Rick Karden

It’s been nearly a month since Rick left us with a big hole in our community and in our hearts.
My husband and I met Laura and Rick shortly after we moved to Frisco in 2003, and we became instant friends and fellow members of the Summit County river tribe. Rick had a long list of passions including kite-boarding, frisbee-golf, teaching, video games, skiing, diving, pinball, and of course, rock climbing. Kayaking was clearly Laura’s passion. She would often drag Rick to the river as a reluctant participant. But the moment his boat hit the water, Rick lit up like a Christmas tree. I would tease him that he couldn’t fool me… he loved kayaking! He would surf on every wave he could find, and I’ve never seen anyone go upside down as much as Rick, but he consistently rolled back up with a giant smile on his face. I loved seeing Rick’s giant river smile as he played in the water like a baby otter. The river is the last place I saw Rick, and that’s how I will always remember him.

I met Rick while helping kids at summer climbing camp activities. He always wore an easy smile and could quickly speak with a gentle authority to a rambunctious group of active energetic youth. But I especially admired the kind and respectful way he engaged so naturally in one to one conversation with them, especially if they were fearful or perhaps "testing the boundaries" of any rules set out for the day. I can see how he must have been such an inspiring school teacher. It is a grand thing to enrich and motivate others. Rick's impact on the people of Summit county will be long remembered.

I am so proud of the overwhelming amount of contributions Rick was able to bring to his community and family. He lived his life to the fullest!
As a teacher myself. it is uplifting to hear of his gifts in drawing out the best in his students and engaging the community in such dynamic learning experiences. Even as a small child, Rick was perceptive, enterprising and extremely creative.
While living in Denver during high school, Rick and I spent many hours together in my art studio where he designed and built a magnificent stained-glass door for Steve’s home. Rick’s earliest photos were developed in my darkroom. I treasure his ability to capture his love of nature through his gorgeous photos.
 
Saying farewell to Rick is so very hard for me. I loved him, admired his kind nature and treasurehaving had so many wonderful times togetherwith him. I pray that his soul is at peace.
 
An important high point that I remember was Rick’s call to tell me that he had met the woman of his dreams - Laura. You were a bright light in his life. May his memory be a source of strengthand blessings for all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
 
I will continue to send him light and love,
 
Aunt Peggy Sunshine
 

He was my teacher all 4 years, learning computer science and engineering from him was truly a blessing and I felt like we always learned more about him each and every day. I am heading into colorado school of mines this year and I can say that he is one of the biggest reasons that I am here. I could not be more thankful to him as a teacher and as a person. I wish his family all the best.

Rick and I worked together at Keystone ski school back in the day. He was caring, cheerful and committed. Rick lived a great life, celebrate that life. My wishes are for Rick‘s family to be strong during these trying times that are part of life.

My heart is broken. I attended college with Rick at UNC. He was a kind, funny and brilliant man. The world won’t be the same without him. Sending heartfelt prayers to Rick’s loved ones during this difficult time.
Picture is McCowan Hall, UNC, Greeley, CO, 1987

My sincere sympathy in the loss of such a beloved and honorable family member. May he rest in peace.
From a first cousin of Rev. Edward Smith

Eternal Breath of the mountains and Maker of the seas,
We remember our beloved Rick,
Whose soul now journeys where sky meets eternity.

As cliffs rise strong against the wind,
So did he rise to every challenge — with courage, grace, and wonder.
As rivers carve their patient way through stone,
So did his kindness and curiosity carve space in our hearts.

He touched the sky with his hands,
And the earth with his feet,
And between them he lived fully —
A bridge between summit and valley, water and wind.

May the trails he climbed remain bathed in golden light,
And may the rivers he loved sing his name in their endless song.
May the mountains hold his spirit in their quiet strength,
And the stars guide him in the great wilderness beyond.

Source of Compassion, shelter his soul in the shade of Your wings,
And bind him into the bond of eternal life.
Let his memory be a blessing,
And may we walk the world with the same courage, joy, and wonder he showed us.