Richard F. Wilson

Richard ‘Rick’ F. Wilson, 81, of Rogers, Arkansas, peacefully passed away on the morning of May 24, 2024. Born on April 10, 1943, in Glendale, California, he was the beloved only child of Richard F. and Mary L. Wilson.

Rick embarked on a 36-year career with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) in 1966 at the San Jose office. In 1967, he transferred to Santa Barbara where he dedicated 29 years. Rick moved to a resident post in Oakhurst, California at the south gate of Yosemite in 1996, retiring from the CHP in 2002.

In 2001, Rick married the love of his life, Dr. Awilda Santiago, in a picturesque forest wedding. Following retirement, Rick and Awilda moved to Northwest Arkansas in 2008, where he proudly served with the local Coast Guard Auxiliary. Yearning to understand his relationship with God, granddaughter, Lauren, spent the last few months teaching her grandpa how to pray and have a relationship with God. Ultimately, Rick accepted Jesus Christ, becoming a proud member of the Nazarene Church.

Rick enjoyed water sports, metal fabrication, wood turning, cooking, reading, and immersing himself in good television series. Above all, Rick had a gift for making people laugh, always armed with a witty joke and never forgetting the punchline. He could often be seen wearing a patriotic t-shirt or one with a clever, sarcastic quip. Rick’s compassion for others manifested in always being eager to lend a helping hand. He adored his family, especially his beloved wife, Awilda. Deeply devoted to his family he faced his 3.5-year battle with cancer with remarkable courage.

Rick is preceded in death by his son, Matthew Wilson. He is survived by his loving wife, Dr. Awilda Santiago-Wilson; his son Darren Wilson; daughters-in-law Nicole (wife of Darren) and Jenna (wife of the late Matthew); and three cherished grandchildren, Lauren, Lucas, and Jack.

Memorial services will be held on Saturday, July 13, at 1:00 pm at Coast Community Church of the Nazarene, 4973 Via Los Santos, Santa Barbara, California