Arrest of Richard "Dick" Dickinson, well-known local figure, made headlines this week
Captain Richard Leland Dickinson, a man of many passions and achievements, passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on September 12, 2024, surrounded by family in Sheridan, Wyoming.
Born in Sheridan on August 26, 1938, Dickinson's early life was spent on a small farm near Verndale, Minnesota. After completing his education, he embarked on a remarkable journey, joining the U.S. Army in January 1958 and serving for nearly three years.
His military career extended far beyond his Army service, as he later dedicated over 30 years to the U.S. Navy, retiring as a Captain. This distinguished career was marked by a deep love for the sea, as Dick was an avid boater. He was the proud owner of the vessel "Crosswinds," and served as Past Commodore of the Sacramento Yacht Club, sharing his passion for boating by training others to operate their boats.
In recognition of his service, Dick received the Meritorious Service Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, and Meritorious Unit Commendation.
Beyond his military service, Dick was a dedicated academic, earning a bachelor's degree, master's degree, and Ph.D. from the University of Wyoming and Arizona State University, respectively.
For over 25 years, Dick worked at California State University, Sacramento, holding various positions including Professor, Department Chair, Associate Dean, Executive Director, Vice President, and Executive Assistant.
Dick was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Roberta Stratton, son Scott and his wife Qiumei Dickinson, daughter Andrea Dickinson Cass and her husband Gregory Cass, and three grandchildren, Maxwell, Piper, and Cole. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Karen (Garber) of Sheridan.
A memorial service for Dick will take place on July 26, 2025, at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Big Horn, Wyoming, followed by a reception at the Woman's Club. Online condolences can be expressed at www.kanefuneral.com.
In his leisure time, Dick enjoyed a variety of activities such as running, reading, off-roading, traveling in an RV, and playing with his dogs. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
Champion Kane Funeral Home is responsible for the arrangements.
In his retirement years, Captain Richard Leland Dickinson pursued a diverse lifestyle, indulging in education-and-self-development by earning multiple degrees and working in academia. Amidst his leisure activities, he still found time to nurture his passion for boating, a hobby he shared with others through training at the Sacramento Yacht Club.
