NELS RICHARD (RICK) DAY
Rick Day was born on March 27, 1953 to Ainsworth and Flora Mae (Anderson) Day in Hot Springs and raised in Plains, MT. He passed away peacefully on March 25, 2023. Rick obtained his Bachelor’s degree from Montana State University and a Masters from the University of Washington. He began his career as a police officer in West Yellowstone where he met his future wife, Jan. They were married in 1977 and blessed with three amazing children; Chad, Brandon and Jennell Day.
Over the years Rick lived on both the east and west coasts while always calling Montana home. He served in Public Administration as Administrator of Law Enforcement Services, Director of MT Department of Corrections, Director of Washington State Gambling Commission, and Executive Director of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. He was best known for his strong leadership and integrity to always do what was right for the people he served; a trait he instilled in his children. Most of all, Rick was a loving and caring husband, father and friend.
Rick is survived by his wife Jan, children Chad (Chris) Day, Brandon (Lindsey) Day, and Jennell Day, Grandchildren Grace, Gabriel, Kale and Kaydia Day, brother Ainsworth (Buck) and wife Sharon Day. His dear friends have become brothers through the years and his sister in laws, sisters.
A funeral mass will be held at S S Cyril & Methodius Church, 120 W Riggs St, in East Helena on April 21, 2023 at Noon. Rick’s hobby as a brewer will be celebrated following the service with a Celebration of Life reception at the Lewis & Clark Brewery Co., 1517 Dodge Ave, Helena.
We have been blessed for having known Rick and thank him for sharing his life with us.
Cindy (Peyer) Hart says
He was a brother to me, a great friend to my husband, and the best uncle to my kids! We will see you again my friend
Cynthia Miner says
So very sorry to hear of your loss! Rick was always a fine and helpful person. Sending prayers to his family and friends. Cindy and Ray Miner
Mary Cole says
So sorry to hear about Rick. My thoughts and prayers to all his family. I know he will be missed by many.
Rosanne Haugen says
Sending prayers to the family. We spent many hours in high school playing pinochle. I know there will be big card games going on now
Cj says
So sad to hear of Rick’s passing. He was the most wonderful director at Dept of Corrections
Teena Sanks Hoshor says
I went to High School with Rick Day..He was a year ahead of me…He was always polite and kind towards everyone..He was a wonderful basketball player..May God give comfort and peace to his family
Maryann Dooley says
I am so sad to hear the news of Rick’s passing. I had the pleasure of working for Rick as his assistant when he was the Executive Director for the Massachusetts Gaming Commission, he was a wonderful, kind person. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Carol Harwood Nowlen says
I always admired Rick – I grew up in Plains and spent my early years of life just across the alley from his family. I remember hanging little tiny May day flower baskets I made on the door for Maisey his mom. I am so grateful for the light he brought into this world and for his amazing life of service. May the memory of him and his life example continue to bless all for generations.
ELLEN MARTEN says
Sorry to hear about Rick. Growing up in a small town we all knew each other and their families. I went to school with Bucko. Rick lived an amazing life and memories will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew him. May the family find peace during this time with the sharing of all the memories and love from people whose lives were touched in some way by Rick.
Kathleen Lane says
So sorry to hear of his passing…prayers and love to his family and friends!
Steve Crosby says
I served with Rick at the Mass Gaming Commission. Rick was a man of great integrity and good will, and we were honored to have him in Massachusetts. Jan, Helen and I send our deep condolences.
Wayne Baker says
Rick and I played sports together at plains and I remember him as one who always gave everything he had. He was highly competitive. I am sorry to hear of his passing and know that his loved ones will have many good memories of him
Lisa Shea says
I was so lucky to have Rick as an uncle. He was always there for the big and small moments in my life. Thank you for being a part of my life.
Bruce Stebbins says
Enjoyed the chance to work alongside Rick during his tenure at the Mass Gaming Commission. He was a kind and thoughtful man with a strong sense of integrity. Katie and I send our condolences to Jan and his wonderful family.
Glen J Cuchine says
Dear Jan and family, i’m so sorry to hear about Rick’s passing. What a wonderful man, we were all blessed to know him. May your many happy memories of Rick comfort you during this difficult time. All the best to you all.
Rick Later says
With SINCERE SYMPATHY R.I.P.
Rick & Cooky Later
James Molloy says
Rick was a very good person who lived a good life. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Jan, and his three children.
Michael R. King says
Jan and family,
Very saddened to learn of your loss. I very much enjoyed working with Rick when he was DOC Director. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Mike King
Joe says
Uncle you have any old picture? Buddy