HOUSEL, Richard Charles (Rick)

The Daily Courier, Prescott, Arizona Saturday, January 22, 2011 Richard Charles Housel, "Rick" to his friends, passed away in his sleep just after New Year's Day in Prescott, Ariz. A number of health issues contributed to his death. For the past several years, Rick worked at the Veterans Administration in Prescott, most recently in the TeleCare Department, assisting other vets. Prior to that he played a role in the Public Affairs/Volunteer Services Department. He loved working at the VA with co-workers who make service to veterans their mission. He especially liked working with vets in recovery and participating in events that celebrated the service and achievement of vets. Rick was a graduate of Tempe High School in Tempe, Ariz., where he lettered in speech and debate as well as tennis. He focused on history and communication at Maricopa County Community Colleges (Mesa CC and Gateway CC) and attended Yavapai County Community College. While attending Mesa Community College, he worked at Motorola's Government Electronics Group. He then joined the Unites States Air Force, serving as a Field Hospital Supply Clerk in England. After returning to the U.S., he worked in Phoenix until he re-enlisted to aid in the Desert Storm conflict, where he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. Rick is remembered most for his sense of humor and his desire to help. He shared a love of history and of aerospace science with anyone who would listen. He liked drawing famous buildings, especially those of the ancient world. He is survived by his parents, Jan Bobbett (Kris) and David Housel (Dori); daughter Chantelle Delaney (Jack); two grandchildren, Mikey and Mia Rose; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws and friends. He will be especially missed by his beloved brother Philip Housel (Cynthia). A service will be at the chapel on the VA Hospital grounds in Prescott at 10 a.m. on Jan. 26, 2011. Following a reception, a military ceremony will be at the Prescott National Cemetery at 1 p.m., with the help of American Legion Post 6. At the conclusion of the ceremony, Rick's ashes will be interred in the columbarium wall at the Prescott National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to U.S. Vets in Prescott, 500 Highway 89 N., Prescott, AZ 86313, or to any favorite charity. Log onto www.ruffnerwakelin.com to view and sign Rick's guestbook. Arizona Ruffner Wakelin Funeral Home assisted the family with final arrangements. Information provided by survivors.