Rick Wuori Sr.

Rick “Da Boss” Wuori Sr., Ma’iingan, of the Bear clan, age 63, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on September 24th, 2024. Rick was born on December 29th, 1960, to Roger and Mabel (Kruse) Wuori in Virginia, MN. Rick was a beloved father, husband, son, nephew, grandfather, and friend known for his resilience, strength, and generous spirt. He was a proud member of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe. Rick had a deep sense of responsibility and respect for his family, friends, and community. He carried these principles with him throughout his life, shaping his career and livelihood. Rick left a lasting impression on all those that he met, even if it was only for a moment.

Rick was married to his wife Kim on February 17th, 1982, in Virginia, MN. Together they raised their four boys in Cass Lake, MN, who always kept Rick and Kim on their toes. Rick was a dedicated businessman, always ensuring that his work aligned with the values he held dear - hard work, fairness, and giving back to the community. In 1991, Rick was the first of his family to complete a college degree as he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Management from Bemidji State University to create opportunities for not just himself but also for his family and community. He served as the Finance Director for the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe for 28 years before retiring. He had built several successful businesses on the Leech Lake Reservation including Sportsman’s Pizzeria in Cass Lake, The Players Sports Bar in Walker, and the Wuori-Free Daycare.

When Rick wasn’t working, he could be found ice fishing, watching the Vikings on Sundays, western movies, cooking shows, and watching the sunset at his cabin on Leech Lake with his family and friends. He was an amazing cook and loved to make food for his family and community.

Rick is survived by his loving wife, Kim; his mother, Mabel Kruse; sons: Chad Wuori, Corey Wuori, Ricky (Audrey) Wuori Jr., and Christopher Wuori; mother of his grandchildren, Cheryl Whitebird;  grandchildren: David Whitebird Wuori, Dedric Wuori, Malayna Wuori, Michael Wuori, Alan Wuori, Ashlynn Wuori, Ricky Wuori III, Annabelle Wuori, Lillian Wuori, Flora White, Tiara White, Aaliyah Powless; great-grandson, Greyson Wuori; brother, Todd Wuori, and aunt, Darlene Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his father, Roger Wuori; grandmother, Agnes Jackson; uncles: Ben and Buck Jackson; and aunts: Irene Mitchell and Karen Pardus.

A celebration of life open house for Rick will be held from 1-3PM on Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the White Earth Family Center in Cass Lake. Honorary pallbearers will be: Chris Pemberton, Kevin Barsness, Dave Wittner, Cory Frazer, Brian Brunelle and Rob Palmer. Arrangements provided by Whispering Pines Funeral & Cremation Service of Walker & Hackensack (whisperingpinesnorth.com).

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