Richard “Rick” J. Sullivan

Richard “Rick” J. Sullivan, 69, of South Range, WI and Estero, FL, passed away at home, surrounded by family on Monday, May 31, 2021.

Rick was born August 10, 1951, in Superior. He was the second oldest of the six children of Robert and Catherine (Haugh) Sullivan.

Rick leaves his beloved wife of forty-eight years, Sharon Y. Belanger. High school sweethearts, Rick and Sharon were married March 17, 1973.

After high school, Rick spent six years proudly serving his country with the Army National Guard.

Rick devoted his career working on various railroads in different capacities, eventually retiring as a trainmaster for the Canadian National. Always one to keep busy even after retirement Rick continued to work part-time railroading.

Rick loved spending time outdoors whether it was on the golf course, the lake or driving his Mustang. He was happiest driving his family in his boat, water skiing, pulling the kids tubing and enjoying the time with his family. Rick loved spending the cold weather seasons in Florida, golfing, walking and dedicating his time serving as President of the Board for Rivers Reach III. He was a devoted Packers and Brewers fan and no matter where he was, he always made connections with other Wisconsinites.

By far, Rick’s greatest pride was his family. In addition to leaving his wife, Sharon, Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Catherine. He leaves his sons Chad (Melissa) of Attleboro, MA and Shawn (Kristin) of Superior. Rick leaves beloved granddaughters McKenzie, Madeline and Kennedy Sullivan and Taylor and Samantha Cota. Rick leaves his five dear siblings- his sisters, Mary (Chad) Pettit of Hanover, MN, and Jean (Scott) Waniger of Andover, MN; brothers, William (Yvonne) Sullivan of Danbury, WI, Timothy (Karen) Sullivan of Sarona, WI, and Patrick (Kimberly) Sullivan of Coon Rapids, MN; mother-in-law, Janice Belanger of Iron River, WI; sister-in-law, Rosann Shafer of Minneapolis, MN and several nieces and nephews; preceded in death by father-in-law Richard Belanger, sister-in-law Kathleen (Doug) Copp and brother-in-law Richard Belanger. Rick is also survived by many close friends in both Wisconsin and Florida.

Visitation will be Saturday, June 5, 2021 beginning at 10:00 am, followed immediately by an 11:00 am service, at Downs Funeral Home, Superior, with Gary Banker officiating.

Burial will be following, at St. Francis Cemetery, Superior. Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Rick’s life at Dodgie’s East End Tavern following the burial.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Rick’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

To sign the online guest book or send condolences, visit www.downsfh.com