POLSON – Rick Dale Meidinger was born Aug. 17, 1957, in Ronan and passed away in Polson on Sunday, Aug. 26, 2012. He was the son of Dale Meidinger and Viola (Sias) Meidinger.
Rick was husband to Carol (Gibson) Meidinger, married on April 26, 1980, in Polson; and father to Ashley Larson and Kdee Pratum. He was older brother to Kim Lehl, Debbie Wolverton and Randy Meidinger.
In 1976, Rick joined the Coast Guard. When his dad passed in 1977, he was honorably discharged so that he could come back home and help his family with their commercial mail route contract. He completed the contract for his dad in 1979.
Rick then started his career as a surveyor’s assistant/laborer at Mission Valley Power. He transferred to the Forestry Department in 1980 as an engineering equipment operator. Three years later, he returned to the power company. Soon after, he was chosen for a position in the newly created Lineman Apprenticeship Program. Rick continued to excel, holding various positions such as president of the union. The last position he held was foreman III. He earned multiple awards along the way.
Rick loved spending time with his family and friends. He enjoyed scuba diving with his wife, playing on the lake and many outdoor activities. He loved metal work and working in his shop. Everyone knew Rick always had a project in the works. He was the guy to go to if you needed a helping hand or a creative solution.
Rick is survived by his wife, Carol Meidinger of Polson; and two daughters, Ashley of Kirkland, Wash., with her husband Matt Larson and their son Parker, and Kdee of Redmond, Wash., with her husband Eric Pratum. Rick is also survived by his siblings, Kim (Jim Lehl) of Nevada, Debra (Laramie Wolverton) of Arlee and Randy (Michelle) of Arlee. He also had numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He was loved by many.
He was predeceased by his parents, Dale and Vi Meidinger; and his in-laws, Robert and Dorothy Gibson.
The service will be held at the Polson Softball Complex at 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 31. There will be time to visit with the family immediately after. Please contact Grogan Funeral Home with any questions.
“My father didn’t tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it.” – Clarence B. Kelland.