Richard A. Walton

After a long battle with prostate cancer, Rick passed away on Sunday, January 3, 2010 at the Seasons of Life Hospice Home in Woodruff, Wisconsin. He was 50 years old. True to his nature, he 'went home' shortly after the Chicago Bears beat the Detroit Lions in their final football game of the season. Born July 7, 1959 in Evanston, Illinois, "Dick" (as he was know in the early days) was the youngest child, and the only son, of Charles Russell and Vera Lois (nee Holmquist) Walton. As a child, he was involved in Boy Scouts and worked as a newspaper boy. He enjoyed the annual family summer vacations to Ilg's Resort on Rest Lake in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin, where he learned to love the North Woods. After graduating in 1977 from Evanston Township High School, he chose to further his interest in forestry by attending Michigan Technological University in Houghton. He earned his Associates Degree in Applied Science in 1979. Rick moved to Laramie, Wyoming, working for the forestry department for about 5 years. In 1984, he relocated to Land O' Lakes, Wisconsin, initially being employed as a cook at the Gateway Lodge and then at the High Hat. Rick ultimately found his home as a cook at the Red Man Supper Club where he was employed for over 20 years and affectionately known as "Ricko (the rock)." An avid sports fanatic, Rick was a diehard Chicago Bears and Cubs fan. Besides playing Fantasy Football, he participated in an area football pool, winning 2nd place one week along with several honorable mentions throughout this past season. He enjoyed bowling on a league at T & M Lanes for many years and was an active member of the Rusty Nail team in the WUPY Y-101 Trivia Contest. Rick is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Judy (Tony) Athmejvar, of Titusville, NJ and Mrs. Jean (Mike) Uptmor, of New London Township, PA. He also leaves behind 7 nieces and nephews, 4 great nieces and nephews, his cousin Doug Coulter (and family) of Evanston, IL, and countless friends from the Land O' Lakes area. He was preceeded in death by his parents and two infant sisters. A special thank you for the love and support given to Rick, Jean, and Judy goes to PEGGY SAAD – Ricko’s “second mom" – and the entire Red Man “family� Rick loved as his own MISSY Z, Ricko’s dear friend to the end: thanks for all the visits and trips with Rick; always remember The Refuge SEASONS OF LIFE HOSPICE HOME STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS: Linda & Nancy (remember “DA BEARS�), Connie (thanks for “chaperoning� Rick’s porch visits), Jane (“Annie Oakley� will not be forgotten), Lori (your “giggles� brought many smiles), “Perky� Sue (Rick loved your cooking, especially the cookies), Jackie, Nancy R., Pat, and all the CNAs. Also volunteers Joe (thanks for the donuts) and Carolyn (the back rubs were wonderful). Judy and Jean would also like to thank everyone for the caring support and friendships made during their extended stays at the home. As per Rick's request, he was cremated and will be buried at a later date by his parents’ side at Memorial Park Cemetery in Skokie, Illinois. A celebration of Rick's life will take place on Saturday, January 30, 2010 at Chuck's Rusty Nail in Land O' Lakes. Friends and acquaintances are asked to stop by anytime after 8:00 pm to share their pictures, mementos, and stories about Ricko. Snacks will be served and a cash bar will be available. To honor Rick's memory, donations to the Seasons of Life Hospice Home would be greatly appreciated. Donation envelopes will be available at the Celebration of Life gathering, or checks (made payable to "Dr. Kate Hospice") may also be sent directly to Ministry Home Care, Dr. Kate Hospice, P.O. Box 770, Woodruff, WI 54568. REST IN PEACE, RICK - WE'LL SEE YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE... God looked around his garden and He found an empty place. Then He looked down upon the earth and saw your tired face. He put His arms around you, and lifted you to rest. God's garden must be beautiful, He always takes the best. He knew that you were suffering, He knew you were in pain. He knew that you would never get well on earth again. He saw the road was getting rough, and the hills were hard to climb. So He closed your weary eyelids and whispered, "Peace be thine." It broke our hearts to lose you. But you didn't go alone. For part of us went with you the day God called you home.