Richard "Rick" Stensby

Rick was born on July 24, 1955, in New Rockford, North Dakota. The family later moved to Minot, North Dakota in 1961. He graduated from Minot High School in 1973 and from the Brown College School of Broadcasting in Minneapolis, Minnesota in 1975. He later began a successful career in radio broadcasting, first in Billings, Montana as radio DJ Rick Dayton, later becoming a respected leader in the industry.

Throughout his career, Rick earned numerous accolades, including:

• Won the CD Broadcasting Corporation’s President’s Club award (1990)

• Community Airwaves Corporation Manager of the Year (1991 & 1992)

• West Dakota Radio Manager of the Year (this award was shortly discontinued after it turned into “Rick’s annual trip to Hawaii” in recognition of his achievements)

Rick married the love of his life, Lynette Hoffer, August 29, 1985, and together they built a life centered on family, love, and laughter.

Rick was extremely talented at making friends throughout his life as a master salesman by trade, and he had some extremely close buddies throughout his life that meant the world to him. From school days until today, Paul Monson and Ted Kaler were two of his most trusted friends. Countless hours, throughout the years, of fun were spent between the boys. Gary Andes and Floyd Kollobaken quickly joined his close-knit circle of friends. You could find Gary, Floyd and Rick spending many afternoons and days telling jokes and poking fun at each other while getting a cold one at the nearest watering hole.

In 1977, Rick returned to Minot following the passing of his father, Theodore. Later, Rick and his family moved to Tampa, Florida in 2018, a dream of his to be able to enjoy the New York Yankee’s Spring Training each year.

Rick was a proud father to Theodore “Ted”, born October 12, 1987, and Skyler, born January 17, 1994.

Rick will be remembered not only for his accomplishments, but for the joy he brought to everyone around him. He had a gift for storytelling and could turn even the simplest moments into a tale that left everyone laughing. His quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and larger-than-life personality made him the kind of person people naturally gravitated toward. As the voice behind the “Wheeler Dealer” radio program, he connected with countless listeners over the years. Whether on air or in person, he had a gift for making people feel welcomed and entertained.

His stories (sometimes long, perhaps embellished, and always entertaining) became the highlight of gatherings and get togethers. The sound of his laughter, the sparkle in his bright blue eyes before delivering a punchline, and the countless memories he created through humor will live on in the hearts of his family and friends forever.

Whether surrounded by loved ones, behind the wheel of his favorite car (his 2002 Thunderbird), cheering on the Yankees, or spending time with his furry companions, Rick found joy in life’s simple pleasures and shared that joy generously with everyone around him.

Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, the laughter, stories, love, and memories he leaves behind will continue to bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to know him. He had a remarkable ability to make people feel valued, welcomed, and loved. Rick’s kindness and generous spirit touched countless lives, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Rick is survived by his wife Lynette, sons Ted & Skyler, and sister Heidi [brother-in-law Maynard], in laws [Joel, Lauren, Sharron] and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents [Theodore and Margaret], siblings [Terrance and Dennis], and other loved ones who passed before him.

Rick will be cremated with Blout & Curry Carrollwood.

In lieu of flowers, Rick would like his loved ones to cheer on the Yankees and enjoy America’s favorite past time while remembering him.

The world feels a little quieter without Rick’s laughter, but the memories he created and the smiles he inspired will endure forever. His stories will continue to be told, his jokes remembered, and his love felt by generations to come.