Richard “Rick” H. Wilson, age 71, of Gladstone, passed away on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at his home with his wife by his side.
Rick was born on January 24, 1954 in Escanaba, the son of Harold and Malvina Wilson. He was raised in Gross and graduated from Gladstone High School in the class of 1973. On April 9, 1973 Rick met the former Debbie Casey on a blind date and they were united in marriage on May 17, 1975. Together they shared 50 years of wonderful memories.
Rick worked for most of his life as a journeyman pipefitter. He worked for Bay Shipbuilding in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin for 7 years and then began work at the Escanaba paper mill in 1982 until his retirement in 2014. He was a member of the United Steelworkers Local 2-21 as well as the Mead Rod & Gun Club. He enjoyed traveling, ice fishing, hunting, and was a jack of all trades. In 2020, he joined All Saints Catholic Church and was a devoted parishioner. He will be truly missed by many.
Rick is survived by his loving wife, Debbie; children Steven Wilson and Sarah (Micah) Badenhop; grandchildren Edwin, Rosie, and Maggie Badenhop; sisters Lois Day and Marilyn (Gary) Kulas; brothers-in-law Pat (Mary) Casey and Russ (Aysha Koszla) Casey; sister-in-law Cheryl Schorr; beloved dog Lucy; as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Malvina; parents-in-law John and Marge Casey; brother Dan Wilson; sister Shirley O’Mealy; brothers-in-law Harry O’Mealy, Ramon Tordeur, John Schorr, Fred Day, Mike Casey, and Joe Casey; and sisters-in-law, Barb Wilson and Bonnie Casey.
The family would like to extend a thank you to OSF ACU and radiology departments, Dr. Scott Randall, UP Home Health and Hospice, and Fr. Jamie Ziminski from All Saints Catholic Church for the care and compassion they provided to Rick and his family.
Family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Visitation will be from 2-4:30. Mass of Christian Burial honoring Rick will begin at 5 PM at All Saints Catholic Church in Gladstone with Rev. Fr. Brandon Yanni officiating. A luncheon will follow in the parish hall. Rick will be laid to rest in the Rapid River Cemetery. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Wilson family.
Deanna and Mark Koski - Escanaba , Mi
Debbie – so sorry to learn of Rick’s passing. Prayers for comfort and peace to you and your family.
Karen Krebsbach - Iron Mountain, MI
Debbie, I am so sorry for your loss. May God hold you and your family in the palm of His hand.
Sue & Bruce Broman - Mesa, Az
Debbie & family, we are saddened to learn of Rick’s passing. You are in our thoughts & prayers. We hope the wonderful memories you’ve shared will sustain you during this difficult time. Hugs, Sue & Bruce
Ann Streichert - Escanaba, MI
Dear Deb and family
My deepest sympathy to you. May you find comfort in all the wonderful memories and hold them tight.
Sincerely
Ann Streichert
Pam Kercheval - De Pere, WI
Debbie, Rick truly was your soul mate. I will always remember his wonderful smile and the quiet, calm way he spoke. He will be watching over you and your beautiful family now. You and your family are in my prayers. Love, Pam and Rick
Toni Valiquette - Gladstone, Mi
Sincerely Sorry,Love &Prayers.
Toni Valiquette - Gladstone, Mi
Sincerely Sorry,Love &Prayers.
kelly eisner - MANITOWOC, WI
So sorry for your loss Debbie, Rick was such a nice person, praying for you and your family at this difficult time
Love, Kelly Casey
Mike Madden - Gladstone , Mi
Deb. So so sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. I had many great times working with him. He was a great teacher to me. What a great man. Take care. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Janelle Wigand - Escanaba , MI
Deb, I’m truly sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. My heart goes out to you and your family. May God comfort you during this difficult time.