Rickey (Rick) Conner

life story

Husband, Dad, Papa

"The future is where dreams and reality meet." Dad loved sharing that with us, along with his love of fantasy and sci-fi. He was one of the original geeks: computer engineer, gamer, Trekker, 49ers fan, D&D dungeon master, WoW guild master, undead rogue who read LOTR to his toddler daughter at the horror of my mother when she found out years later. Dad was just cool to be around.

Born on September 12, 1945 to Pierre and Signa (Felt) Conner, Rick was one of four kids who grew up in Palo Alto, CA. He then joined the Navy to serve in Viet Nam and had some crazy stories to tell from that time. When he returned at age 22, he met and married the love of his life, Barbara. I (Cindy) was born later that year, followed by my brothers Steve and Dave. Mom and Dad teased and bickered but were inseparable for just shy of 53 years of marriage.

Dad worked as a computer hardware engineer/manager, and enjoyed golfing, biking, fishing, camping, and playing games with his family, especially his grandkids. In 1977, Dad moved his family to a small farm in central Minnesota, and then to the river town of Hastings where he and Mom lived for over 30 years.

When Dad was diagnosed with esophageal cancer, he thought that was it. But Mom, a retired VA nurse, wouldn't have it and made him promise not to leave her. Dad was truly a warrior! He did anything and everything to stay by her side, especially when she too was diagnosed with cancer and didn't have long herself. If it wasn't for COVID, I think Dad would have made it at least for a few more years. But when the cancer came back, he found his peace and he said his goodbyes, and he let go. When Mom's time came just a few months later, I'm sure it was Dad who came to fetch her and help her let go too.

I'd like to think that Dad is watching from somewhere amazing where fantasy and sci fi and dreams and reality meet. He's probably laughing at the current race to space by Branson and Bezos, as he is star-hopping himself somewhere out there and yet nearby too. Enjoy this next adventure, Dad. Till our futures cross paths again, all my love, and may God enjoy you as much as we did.

Memorial Service in Fall 2021 TBD

We are planning a memorial service later this year for both Rick and Barb when everyone is vaccinated and all of the grandkids can be there.