Richard Michael Frost, 78, of Johnstown peacefully passed away at his home on January 14, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 5, 1945, in Plainview, Nebraska, to Donald Frederick and Dorothy Elizabeth Frances (Gibson) Frost, Rich spent his early years on a family farm in Antelope County, Nebraska, alongside his three brothers.

When Rich was 12, the Frost family relocated to Grant, Nebraska, and lived there through his junior year of high school. Subsequently, his dad’s job reassignment led them to O’Neill, Nebraska, where Rich completed his senior year. The year was marked by excellence in football, basketball, and even earning the title of Homecoming King as the new face on campus.

After a brief stint at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln, Rich embarked on a trip to Alaska with his family and stayed on with his brother Bill. There, he earned his associate’s degree in electronics.

In November 1966, Rich joined the U.S. Air Force and was stationed at Lowry AFB, where fate introduced him to Linda Lea Robison. Despite being transferred to Sacramento, California, their connection endured. On August 3, 1968, Rich and Linda exchanged vows at the Good Centennial Methodist Church in Commerce City, Colorado.

Rich’s military service and top-secret clearance took him to Japan and Alaska on temporary duty. He was honorably discharged in June 1970. Settling in Omaha, he earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Lincoln- Omaha. A dedicated family man, Rich moved with his growing family to various locations, working with Picker X-ray, 3M, Johnson and Johnson, as a technician, and at Melco, US West, and Lehman Brothers as a tech writer and trainer. His career also took him around the world – Ecuador, Italy, Germany, and Japan.

Before settling in Johnstown in 2009 and retiring in 2010, Rich and Linda welcomed seven grandchildren. In retirement, he drove buses for Weld RE-5J and drove the bread truck for Hays Market. Rich cherished family time and enjoyed several cruises and family vacations and camping over the years. He loved playing cribbage with Linda and cards with family, pursuing his passion for photography, and supporting grandkids in all their endeavors. He embraced his role as “Grandpa Uber” for his grandchildren and offered his ride services when parents weren’t available.

Active in the churches they attended, Rich volunteered and led committees, and played roles for VBS and the Living Last Supper. He also helped with Meals on Wheels. He had an infectious smile and warm hugs, and Linda called him her social butterfly.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; and daughters Jaimarie (Brian) Nelson and Melissa (Brandon) Adams; along with seven grandchildren: Douglas Michael Nelson, Alexander James (Madeline) Nelson, Earnest Ruth Nelson, Margaret Grace Nelson, Samuel Frost Adams, William Eric Adams and Jacob Reese Adams. Rich leaves a legacy of love. He is also survived by his siblings: Donald William “Bill” (Sharon), Kenneth (Diane), and Danny (Patty); as well as his uncle and namesake, Dick (Sue) Gibson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; niece Theresa; brother-in-law Richard Beaman; sister-in-law Sonia Thomason; and brother-inlaw Loyd Robison.

Rich’s Life Celebration will be held at 11 a.m. January 27 at the Johnstown United Methodist Church, followed by a reception. Memorial gifts may be made to the “Johnstown UMC” in care of Adamson, 2000 47th Ave., Greeley, CO 80634. Condolences may be shared at AdamsonCares. com.