richard A. Colson

I first met Colonel Colson while I was a Cadet in the Arizona Military Academy. Subsequently, I was honored to serve with him after receiving my commission in the ARNG.

He was an exemplary officer, role model and mentor.

Rest in Peace.

My Papa was the greatest Papa ever. He was the only man I looked up to. I learned so much from him simply by observing his character and how he handled things, on top of being corrected when I made mistakes and showed me what a man was when I was unsure of myself. My papa gave my sister, mother, and myself a place to live when we had no money to go anywhere else. I am so proud to know I am related to a man of his strength and abilities and mentoring leadership qualities. Thank you Grandpa for...

I'm very honored to have had Papa Colson in my life. I lived with him and Grandma Lee for 18 years. He was the only father figure I ever had and I wouldn't of wanted it any other way. He taught me a lot in my life that I will never forget. He is always on my mind and will forever be in my heart. I know that he is in Heaven looking down on us. I miss him so very much.
Proud Granddaughter.

Colonel Colson was my mentor and the leadership example I followed in the toughest combat situations in Vietnam. I never served under a more professional or capable officer in my 20 plus years on active duty. Because of outstanding leaders like Col. Colson I was always proud to say I entered active duty from the Arizona Army National Guard. God Bless you and your family Lee.
Desi J. Sanchez, LTC, US Army (Retired)

June 16,2010
My deepest sympathies to the Colson family. I have very vivid and warm memories of Colonel Colson; as he was both a friend and a mentor to me at HQSTARC. He had a very keen sense of humor; and we use to talk about the books we read. He was a man of the highest integrity; and a deep sense of sensitivity for his fellow man.
Bill O'Reilly, CW4 (Ret) Glendale, AZ

What an honor and pleasure for us to have known Colonel Colson over the years - an officer and gentleman in the highest tradition of the military he loved. His comments and discussions were positive and uplifting. A great story teller, Dick always had a tale to tell to meet the situation.

When often asked, “Are you related to Colonel Colson,” my reply was always, “No, he is a fine officer and gentleman; he just spells his name wrong.”

Dick will be missed, but is...

When my father pasted and we needed to get back to Europe he was there for us. We were young and financially strapped. We will never forget him or his wonderful family. He will be missed. I am sure that he touched many in the same way.

I have lived across the street from the Colson for many years. It was a joy to have Dick as my neighbor. And I always felt safer knowing he was there. Dick had a great sense of humor and made me laugh on many occasion. I will always remember his great Halloween costumes he wore when taking the grandkids around the neighborhood. He was a great father, grandfather and husband.
He will be missed greatly.

With love,
Darla and Kent Irwin