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Obituary written by son Jason Colthurst, August 13, 2001
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Wallace ''Rick'' Colthurst
July 15, 1941 - August 11, 2001
| Resided
In: |
Virginia
Beach |
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| Visitation: |
August
15, 2001 |
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| Service: |
August
16, 2001 |
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Retired US Navy
CMDR, Wallace R. Colthurst, 60 passed away suddenly in his neighborhood
of Haygood Point on August 11, 2001.
“Rick” lived a full life. Born in San Francisco, CA he was raised in
Oakland, CA. In 1961, while attending Santa Clara University in CA, he
joined the Navy ROTC, beginning a 25 year long naval career. While a
lieutenant, Rick served in Vietnam from 1970-1971. Serving as Executive
Officer aboard repair ship, USS Askari, he directed Naval gunfire
support missions and support operations. For this he was awarded the
Bronze Star medal with combat distinguishing device for
“Meritorious” service. The remainder of his naval career would
include service on many ships. From April 13, 1971 – July 14, 1972
Rick was the commanding officer of a fleet oiler, The USS Chewaucan AOG
50. In the early 1980’s Commander Colthurst was involved in the rescue
of Cuban refugees aboard the USS Saipan LHA-2. After his retirement in
1986, Rick immediately sought further employment, which he found with
International Research Institute with whom he remained until his death.
Always “on the go” Rick thrived on squeezing every last drop out of
life. Even though constantly working, he always found time to read
history, play golf and follow the progress of the Oakland A’s. While
travelling coast to coast on business, he always made time to visit with
family in his native California. He was very intent on keeping family
together and made sure everyone was “up on things.”
Rick Colthurst was a very strong and energetic individual who loved to
do his best for people and will be missed by those who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia; daughter, Gillian; son, Jason;
daughter-in-law, Dorcas; grandson, Darby and sister, Marjorie Ann;
step-father, Benjamin B. Hill and in-laws, Claude and Rose Cox and
family.
A funeral service will be held Thursday 1 pm at St. Gregory’s Catholic
Church with Father John-Mary Tompkins, O.S.B. officiating. The family
will receive friends Wednesday from 7-9 pm at Altmeyer Funeral Home
Virginia Beach chapel.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to; Santa Clara University,
Alumni Office, Donohoe Alumni Bldg., 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA
95053 or call 408-554-6800
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Rick's Obituary