Donald W. Rick

Watertown - Donald “Don" W. Rick, 58, passed away peacefully at his home on July 7, 2026, surrounded by his loving wife and children.

Don was born on December 8, 1967, in Rochester, New York, to David and Marilyn (Padgham) Rick. A gifted student-athlete, he graduated from Wayne Central High School in 1986. He attended SUNY Alfred, where he played collegiate soccer, before transferring to SUNY Cortland to continue both his education and soccer career. He earned his bachelor's degree in education from SUNY Cortland and later received a master's degree in physical education from SUNY Potsdam.

Don began his teaching career with the Watertown City School District before joining the Carthage Central School District, where he dedicated more than 30 years to educating and inspiring students, spending most of his career at Black River Elementary School. He retired from teaching at the end of 2023 and continued serving the district through the spring of 2024.

For 20 years, Don shared his life with Christa, his partner, best friend, and beloved wife. Together, they built a home centered on love, family, and unwavering support.

He is survived by his parents, David and Marilyn Rick; his beloved wife, Christa Rick; his children, Mitchell Rick and his fiancée, Magdelana Curtis; Taylor Rick and her partner, Sean Cerrone; Carson Rick; and Casey Rick; his sister, Julie Kealy and her husband, Stephen; his brother, Dan Rick; his nieces, Danielle Horton, Venus Burnup, and Astrid Burke; his nephews, Matthew Kealy, Joseph Kealy, Noah Burnup, and Kadin Burnup; and many extended family members and dear friends.

Those who knew Don knew a man defined by his unwavering work ethic, quiet strength, generous heart, and deep devotion to his family. Whether in the gym, on the athletic field, or at home, he led by example every day. Some of his happiest moments were spent coaching his own children in every sport. For Don, being a father was never a part-time job—it was the role he treasured most. His children never had to wonder whether Dad would be there; he always was.

As a teacher and coach, Don influenced thousands of young people throughout his career. Through his example, he instilled the values of integrity, perseverance, teamwork, and respect. He was the first to lend a helping hand and never sought recognition in return. Whether a student needed encouragement, a friend needed advice, or a neighbor needed help with a project, Don gave his time generously and without hesitation.

In April 2023, Don was diagnosed with glioblastoma. True to the way he lived his life, he faced the disease with extraordinary courage, grit, and determination. He fought relentlessly for more than three years, far exceeding every expectation while continuing to put his family before himself. His strength throughout his battle inspired everyone who knew him and reflected the resilience that defined his life.

Outside of work, Don found his greatest joy in the outdoors—hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family at their Adirondack cottage. He was a gifted carpenter who could build just about anything with his hands, and he rarely worked without rock music playing in the background. He was known for his quick wit, sarcastic sense of humor, and ability to make those around him laugh at just the right moment.

Yet of all the things Don built throughout his life, nothing made him prouder than the lives he helped build in his children. He built with his hands, taught with his heart, coached with passion, and loved his family with everything he had.

Although his time with us was far too short, Don's legacy will live on in the character, kindness, resilience, and values he instilled in his children, his students, his athletes, and everyone fortunate enough to know him. His steady presence, unwavering strength, and unconditional love will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, July 17, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Lundy Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Inc., 500 State Street, Carthage. A private funeral service will be held for the family prior to calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Glioblastoma Foundation or Hospice of Jefferson County.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Lundy Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Inc., 500 State St., Carthage. Online condolences in his memory may be made at www.lundyfuneralhome.com