Recker, Richard Bernard Jr. "Rick" 77, of Minneapolis, died February 19, 2022. Preceded in death by grandparents, and by father and mother, Richard and Lucille Recker. Survived by son Richard (Karrie) Recker III, daughter Stephanie (Aaron) Ziebarth, and daughter Stacy (Jovanti) Brooks; sister Patricia (Robert) Dykoski, brother Charles "Tony" Recker (Diana Bibeau), sister Mary Zappetillo (Deb Anderson), as well as seven grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
It is impossible to calculate the impact Rick Recker had on the Minnesota running community. As word of his passing spread, the term "legend" was frequently used. Rick was a runner at Minneapolis Roosevelt High School and an intramural champion at the University of Minnesota. From those days in the late 1950s to now, Rick's life has been involved with running at all levels. He measured 634 and certified 1485 courses, competed in almost 3000 races, officiated at countless track and field meets, and was counted on to be present at most MN running events. Recent achievements include being inducted into both the Minnesota Track & Field Hall of Fame and Grandma's Marathon Hall of Fame. He also received a lifetime achievement award from the Minnesota Distance Runners Association in 1993. His bedroom shelves are sagging with additional trophies and medals. He has presided over several running organizations, begun and improved numerous running events, and provided counsel and encouragement to countless athletes - ranging from world-class to aspiring. He started and operated the Dome Running Program (indoor winter running) for 31 years and also successfully started a new running program at the US Bank Stadium. Rick wanted running to be fun and available to everyone, as evidenced by the projects he took on, including advocating and networking for the non-profit Bolder Options.
He was an adventurer, pioneer, and world traveler. Rick visited almost 70 countries, particularly drawn to the ones people said to avoid. He avidly supported the Twin Cities jazz scene. Trivia nights with friends were a beloved outlet for his wealth of knowledge. He was grateful for his River Towers community.
Despite all this, family came first. He was the best dad, brother and "PaPa Rick" that he could be.
Rick will be interred at Crystal Lake Cemetery. Rather than a traditional service, Rick wanted to throw a thank-you party for his loved ones. Watch his Facebook page for information. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Bolder Options (bolderoptions.org), a non-profit mentoring organization with which Rick has been involved since its early years.
Published on February 23, 2022
