Richard H “Rick” Vollertsen, 61, was unexpectedly taken from his family on February 10, 2018. He passed away on the family farm where he was born, raised, and continued to live in Palmyra, Nebraska.
Rick adored his three children Jake, Sarah and Erin; Roxie, his grandchildren, the farm, and a good Elmore Leonard novel, in no particular order. Rick enjoyed telling a good story which always began with, “Well, you know what…” and passing the time with a cold beer on the tailgate of his pick-up. He was passionate about his work as a computer programmer with State of Nebraska, and readily took on difficult projects. When he wasn’t working, you could usually find Rick on the farm with his pup Blue, tinkering on a tractor or taking a relaxing drive to town.
He devoted his life to his children, never missing a practice, game or graduation. He shared with his kids his love for reading and movies, the game of basketball, and the importance of an education. He was known to proudly share his children’s accomplishments, likely bragging about Jake’s academic achievements and Sarah and Erin’s state basketball run (he laid claim to their silver medals). He joyfully danced at all three of his children’s weddings, happily welcoming his sons-in-law Matt and Jacob and daughter-in-law Julie.
In 2008, Rick became Papa to his first granddaughter Greer. He became a frequent shopper at the “baby doll store,” and as she grew, he became a steadfast member of her cheering section at volleyball games. A few years later, he was surprised with the news that he would be a Papa to twin girls Jenny and Alice. He shared with them his famous penny trick and building block towers. Soon thereafter, he got not one but two grandsons only five months apart, Sutton and Barrett; he liked to show them his “pet” bull Teddy and this winter he enjoyed watching them wrestle at their first meet. In September of 2017, he welcomed his newest granddaughter Eden, carefully cradling her in his arms when he popped by for frequent visits after she was born. All of his grandchildren were especially fond of four-wheeler and tractor rides with their Papa on the family farm.
Rick found love later in life. He was devoted to Roxie and expanded his family by welcoming her children Colin and Kathleen, Brandon and Sarah, Nicole and Sean, Scott and Roxie’s first granddaughter Annabelle. Rick and Roxie enjoyed living on the farm, dancing, James Taylor music, and playing jokers.
Rick was a devoted son, brother, and uncle. He is survived by brother, Michael Vollertsen, Rita; sisters Amy Fitzpatrick, Tom; and Julie Melli, Leo; and nephews. He is proceeded in death by his parents; Norman and Elva Vollertsen; brother, Randall Vollertsen.
Family will greet friends and loved ones from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, February 15th at Roper & Sons South Lincoln Chapel, 3950 Hohensee Drive.
A celebration of life will be held at Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 955 C Street, Palmyra, NE on Friday, February 16th at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family for a donation to local high school athletics and arts booster clubs.