Richard "Rick" Catlin

April 2, 1954 – April 3, 2026 

Richard Glyndon “Rick” Catlin passed away peacefully on April 3, 2026, in Wilmington, North Carolina, at the age of 72. Rick’s life was defined by unwavering love, dedicated service, leadership, and a deep commitment to his family, his profession, and his community. 

Born on April 2, 1954, in Atlanta, Georgia, Rick grew up facing hardships from an early age, confronting the challenges of a difficult and often uncertain childhood. Despite these obstacles and guided by the steady influence of his grandparents, he developed the resilience, grit, and determination that would come to define his character. Those early experiences fueled an extraordinary work ethic and a fearless approach to life. As Rick often said, “When you start with nothing, there is nothing to lose.” With this foundation, he rose through hard work and perseverance to build a life that truly embodied the American Dream—one of purpose, profound impact, and legacy. 

He began his college education at Georgia State University and later graduated from the University of South Florida in 1978. The following year, Rick relocated to Wilmington, North Carolina, where he began what would become a remarkable 44-year career in engineering and hydrogeology. He was the Founder and President of Richard Catlin & Associates, Inc., the namesake firm that would later become CATLIN Engineers and Scientists. Rick led his company with integrity, vision, and excellence, pioneering work across environmental, civil, and geotechnical fields while delivering trusted solutions to local, state, and federal clients. Among his many professional distinctions, Rick took the greatest pride in holding both Professional Engineer (PE) and Professional Geologist (PG) licensure in North Carolina, the state he loved deeply. 

Rick’s impact extended far beyond his professional work. Grounded in a strong sense of stewardship, he lived by the mission to “leave the world better than he found it.” For more than 30 years, he served as an active leader and member of numerous organizations focused on environmental stewardship, coastal preservation, and infrastructure improvement, including: 

·             Chairman, Wilmington–New Hanover County Ports, Waterways, and Beach Commission 

·             Chairman, North Carolina Water Resources Congress 

·             Chairman, North Carolina Shore and Beach Preservation Association 

·             Member, North Carolina Petroleum Underground Storage Tank Funds Council 

·             Member, Wilmington Passenger Rail Study Commission 

·             Member, North Carolina Water Resources Research Institute Advisory Council

·             Member, North Carolina Commission of Public Health 

Consistent with his passion for public service, Rick also served as a County Commissioner for New Hanover County, as well as a Representative in the North Carolina House. These roles allowed him to further advocate for, strengthen, and protect his community and the environment he cherished. 

Above all, Rick was devoted to his family. He shared a loving 52-year marriage with his wife, Janice. He was a proud father to his daughter, Kristi (Dave) Meinhold, and his son, Jason (Jan) Catlin. He cherished his grandchildren, Alexis and Jackson Meinhold, and Mila and Giana Catlin, with additional grandchildren expected soon. Rick is also survived by his brother, Andy Catlin, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert M. Catlin and Janelle C. Caron, and his brother, Steve Catlin. 

Rick had a rare gift for connecting with people. He treated his friends, his children's friends, his employees, and his colleagues like family, leaving a lasting impression with his compassion and generosity. He never hesitated to go above and beyond to make a difference in someone’s life. 

Rick’s faith was central to his life. He was a devoted member of Wrightsville United Methodist Church and lived a life guided by faith and honesty, attending services through his final days. 

The family wishes to extend their utmost gratitude to the many individuals who supported them throughout Rick’s courageous battle with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). In particular, they would like to thank Pam Wolski and Traci Munson, as well as the many other dedicated caregivers, for their unwavering compassion, love, and kindness. 

Rick lived with purpose, led with integrity, and loved without limits—true to his guiding mission, he made the world a better place. 

A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Andrews Mortuary & Crematory, 1617 Market Street, Wilmington, North Carolina.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 18, at 11:00 a.m. at Wrightsville United Methodist Church, 4 Live Oak Drive, Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Rick’s honor to one of his beloved local charities: the Bellamy Mansion Museum of History and Design Arts or the Wilmington Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, donations to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration are greatly appreciated.