Richard Hugh Getty

October 21, 1953 – September 22, 2021

Rik was born to Hugh and Geraldine (Gerry) Getty on October 21, 1953 in Little Rock, AR. He had two younger siblings, sister Jan and brother Don. He was active in sports and scouts earning the rank of Eagle Scout in 1968. Growing up he especially enjoyed road trips with his Uncle Marion and Aunt Paula. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock in 1977.

Rik moved to Boulder, Colorado in 1977. In 1979 he met his wife, Julie (Nelson), at the chemistry department of the University of Colorado and they were married on April 15, 1983 (to always remember the day). Daughter Lauren completed the family.

He began his career working as a chemist. He worked at Rocky Flats for many years as a Development Research Engineer and Environmental Scientist including involvement with the closure of the site. He served as the Technical Program Manager for the Rocky Flats Coalition of Local Government from 2003-2006, transitioning and holding the same position on the Rocky Flats Stewardship Council from March-2006 until his retirement in April-2019.

Throughout his life he enjoyed various outdoor activities – hiking, cross country skiing and later, making sure the dog was well walked. His interests were varied and included keeping up sports, photography, Corvettes as well as following world events. Later in life, he enthusiastically took up golf. He enjoyed several trips to National Parks over the years as well as annual summer trips to Door County, Wisconsin with family. There were many spring break trips, but, as he would tell anyone, the highlights of his travels were visits to Alaska and later in life to Italy.

He will never be forgotten, leaving us with so many wonderful memories. He is survived by his wife, Julie, and daughter, Lauren Getty (Seattle, WA), sister Jan Burks (Chapel Hill, NC) and brother Don Getty (Nashville, TN) as well as their families. He will be greatly missed.

There will be a Celebration of Life at a later date. The family requests that if you wish to make a donation, please send to Community Food Share (www.communityfoodshare.org) or “I Have a Dream” Foundation of Boulder County (www.ihaveadreamboulder.org).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.cristmortuary.com for the Getty family.