Obituary for the Unequivocal MVP:  Col Richard Mark Fraker, U.S. Air Force, Retired

Col Richard Mark Fraker, U.S. Air Force, Retired was born to Donald Dee & Patricia Dee (Richards) Fraker on September 11, 1958, in Lincoln, Nebraska.

On October 13, 2025, in New Braunfels, Texas at the age of 67, the world lost a bright light and some flair and pizzazz in the loss of the man, the myth, the legend, Rick Fraker.

The ones that will continue to honor his legacy are his adored and deeply loved wife, co-pilot EXTRAordinaire, Debra H. Fraker of New Braunfels; mother, Patricia Fraker; 3 exceptional daughters, Abbie Campbell (Chad) of New Braunfels, Jill Clark of Huntersville, NC and Caitlin Fraker (Trace) of Tebbetts, MO; the world's most renowned grandkid squad, Mackenzie Fenton, Quinn Clark, Kaylee Campbell-White, Tenley Fenton, Jaxson Fenton and Emery Campbell; siblings, Lynne Frost (Jeff), Don Fraker (Sharon), LeAnne Fraker and Barb Bodenstab (Steve) and countless other relatives and incredible friends that became family.

Growing up as an Air Force dependent, young Rick began his travels early—journeying across the United States and living abroad in the Philippines and Panama, where he graduated from high school. His path eventually led him to Colorado, where he met his beautiful wife while Rick was attending the University of Northern Colorado. There, he earned his degree and was commissioned as an Air Force officer upon graduation.

An epic love story that started when they were 18 and excited for life's adventures, Rick and Deb were wed at 20 years old and shared 46 legendary years of marriage, 26 of which were spent ZIG-zagging across the US for Rick's distinguished Air Force career, filled with adventure, resilience, and purposeful foundations. As a skilled Huey pilot, Rick rescued countless lives with precision and calm under pressure. Together, they navigated everything from catastrophic weather events to the joyful chaos of raising three epic daughters, welcoming grandchildren, and embracing the unpredictable beauty of military life.

Once he retired from the service, Rick began another career in unmanned aircraft. Employed as a contractor, his expertise helped design, train, and impact the industry to what it is today.

In addition to being a heroic husband, formidable father, and GOAT of a grandfather (Poppa), Rick's love for ALL things food and cooking was outrageous. From driving across state lines for restaurants, to meat and 3's, to being anal about his precious knife, to making cookies and meatballs with his grandkids, grilling and chilling, creating DR Jerky, Food Network on 24/7, and list could go on forever.

Words will never fully capture the unexpected sorrow of losing Rick. His light shone wherever he went—like a magnet, drawing people in with ease and warmth. But Rick wouldn't have wanted sadness or somber attire at his celebration. He'd want candles (or glow sticks) glowing, good food flowing, red shirts always on Friday's, tequila poured generously, and stories shared with laughter and love. He'd want a true celebration—one that honors his spirit, his impact, and the joy he brought into your life.

A Memorial Service will be held at 1 PM on Thursday, October 23rd, 2025, at Cross Lutheran Church.

Please sign the guestbook at www.doeppenschmidtfuneralhome.com