In Memory

Richard Rukavina

Nov. 13, 1952 ~ Feb. 12, 2014
Richard Tony Rukavina our beloved son, brother, uncle, dear friend, and valued colleague passed away suddenly at home of a heart attack. He was 61. 
Rick grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah and after attending college at Utah State University, he moved to Reno, Nevada to pursue his life as a geologist, businessman, and avid recreationist. Richard worked very hard in his career as a knowledgeable exploration geologist with an incredible work ethic, an eye for detail, and amazing organizational skills. Richard enjoyed his leisure time by becoming proficient at snow skiing, golf, and tennis. As his back deteriorated, fly fishing became Rick's favored sport and he travelled the world fly fishing with his best friends. Richard opted for few material goods but rather a life so very rich with travels throughout the world that took him to dozens of locations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Western Europe, Argentina, Columbia, Peru, Chile and New Zealand. 
Rick had a deep devotion to family and love for his sweet parents Patricia and Tony, two brothers John (Christy) and Larry, and his little sister Ramona. Richard also leaves behind two nieces Samantha and Amelia, two nephews Robert and Christopher, and great nephew Jaxon David. He leaves behind endearing friends and many admiring friends and colleagues. 
Fondly called Ricky by his closest friends in Reno, Rick was always great company with an interesting story to tell or a lending hand. Though his life is painfully short for those loved ones left behind, there is comfort in knowing while Richard was alive on this mortal plane, he truly lived. Richard will be deeply missed by the many people who loved him and the loss seems unbearable. But his presence and spirit will always be in our hearts and beings as he flies through the starry skies above….We love you Rick…