More detail on this person: MISSOULA - Richard "Rick" S. Van Pelt, Lt. Col. (ret.) US Army, 71, of Missoula, was born April 24, 1947, and died on March 23, 2019. Rick was born into an Air Force family and he, himself, spent 20 years in the Army. He served in Vietnam as a helicopter pilot where he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with "V." It was in Vietnam he was exposed to Agent Orange which led to his early heart disease. Rick had a thirst for knowledge and after leaving the Army he became a school librarian. His goal was to pass on that thirst to children. Rick was passionate about leading small groups and serving his church. He was the happiest in his life when serving Jesus. Rick was married to Kathi (Murdock) for 37 years. They loved to travel and experienced many adventures over the years. Rick is survived by his wife and two sons; two brothers; four grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Rick was predeceased by his parents, Warren and Jane, two brothers, Jay (Teresa) and John and a niece and two nephews. Complete obituary published in the Missoulian May 16, 2019
Burial information: Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery
This information was last updated 01/28/2021
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Date posted on this site: 10/13/2025
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