Richard Craig Epperson's Obituary
“Anytime soon, you will see. Look to the moon, you’ll think of me.”—words Rick wrote, sang, and gave to his children.
On September 27, 2022 the world lost an amazing, creative, loving, funny, unique soul—Richard (Rick) Craig Epperson. Born to Richard (Dick) and Eileen Epperson, Rick entered the world ready to persevere, make people laugh, entertain and comfort with his musical genius, and to play by his own rules. Along the way he impacted many, many people—especially his family and loved ones.
Rick grew up in Cottonwood Heights with his parents, two sisters (Cristi and Vicki), and a brother (Greg). The neighborhood became a family, together they played music, celebrated holidays, had many yard parties, and camped at Moon Lake.
Rick fell in love with his next door neighbor, Shayne. They were married 18 years and together they had four children (Rikki, Justin, Jeremy, and Richard Tyler) and eight grandchildren (Ashton, Emree, Brinley, Jarron, Chloe, Paisley, Ollie, and Vivie). Rick was an amazing father. He loved taking his family to the mountains to camp and fish, took pride in his home and yard, and taught us the love of laughter and music.
Rick was a strong man who worked extremely hard to provide for his family. He had an impeccable work ethic. Despite being a hard worker, he always found time for the things he loved—song writing, playing guitar, and golfing.
Of all the amazing things Rick accomplished, his number one passion was music. Following in the footsteps of his grandfather (music teacher and radio personality, Emery Epperson) and father (jazz drummer Dick Epperson), Rick was an exceptional musician. He could pick up any instrument and play any song by ear. He was a creative songwriter, composing hundreds of songs with complex chord changes, detailed harmonies and meaningful lyrics. Rick often wrote a new song every day, it seemed the music would just flow from his soul.
Rick shared his passion of music with his children, teaching them to play many instruments. They all embrace music to this day and singing and playing music with their dad are among their most cherished memories.
Along with music, Rick was passionate about golf from early on. Nothing could keep him away from a golf course. In addition to playing golf, Rick loved designing golf courses and shared them with other people to play online all around the world.
Later in life Rick reconnected with Diane and formed a wonderful bond, spending every day together. Rick enjoyed his retirement by watching movies and sports, and spending time with his grandson Ollie.
Rick was a perfectionist, his attention to small details was phenomenal. Whether it was designing golf courses, detailing his car, working in the yard, projects around the house, or composing music—whatever Rick touched, it turned out perfect. Nothing could stop Rick from doing what he loved. Rick always pushed forward, despite what life handed him. He wrote in one his songs about when life gets hard, “It’s okay. You’ve got to live your life from day to day.”
The world lost an amazing and unique soul and this place will never be same. We love you Dad, we miss you, and can’t wait until we get to see you again!
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