Richard Wendell Wilson, born April 3, 1954 in Ulysses, Kansas, passed away Saturday, October 26, 2024 at the CRNA medical facility property in Tazlina, Alaska.  

Rick was a retired State of Alaska worker; a very gifted guitarist, whom close friends/fans refer to as a Rock Star; and Harley Davidson (Scooters as he referred to them) enthusiast. 

Rick will also be fondly remembered for his love and devotion to his canine companions. From 1992 through the early 2000's he raced in the Copper River Basin 300 sled dog race, placing as high as 8th in 1999. Many refer to him as the CB300 “hometown team”. Some years he was the only local Copper River Basin year-round resident to run the ‘Toughest 300 miles in Alaska’. Throughout his adult life he was a passionate breeder, not only of Alaskan sled dogs, but also Afghans and most recently Large Munsterlanders – always advocating to retain their true genetic histories for future generations.  

Rick spent most of his life living and loving Alaska. He and his family originally moved to Alaska in 1967 when his father was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force base. Both his parents proudly served in the United States Air Force and are interned at Arlington National Cemetery. He graduated from Anchorage West High in 1972. He eventually moved to the Copper River Basin in 1979 with friends and hand built the log cabin he and many, many dogs, friends, and family have since called home.  

Rick was the oldest of 3 children born to Dorrell James Wilson and Mary Lou (Poole) Wilson, who have once again greeted him into their loving arms. He leaves behind his wife, Suanne (Rembe) Wilson of Tazlina, AK; 2 sisters - Tyna Lucke of Waldorf, MD and Jamie Hamilton of Merriam, KS; as well as 3 children – Gunnar Hatten of Anchorage, Summit Wilson and Sage Wilson both of Copper Center; 1 grandson – Wren Coulter and his dad, Andrew Coulter, also both of Copper Center, AK, in addition to many, many other relatives and dear friends. 

Rick’s wishes were to be cremated and his ashes spread in a beloved location by one of his closest friends in the coming future. His Celebration of Life memorial will be held later in 2025 to allow all who loved Rick and wish to participate time to gather.  

Anyone wishing to honor Rick’s memory is encouraged to make a donation to the Copper Basin 300 Race, PO Box 282, Glennallen, AK 99588. Email: Copperbasin300@gmail.com or via https://www.cb300.com/.   

Deepest appreciation to the Copper River Country Journal owners who graciously gave permission to reprint Rick’s picture above from their lovely tribute which can be found at https://www.countryjournal2020.com/2024/10/rick-wilson-70-has-passed-away.html?m=0.