Richard E. Westling, 48, was born on June 13, 1963 in Flagstaff to Stanley (Buzz) and Pearl Westling.He passed away in Phoenix on September 29, 2011 following a hard and
valiant battle with cancer.Rick attended Mt Elden Elementary School (now Killip), East Flagstaff Junior High and graduated from Coconino High in 1981.While at Coconino he excelled in football as a linebacker, breaking many of the school's tackle records.His football honors included being chosen for First Team Conference and First Team State.After receiving a Police Science degree from NAU, he began his long employment with American Express.On September 14, 1991 Rick was united in marriage to Shari Rutter. They were blessed with two awesome sons, JT and Garrett. He was a loving husband, devoted father and great son and he will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

At four years old, Rick became a fan of the Miami Dolphins and this continued throughout his life.When Rick was a youth and young adult he played baseball and softball and was a great Diamondbacks fan.As a father his sports interests expanded to soccer and greatly supported his sons, by following, traveling and attending their games.He also enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting and vacationing with his family.

In addition to Shari, JT & Garrett, Mom & Dad, Rick is survived by brothers and sisters-in-law, Jim & Marsha, Flagstaff, Joe & Linda, Beaverton, OR, Bob & Robin, Jacksonville, FL, & Victor and Kim, Flagstaff, in-laws Jackie & Anthony Lucero, Flagstaff, Ed & Joy Rutter, Flagstaff, Bob and Traci Rosselet, Spokane WA, and Kari Nall, Glendale, AZ, 12 nieces and nephews and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Until we all meet again we love you, Rick.

Services will be held Sunday October 9, 2011 at 1 PM at Hansen Desert Hills Chapel, 6500 E. Bell Rd, Phoenix, AZ.In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of Rick.Please visit www.hansenmortuary.com to submit online condolences.