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BORN
1944
DIED
2021
Rick Parsons Obituary
RICK N. PARSONS
March 7, 1944
May 25, 2021
Rick N Parsons 77, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, passed away on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 at his home with his wife of 54 years, Nancy Parsons, at his side.
Rick was born March, 7, 1944 in Lyndonville, New York to Paul and Betty (Tripp) Parsons. He graduated from Lyndonville High School in 1962 and from the United States Air Force Academy in 1966. On September 3, 1967 he married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Custer, in Lyndonville, New York. After leaving the Air Force Academy, Rick dedicated 26 years to defending the United States. His service in defending our nation included two tours in Vietnam, one tour in Saudi Arabia with flying over 5,000 hours in the T-38, F-4, F-15, and F-16. After retiring as a Colonel from his decorated career in the Air Force, Rick began a second career as a Certified Financial Advisor in Monument, Colorado. In celebration of his life's hard work, after fully retiring Rick and Nancy built a beautiful home in Guffy, Colorado, which they enjoyed for 13 years before returning to Colorado Springs. Rick enjoyed spending time with his '66 USAFA classmates, playing softball and pickleball, and watching the Rockies whether they won or lost. However, he spent most of his weekends with his grandchildren - always an enthusiastic spectator, whether in person or online for sports or theater productions.
Rick is survived by his wife, Nancy Parsons, his son, Rustin Parsons and his wife Paige of Marietta, GA, and his daughter, Penn Grow and her husband Justin of Colorado Springs, CO. Most important to Rick were his six grandchildren: Riley Parsons, Rider Grow, Langley Grow, Turner Grow, Nancy Clare Parsons, and Tripp Parsons. Rick is also survived by his siblings, Sharon Heuermann, Brian Parsons, Brenda Mooney, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Betty Parsons, his wife's parents, Clarence and Lillian (Fraser) Custer, and his brother-in-law, Burt Mooney.
Rick was a committed supporter of programs for Veterans. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to a Veteran's program of your choosing.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Rick Parsons
Dorsey Price
May 24, 2023
RIP Classmate! I still remember our different encounters over the years including reunions and formal AFA events! Dorsey Price- `66!
Bill temaat
May 24, 2023
Rick, one of my very best friends who accomplished so much in life but never boasted about it. I went to the Rockies fantasy camp and roomed with him and not once did he mention what all he had done in the military,
He and I played racquetball and softball together for many years and he always had a smile on his face win or lose.
Nancy give me a call please 719-661-0197
Bill temaat
Eddie Porr
June 18, 2022
I worked for Col Parsons for almost two years while stationed at Soesterberg AB (Camp New Amsterdam). I´m so sorry to hear of his passing. Penn and Rusty, if you see this, please know your dad will ALWAYS be one of my heroes. I sure hope you remember me. :-)
Jim A Bledsoe, Lt Col, USAF (Ret)
June 7, 2021
I met Colonel Parsons at Soesterberg AB, the Netherlands, as he took command of the 32TFS (unique unit). After the change of command ceremony Rick almost immediately called a base wide commanders call in one of the hangers. As best as I can recall after a few brief remarks he said well that’s it, I just thought you might want to get a good look at the SOB that’s running this place. Instant laughter and instant bonding within his command. Some people have it and most people do not. RIP Colonel.
Peter Fotopoulos
June 3, 2021
He was a great man and best Air Force Commander I ever served under. I had the distinct honor of Col Parson's administering my first re-enlistment to my then skinny self at Soesterberg Air Base. He was my inspiration to stay with the Air Force and Department of Defense for a promising and successful 36 years career. RIP Sir!!! May you ever fly high in honor. God bless.
Larry Hudson
June 3, 2021
Nancy,
Tish and I offer our condolences for the loss of Colonel Parsons. I had much respect and admiration for him and it was an Honor and Privilege to go to war with the NOMADS...and with Colonel Parsons leading the way. Always an Officer and a Gentleman. Prayers for you and your family. May God grant you the Peace that Passeth All Understanding.
Respectfully
Larry Hudson, Colonel, USAF (Retired)
Once a NOMAD...Always a NIMAD
Dorsey D Price
June 3, 2021
So sorry my friend and classmate! We last saw each other in Hampton, VA at an Air Force ball! RIP!
Richard Tuseth
June 3, 2021
Nancy. So sorry to hear about Rick/Ripper. Hugs from here. —RC Tuseth
Harry & Betsy Icke
June 3, 2021
Nancy, we just found out through some Facebook posts about Rick's passing. We are so sorry for your loss and we look back with fond memories on our short times together as our careers passed each other at Soesterberg and at the Southwest Air Defense Sector. We wish you and family the best.
Susan Duhon
June 1, 2021
Nancy, I am so sorry for you and your family's loss. Had I known, I would have come as ya'll did for Roy. Please call me when you need a friend. Susan Duhon
bill temaat
June 1, 2021
Rick and I spent many enjoyable times together especially going to the Rockies Fanatsy camp in Tucson in 2000 and playing softball for many years so one of my best friends, Bill Temaat
Steve Young
May 31, 2021
The Buckley AFB military Retiree Activities Office (RAO) would like to offer our sincere condolences and our gratitude for Col Parsons' 26 years of distinguished service to our country in the Air Force. If you would like help with any matters related to casualty assistance, Defense Finance & Accounting Service, Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), Veterans Affairs (VA), etc. you can contact our office on Buckley AFB at 720-847-6693. The RAO is staffed by volunteers, all military retirees themselves, and our sole purpose is to provide assistance to any military retirees and surviving spouses/family members with anything related to their military service and/or benefits, in particular during difficult times such as this. We are deeply sorry for your loss.
Steve Young
Lt Col, USAF, Ret
Director, Buckley AFB RAO
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