Rick was the kind of leader who left a lasting impact not only on the work we did, but on the people fortunate enough to work alongside him. For more than four years, I had the privilege of being part of his team, and his leadership helped shape the kind of leader I hope to be.
Rick believed that integrity mattered more than perfection and that success was measured not by personal accomplishments, but by the people you helped along the way. He lived those values every day. We worked well together because he built a culture of trust, respect, and genuine care for others.
I will always be grateful for the encouragement he gave me throughout my career. After each performance review, I proudly posted it on my refrigerator so my family could read the thoughtful feedback and kind words he shared. Rick had a remarkable ability to see potential in people, help them grow, and make them feel valued.
Above all, Rick was a family man through and through. His face lit up whenever he spoke about his sons and their accomplishments, and there was always a special joy in his voice when he talked about his grandson. The love and pride he had for his family were unmistakable.
Rick’s legacy lives on in the many people he mentored, supported, and inspired. I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to learn from him, work with him, and call him my boss. He will be greatly missed.
~ Vivian Flynn,
Forreston, IL
Our sincere condolences from the entire Yanny family to Rick's family. We got to know Rick through his involvement in Boy Scout Troop 61. Rick served as Project Coach for our son David's Eagle service project. David said Rick's coaching was integral to David his earning the Eagle rank.
~ John and Lynda Yanny,
Caledonia, WI
Rick was my mentor. He helped me learn my profession and me and my family are forever grateful. He was a friend and I will miss him.
~ Daniel Fasko,
Belvidere , IL
Dear Ron and Nina,
I am so sorry to hear of your son’s passing. Please extend my condolences to Rick’s wife and children. This is certainly a shocker.
Sending love, hugs, and prayers.
~ Stephan Tourtillott Grochowski ,
Keshena, WI
It was an absolute privilege to serve alongside Rick in the 84th Division for so many years. He was a dedicated soldier, a true professional, and an even better friend. My deepest condolences to the family.
~ Mark Waters,
Hartford, WI
So very sorry to hear of Rick's passing. I was a Christ King School classmate and friend for many years. Thank you for your service Rick. The entire Pellien Family extend their sympathy.
~ Fred Pellien,
Wauwatosa, WI
It was my privilege to spend time with Rick as the parent of a Scout in Troop 61. I especially remember Rick's generosity, service, and fun during multiple Troop 61 high adventure trips. Our time in Troop 61 was so much better for having Rick been a part of it. Our condolences to his family and many friends.
~ Scott Koranda,
Wauwatosa, WI
Condolences to all family members of the Tourtillott Family. May our Creator bring you all comfort in the memories of all the good family events in the days and week ahead. Rick is his arms and awaits the time when we are all together once again! Greg & Linda
~ Greg Miller,
Bowler, WI
