Anchorage Daily News

Douglas resident Richard "Rick" Urion died June 24, 2008, at Bartlett Memorial Hospital in Juneau. He was 69.

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Rick Urion

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Because Rick walked the Treadwell Trail daily with his Irish setters, a celebration of his life and memorial walk along the trail will begin at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the log shelter at Sandy Beach in Douglas. A reception at the shelter will be afterward.

Born June 8, 1939, in New Jersey to Alice and Howard Urion, the lure of adventure enticed him to Alaska in 1960 and shortly after, he moved to Anchorage to work in construction.

Elected to the Alaska House of Representatives from West Anchorage in 1972, 1974 and 1976, he served as minority leader in his final term. During his legislative tenure, Urion spoke out against the capital move -- a bold move at the time for an Anchorage legislator.

After making Juneau his permanent home, he worked as a lobbyist and spent several summers driving a Princess bus, entertaining visitors while educating them about Alaska. In 2003, he became director of the Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing in the Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development, retiring in 2007.

As a history buff and accomplished videographer and photographer, he produced three highly acclaimed videos about mining in Juneau. His photographs hang in the Fairbanks Court Building.

Always a passionate advocate for Juneau, he served on the Alaska Committee during the 1994 legislative move battle.

On Feb. 29, 2008, the Alaska Legislature acknowledged his service to the state and its citizens, honoring him with a citation for his many accomplishments and contributions.

A devoted husband, father and generous friend, Rick was known for baking and delivering his famous chocolate chip cookies to his many friends inside and outside the Capitol.

He was preceded in death by his parents and older brother, Howard Jr.

He is survived by his wife, Ginger Johnson of Douglas; sons, Andrew and Michael of Seattle; brother, Earl Urion of Woodstown, N.J.; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to the Treadwell Historic Preservation and Restoration Society Inc., c/o One Sealaska Plaza, Suite 300, Juneau 99801.

Gov. Sarah Palin has ordered state flags to be lowered to half-staff Friday.

Visit the online memorial at legacy.com.

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