Oct. 11, 1952 ~ April 7, 2025
Richard Michael Seklecki, (AKA “Rick” or “Doc”) was born in Buffalo, New York, on Oct. 11, 1952, to Leroy W. and Genevieve Seklecki. He was the second of three sons in the family. Rick grew up in Alma, New York, attending Iroquois Central High School, where he excelled in wrestling. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and trapping at a young age, and he carried his love of the outdoors throughout his life.
After high school, Rick joined the U.S. Air Force, serving in Vietnam for two years, volunteering to be a helicopter door gunner. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. After his release from active duty, Rick worked in construction in the Buffalo area and obtained his undergrad degree from Buffalo State college.
In 1980 Rick relocated to Texas and became a police officer with the Plano Police Department. Rick was recognized as a dedicated and trusted officer, working in patrol and SWAT before becoming a detective and later serving as commander of the Tri-City Police training Academy. His involvement in police training led to his ambition for and love of teaching. He also pursued furthering his own education during this time, receiving two master’s degrees.
After 12 years with the Plano P.D., Rick felt called to become a full-time instructor. He returned to NY and completed his PhD at Syracuse University. Rick taught at several colleges in New York, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. In 2007 he accepted a professor’s position in Criminal Justice with Minot State University in Minot, North Dakota, where he became a tenured professor and department chair. Rick was a “student magnet,” having a strong natural rapport and connection with his students. He was consistently ranked as a top professor by students, noted for his passion for service, and an engaging, caring friend to all at the University. During his time in North Dakota, Rick also served as Justice of the Peace, followed by Mayor of Max, North Dakota.
In 2015 Rick retired from Minot State, receiving the honorary title of “professor emeritus.” He then moved back to Texas where he accepted a teaching position with the Plano Police Department Academy. Upon his second retirement, he wanted to spend his time fishing, and he moved to Colorado, eventually settling in Meeker.
In Meeker, Rick, known as “Doc,” spent his days working part-time at the White River Museum, trout fishing, handing out caramel candies, making friendly conversations, and always wearing his Vietnam Veteran’s hat.
Over the years, Rick’s health deteriorated due to Agent Orange exposure in Vietnam. He struggled in many ways with his physical and cognitive decline, eventually preferring to limit contact with even close friends and family in his later years.
Rick was a genuine, humble, and caring person. He emotionally touched many people throughout his life. He was a loyal and protective friend. He always remained very proud of both his military and police department service.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Lee Sexton, and younger brother Robert “Bob” James Seklecki, of Alaska. Rick’s older brother, Leroy W. “Roy” Seklecki, Jr., died in 2013. Also survived by Anna T. La Hood, widow of Roy Seklecki, and many cousins.
A celebration of Rick’s life will be held in Meeker on May 17 at 10:30 a.m. at 517 Park Ave. (the Museum Heritage Culture Center building). His ashes will later be interred at the Colorado State Veteran’s Cemetery in Grand Junction, Colorado.
