Carlsbad Art and Culture

Rick Sturgis, a local crawler who frequented the benches at the corner of Grand Ave. and State Street, passed away late last Saturday night. He was found early Sunday morning laying on a bench on the corner of Roosevelt. During his 61 years he painted a colorful background, one which we now share.

A memorial has been created for Rick near the village fountain. Shoes which were given to him only if he promised to buy new socks sit snug up against a Carlsbad Flower Block, empty bottles of his choice beverage, the sports page, flowers, candles and other reminders of a honest life.

Rick’s friends and family have visited the fountain during the past days. The city has promised to leave the memorial for another day to allow time for all to stop by.

Ken, a close friend, told stories of Rick with a wide smile, but a tremble in his voice. Rick’s last meal was a carne asada burrito from Cessey’s. “Rick never wanted anything from anyone, but on his last night, he asked us to get him a burrito. When his body was found the following morning, the burrito wrapper was on the ground beside him.” Another friend told stories of her “Mr. Potatoe Head”, a nickname she gave him, while unable to hold back tears. John laughed as he reminisced about being pushed into the fountain by Rick.

Rick graduated from SDSU with a BA in mathematics. He owned a successful tree trimming business and was successful his entire life. Though he had the means to live a more traditional life, he chose to spend his days in the village with his friends.

Rick’s last page has been written, but his story will never be forgotten.

RIP Rick Sturgis 12.24.1947- 8.30.2009

Do you have a story about Rick? Please share…