Rick L. Wilson

Rick Linden Wilson, 64, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away on June 27, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, and unconditional love. He was born on August 13, 1961, in Wichita, Kansas, to Linda Pfannenstiel and Don Hancock.

Rick’s story is one of determination, loyalty, and selflessness. At just 13 years old, he began working at Dobb’s, even fibbing about his age so he could help provide for his family. That strong work ethic remained with him throughout his life. After graduating from West High School in 1979, Rick continued building the life he envisioned through hard work and dedication.

That same year, fate introduced him to the love of his life. When Kimberly Tinkham walked into Dobb’s for a job interview, Rick confidently told his manager, “You have to hire that girl.” It turned out to be one of the best decisions of his life. The two began dating shortly thereafter, and Rick wasted no time asking Kim to marry her during her senior year of high school. They were married on May 23, 1981, beginning a beautiful marriage that spanned more than 45 years.

Together, Rick and Kim built a life centered on love and family, welcoming their son, Blake, on March 1, 1982, and their daughter, Nichole, on October 5, 1984. Rick was a devoted husband, father, and later an incredibly proud grandfather. He found immense joy in cheering on his family, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories with those he loved most.

Rick spent 48 years with HMS Host, retiring in April 2026 as a Senior Manager in Information Technology. His loyalty, leadership, and dedication earned the respect of colleagues throughout his career. 

In the early 2000s, Rick embraced his passion for country music and entertainment. He managed the country music band Against The Grain and co-owned The South 40, a country bar in Haysville, Kansas. Those years were filled with great music, lifelong friendships, and countless memories that reflected Rick’s outgoing personality and love for bringing people together. 

Outside of work, Rick truly came alive outdoors. He loved hunting quail and pheasant, fishing, birdwatching, playing men’s and coed softball, and spending time with his beloved dogs. Whether gathered with friends at the ballpark or enjoying peaceful days in nature, Rick appreciated life’s simple pleasures.

In 2007, Rick and Kim discovered Toronto Lake, a place that quickly became their sanctuary. They purchased their first lake house on Lakeview Road, where countless weekends, holidays, and family gatherings were spent. The lake became Rick’s happy place—a place filled with laughter, fishing, sunsets, and treasured moments with those he loved.

Rick’s love for boating began early in his marriage to Kim and became one of the greatest joys of his life. Over the years they owned several boats, from a Monterey to a Malibu, eventually purchasing his pride and joy—a MasterCraft X-Star. Rick loved nothing more than being behind the wheel, pulling wakeboarders and wakesurfers across the water. And while he enjoyed the thrill of the sport, some of his favorite moments were the simplest ones—hooking up a tube and spending the day pulling his grandchildren around the lake, creating memories they will cherish forever.

Rick is survived by his beloved wife, Kimberly “Kim” Wilson; his son, Blake Wilson, and wife Amanda, along with their children, Matt Tadlock, Maci Tadlock, and Keagan Tadlock; his daughter, Nichole Meier, and husband Daniel, along with their children, Ethan Meier, Briley Meier, and Merrick Meier; his brothers, Sean Wilson and Steve Wilson; his mother-in-law, Sandra Tinkham; his niece, Kelsey Miller, and husband Jared; his sister-in-law, Angela Hartwell, and nephew, Ezra Hartwell; and his brother-in-law, Leigh Tinkham, and wife Lori. He also leaves behind many extended family members, dear friends, and all whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

Rick’s legacy is one of unwavering love, quiet strength, generosity, and devotion to family. He showed those around him that life’s greatest accomplishments are not measured by possessions, but by the people we love and the memories we create together.

A Celebration of Rick’s Life will be held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Central Community Church, 6100 W. Maple, Wichita, Kansas. Family and friends are invited to join in celebrating the remarkable life of a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend whose impact will never be forgotten.

In honor of Rick’s lifelong love of birds, wildlife, and the outdoors, memorial contributions may be made to the Kansas Audubon Society.Donate to Audubon of Kansas Though he may no longer walk beside us, his love will continue to guide us, his stories will continue to make us smile, and his memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.