Richard "Rick" Kilzer

Richard (Rick) Duane Kilzer was born in Nampa, Idaho to parents Dick and Marilyn [Anderson] in October 1949.  He inherited his dry sense of humor and his interest in wood working and dabbling in building things from his (Navy-enlisted-turned-butcher) dad; but choosing to be an engineer when he grew up?  That probably came through from his mother, who was first a draftsperson then an early programmer. Lots of natural aptitude and skill in that family, but plenty of enjoyable family camping and fishing trips along the Snake river in Idaho on horseback as well.

He was the eldest, but at 6’3” Rick wasn’t the taller of the two Kilzer boys.  Younger brother, Ron, topped out at 6’6” and the two remained close growing up shuttled as they were between Southern California and Idaho most summers outgrowing their shoes together.

Rick went to an early progressive high school in SoCal which led him to make the choice upon graduation to attend California State University, Fullerton where he secured a Master’s degree in Mathematics.  A gifted teacher, he taught Advanced Calculus with Fullerton for a time before being hired away by Hughes Aircraft.  Thereafter began the excellent decision to begin his long (and “fun” as Rick saw it) career in the aerospace industry described best below by his good friend, Jim Outlaw.

Rick’s career spanned over 40 years in the defense and intelligence community with Hughes Aircraft, TRW and Northrup Grumman at various locations throughout the United States and Scotland.  His positions included software engineer, systems engineer, on-site technical representative, and signals analyst. As an on-site technical representative for a Navy special project, Rick was considered the resident system expert providing technical expertise, guidance and training. Rick was a mentor and positive influence on many sailors. He was often described as a teacher with great patience, a constant smile and quiet good humor.  He had a unique ability to break down complex systems into easily understandable pieces. Rick’s dedication and contributions throughout his career had a direct major impact to the success of the programs he worked on. He will be remembered by many as a great friend who readily shared his most valuable asset; his time.

Rick met his wife, Debi, at work (Hughes) after one of his daily six mile runs along the beach over his lunch hour.  They took an instant dislike of one another, but happily that changed quickly enough that they were married in Palm Springs with their families attending the celebration in 1980.   To Rick and Debi’s delight, in 1983 their lovely daughter, Randi Nicole, was welcomed into the world.

Soon after Randi’s appearance on the scene there began a 10-year-long move to Scotland where Rick, Debi and Randi met and made lifelong friendships with some of the most wonderful people there ever were.  Both British and American!  When the decision was made to close RAF Edzell, the Kilzer’s returned to the U.S. in 1996, settling in Colorado and a new life here.  New friends, satisfying work, and nice experiences in a beautiful state.  In 2016, Rick retired to share the good life with Debi in Centennial.

Rick passed away quietly at home on January 9, 2021.  He left us too soon.

As mentioned above, he will be remembered as an excellent teacher with his endless patience and warmth, but more than that Rick was a true friend beloved by the countless people he gently welcomed into his life.  He enjoyed a thrilling movie, a good laugh with his buddies and of course an occasional shot of single malt whiskey.  A good husband, an understanding dad, a dear and thoughtful friend.

With love, we will miss and remember Rick always.

Unfortunately, due to current COVID restrictions, there will be no in person remembrance of life celebration.   So, we ask that you find it in your heart to raise a glass, share a Rick story and have a laugh.  He will be there with you!

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to your favorite charity in Rick’s memory.

Condolences may be sent to:

19053 East Costilla Place

Centennial, CO 80016