Rick N. Parsons

By Orleans Hub Posted 1 April 2022 at 10:03 am

Rick N. Parsons, 77, of Colorado Springs, Colo., passed away on Tue., 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, NY to Paul and Betty (Tripp) Parsons. He graduated from Lyndonville High School in 1962 and from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1966. On Sept. 3, 1967 he married his high school sweetheart, Nancy Custer, in Lyndonville, NY. 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; son, Rustin Parsons and his wife, Paige of Marietta, Ga.; daughter, Penn Grow and her husband, Justin of Colorado Springs, Colo. 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.