Rickey (Rick) Jon Tourtillott, age 61, passed away June 14th, leaving behind a profound legacy of service, leadership, and deep devotion to his family, community, and heritage.
Rick was born on July 18, 1964, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Ron and Nita Tourtillott. He grew up in the Milwaukee area, attending Christ King Catholic School and Marquette University High School. He went on to attend Marquette University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1987. During his time at Marquette, Rick served as the university's last "First Warrior," a role he held with immense honor as he authentically represented the Native American community on campus.
A proud veteran, Rick joined the ROTC program while at Marquette and commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves. Over a distinguished 20-year military career, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before his retirement. Notably, he served a combat tour in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where his dedicated leadership earned him the Bronze Star for meritorious service.
In his civilian life, Rick brought the same level of commitment to his professional career. He dedicated 30 years of hard work to Chr. Hansen in West Allis, Wisconsin, and later capped off his successful career serving as the Environmental Health and Safety Director at Berner Food and Beverage in Dakota, IL.
Rick was a proud descendant of the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohicans and the Menominee Nation, carrying a lifelong pride in his family’s rich heritage. He frequently combined his love for his culture and his country by proudly representing the U.S. Army as a veteran flag carrier at numerous pow-wows alongside the Mohican Veterans.
Passionate about mentorship, Rick was a lifelong supporter of the Boy Scouts of America. Having achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in his youth, he stepped up as a troop leader for Troop 61 once his son joined. Through his leadership, Rick mentored and inspired countless young scouts, instilling in them the values of honor, duty, and community.
Above all his achievements, Rick was a dedicated family man. He is survived by his loving wife of 34 years, Christine (Rossner); his sons, Matthew (Hannah) and Nathan; his beloved parents, Ron and Nita Tourtillott; and his cherished grandson, Hayden. He is also survived by his siblings, Jay (Michelle), Rhonda (Jerry) Hall, Terry (Amy), and Tim (Tara), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
Visitation will be held at Schmidt and Bartelt (10121 W. North Ave., Wauwatosa, WI 53226) on Thursday, June 25th, from 4:00-7:00 pm.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Christ King Catholic Church (2646 N. Swan Blvd, Wauwatosa, WI 53226) on Friday, June 26th at 10:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.
