Richard (Rick) Boomer went to be with the Lord on February 8, 2024. Born in Osborne, Kansas, on September 12, 1949, Rick was the 3rd of six children to Warren and Viola Boomer.
Rick’s childhood was rooted in the farming traditions of rural Kansas. He learned the value of hard work, resilience, and stewardship of the land from working with his family on the farm. He enjoyed and participated in many sports in high school and college, excelling in football, baseball, basketball, and golf. On the family farm, Rick also enjoyed hunting with his brothers and friends, which became an annual tradition.
Rick attended Kansas State University and was a member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. After graduation, he dedicated himself to his career as a Certified Public Accountant. Through his profession, he was able to share his heart for others with his colleagues, clients, and community.
In 1974, Rick married Patricia Boomer, sharing 50 years of wonderful family memories. Together, they raised two daughters, Whitney Geldon and Jenna Gourlay, who brought immeasurable joy and pride to Rick’s life.
In addition to his professional achievements, Rick was a devoted coach to his daughter’s softball teams, fostering their athletic talents and instilling in them the values of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Whether on the sidelines cheering them on or offering guidance on the field, Rick’s passion for sports was surpassed only by his pride in their accomplishments.
Rick was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church, which helped guide his faith and enriched his life. Among many of his service roles, he loved greeting and shaking hands with all who entered, learning their names and getting to know them. He was very fond of both his coffee groups at church and his exercise groups from Via Christi and Wildcat Fitness.
In recent years he took great pleasure in his role as grandfather to three adoring grandchildren, Payne, Olivia, and Abraham. He cherished every moment spent with them, imparting wisdom, love, and laughter.
Rick is survived by his wife, Patricia (Patty) Boomer; loving daughters, Whitney Geldon (Alex) and Jenna Gourlay (Matthew); cherished grandchildren, Payne Gourlay, Olivia Geldon, and Abraham Geldon; his brothers Gary (Mary), Gene (Marsha), Russ (Cathy), Kent (Robin), many nieces, nephews and valued friends. Rick was preceded in death by his parents and sister Kathy Boomer Palmer. We will carry his memory in our hearts always.
A memorial service celebrating Rick’s life will be held at Peace Lutheran Church, 2500 Kimball Ave Manhattan, Kansas 66502, on Thursday, February 15, 2024, at 1:30 pm, with a reception to follow. The service can be streamed on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/peacelutheranchurchmanhattan In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Peace Lutheran Church, in Rick’s memory.
Russ and Cathy, we are so sorry to hear of Rick’s sudden passing. He had a loving and impactful life as described in his obituary. We are praying for your entire family as you grieve his loss. May your faith in Jesus bring comfort to your sad hearts.
In His Love,
Shelly and Tom Horner
Rick had a kind and gentle spirit. My sincere condolences to his family. I imagine he is throwing perfect spirals in heaven. Kent has surely welcomed his favorite quarterback to the heavenly sidelines.
Russ and Cathy, so sorry for your loss. Know it’s a sad and tough time for your family . Sending you hugs and love.
Mary and Bill
I was saddened to hear that Rick died last Friday. We were fraternity brothers and lived together in the Delt house for three years before I Ieft for a year of study in Germany. I have not talked with Rick but for a handful of times in the past 50 years, but I remember and picture him as though I saw him yesterday. I can do that because Rick was such a great guy, in addition to being an exceptional athlete. He stood out among others because of his actions, not his words,
I wish I had maintained contact with Rick over the years. I think we would have had a lot in common. From his obituary I see that he grew in his faith in Jesus, That is a comfort to me knowing that I will meet with him again when it is my time to go home.
To his family, I pray that God will give you peace that is beyond understanding.
Dear Patty and family,
We were saddedned to read of Rick’s passing. His friendly greeting and ready smile brightened our days.
We are thinking of you.
Sincerely,
Spencer and Marilee Puls
I met Rick playing with the Optimist Club basketball team in the mid-80’s. I wasn’t very good but he was so gracious to me when I made mistakes. I was impressed that he was still such a good player at the time even in his upper 30’s. He always lit up when he would see a friend.
Will miss him!