March 22, 1938 – April 19, 2026
Richard “Dick” Paul McKearney was born in Quincy, Massachusetts, to Norborth and Gertrude McKearney. After graduating high school, he trained in drafting at Quincy Trade School, followed by an enlistment to the Air Force in 1956. He was stationed in Japan for two years after his initial training and upon returning to the States he was discharged from the military. He then decided to re-enlist and went back for more service and training. While he was stationed at Orlando AF Base in Florida, Dick met and married Susan Francis (Nosalik) on February 8, 1964. Together the couple had three children and was stationed coast to coast across the United States, as well as overseas. Richard dedicated twenty-eight years to the Air Force – expanding his photography, graphic design, drafting and supervisory skills until his 1984 retirement in Colorado Springs.
After retirement, Dick continued his creative endeavors with drawing pastel portraits of his family and friends and tooled delicate, beautiful leather works both large and small. Dick shared his love of the West through his many Colorado landscape and hot air balloon event photos. Dick continued to challenge himself by learning new computer systems. He could also be found spending multiple hours tinkering with his motorcycle and going on rides for different events and charities. When he could, Dick visited with his family far and wide.
He will be remembered as a practical man who had a constant strong presence, and everyone will especially miss his rare smiles and belly laughs.
Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Norborth Jr and Gertrude, as well as siblings: Norborth III, Patricia (Howard), and Donald McKearney. His legacy lives on through his wife of 60 years, Susan McKearney; his children: Elizabeth Erps (Eric), Richard P. McKearney Jr. (Mary), and Kathleen McKearney; as well as his many grand- and great-grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. His final resting place is the Pikes Peak National Cemetery as of May 7, 2026.
Memorial contributions in his name may be made to the American Cancer Society and the American Red Cross.