Richard Miles McCool

A celebration was held in lieu of a service at the request of Rick McCool who passed away peacefully at his home in Gig harbor, WA surrounded by his family on March 4, 2013. Richard Miles McCool III was born in Norman, Oklahoma on September 9, 1948 to Carole E. Larecy and Richard M. McCool Jr. Rick, being raised a "navy brat", lived in exotic places like Thailand and Japan. His early sense of adventure led him to join the Merchant Marines at age 17, much to the chagrin of his father, a Naval Academy graduate and recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor. Rick's stories of working on freighters plying the waters of Southeast Asia are family legend. He returned to his home in Norman, OK to attend the University of Oklahoma graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism. The McCool family history, rich in military and political tradition led Rick to enlist in the Marine Corps after graduation. His military career ended in the rank of First Lieutenant. Rick worked in many different fields including banking, journalism and social work before retiring in 2008. Rick had a passion for crossword puzzles, traveling, cooking, the Seattle Mariners and OU college football. Regardless of where he was in the world, he remained a true Boomer Sooner standing by his Oklahoma Sooners through thick and thin. Rick could always be found with a smile, quick wit and a funny story recalling his adventures in Japan and Thailand. His phone announcement of "It's the Fatman!" would always bring a laugh and will be fondly remembered. Rick is survived by his wife Cindy, daughter Shana, son Michael Nicks, daughter Cristin Nicks-DuPont, sister Carolyn, brother John, mother C. Elaine, Aunt Fran, cousins, friends, and a long line of nieces and nephews who all loved their uncle Rick. He will be truly missed. Until we meet again may God hold you in the hollow of his hand. We love and miss you Dad. See ya! Your loving family