Rick Tourtillott—-First Warrior

[Viper]

Could have posted to Superbar, chose here since many here knew of him from basketball games in the '80's. 
... Rick Tourtillott passed this past Sunday. He was our last First Warrior. I shared a house with 'Chief' for two yrs off N18th, and was in a dorm room next to his in Schroeder. 100% a GREAT guy. Any of you who knew him would agree. 
Here's a brief excerpt from his obituary...
...attended Marquette University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1987. During his time at Marquette, Rick served as the university's last "First Warrior," a role he held with immense honor as he authentically represented the Native American community on campus.

A proud veteran, Rick joined the ROTC program while at Marquette and commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves. Over a distinguished 20-year military career, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before his retirement. Notably, he served a combat tour in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where his dedicated leadership earned him the Bronze Star for meritorious service.

Rick was a proud descendant of the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohicans and the Menominee Nation, carrying a lifelong pride in his family's rich heritage. He frequently combined his love for his culture and his country by proudly representing the U.S. Army as a veteran flag carrier at numerous pow-wows alongside the Mohican Veterans.

Passionate about mentorship, Rick was a lifelong supporter of the Boy Scouts of America. Having achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in his youth, he stepped up as a troop leader for Troop 61 once his son joined. Through his leadership, Rick mentored and inspired countless young scouts, instilling in them the values of honor, duty, and community.

There's more, but this gives you an idea of the man. Only 61. Prayers for 'Chief's' family.

[The Sultan]

Sorry for your loss Viper. I know you have mentioned him before and was obviously a good friend of yours.

[mug644]

I knew Rick just a bit during my MU years (84-88), and was always impressed by him. Sorry to hear of his passing, but glad to have been informed. Thanks, Viper.

[MarquetteMike1977]

Thank You for posting.
Viper you texted me Sunday this.
Mike...fyi, Rick Tourtillott, 'Chief', died today. Per his wife, Chief had a heart attack.
I texted back Sunday. Same holds.
Viper, am so very sorry and sad to hear of your and our loss of Rick. He is/was a great person. We will miss him. Thoughts and Prayers are with and for Chief and his friends and family. 
Sorry again for your loss.

[MU82]

Sad to hear. My condolences to Viper and all others who knew him.

[Viper]

Quick note on the nickname. Rick introduced himself to us guys on Schroeder 10N as Chief. I don't think I knew his given name until Jr year 😂😂

[SoCalEagle]

To Viper and all who knew Rick, my sincere condolences. May he rest in peace.

[MuggsyB]

Could have posted to Superbar, chose here since many here knew of him from basketball games in the '80's. 
... Rick Tourtillott passed this past Sunday. He was our last First Warrior. I shared a house with 'Chief' for two yrs off N18th, and was in a dorm room next to his in Schroeder. 100% a GREAT guy. Any of you who knew him would agree. 
Here's a brief excerpt from his obituary...
...attended Marquette University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1987. During his time at Marquette, Rick served as the university's last "First Warrior," a role he held with immense honor as he authentically represented the Native American community on campus.

A proud veteran, Rick joined the ROTC program while at Marquette and commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Reserves. Over a distinguished 20-year military career, he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel before his retirement. Notably, he served a combat tour in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where his dedicated leadership earned him the Bronze Star for meritorious service.

Rick was a proud descendant of the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohicans and the Menominee Nation, carrying a lifelong pride in his family's rich heritage. He frequently combined his love for his culture and his country by proudly representing the U.S. Army as a veteran flag carrier at numerous pow-wows alongside the Mohican Veterans.

Passionate about mentorship, Rick was a lifelong supporter of the Boy Scouts of America. Having achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in his youth, he stepped up as a troop leader for Troop 61 once his son joined. Through his leadership, Rick mentored and inspired countless young scouts, instilling in them the values of honor, duty, and community.

There's more, but this gives you an idea of the man. Only 61. Prayers for 'Chief's' family.

I'm sorry for your loss Viper. 

[HutchwasClutch]

The world could use a lot more Rick Tourtilott's.  Gone too soon, but what a good and honorable man he was.  Sorry about his loss Viper, and anyone else who knew him.  RIP Rick in the arms of our Lord.