Erik Doe, lovingly known to many as Rick, passed away on July 2, 2026, at Ogden Regional Medical Center in Ogden, Utah, from natural causes related to heart failure. He was born on October 12, 1945, in Salt Lake City, Utah, and lived a life marked by service, skill, devotion, and quiet strength.

Rick graduated from East High School in 1963 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Utah in 1967. He soon began a distinguished professional journey that reflected both his intelligence and his character. He spent 40 years as a Lead Structural Engineer for Boeing, retiring in 2007. Throughout his career, he was highly respected by his peers for his meticulous attention to detail and for the care he showed in mentoring junior engineers. His work left a lasting mark, and among his proudest accomplishments were three patents for aerospace safety components.

His life was also shaped by honorable military service. Rick served in the United States Army from 1968 to 1972 and was stationed in Vietnam with the Corps of Engineers. He was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant. During his service, he received the Silver Star, an honor that stood as a testament to his courage and dedication.

Those who knew Rick will remember a man of dry wit, steady patience, and quiet but fierce loyalty to his family. He was a man of few words, but when he spoke, everyone listened. He carried himself with humility, earning deep respect not by seeking attention, but by living with consistency, integrity, and care.

Outside of work, Rick found joy in the outdoors and in the satisfaction of working with his hands. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved fly fishing and hiking. He spent much of his free time restoring a 1965 Ford Mustang in his garage, and he enjoyed mastering the art of woodworking. These interests reflected the same patience, precision, and appreciation for craftsmanship that defined so much of his life.

For his family, some of the most treasured memories are the simplest ones. They fondly remember his famous Sunday morning buttermilk pancakes, a tradition that brought everyone together around the table. He also took annual summer road trips to Zion National Park, creating lasting memories through time spent together in places he loved. One of his greatest joys was teaching each of his grandchildren how to cast a fishing line, spending hours with them in quiet instruction, encouragement, and companionship.

Rick was also a proud 50-year member of the local Rotary Club, a reflection of his long-standing commitment to community and service.

Above all, Rick was devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jane Doe; by his children, Michael Doe and Sarah Smith; and by his in-laws, Emily and David. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Jacob, Mia, Ethan, Chloe, and Lucas, each of whom knew his steady love and patient guidance. The family he built and nurtured was the center of his life, and his presence within it will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Mary Doe, and by his brother, Richard Doe.

A visitation will be held on July 9, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory in Urbandale, Iowa. A funeral service will be held on July 10, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Grace Fellowship Church in Des Moines, Iowa. For both services, guests are invited to wear a touch of navy blue.

Rick’s life was one of purpose, loyalty, and enduring love. He served his country with honor, approached his work with excellence, and gave his family the very best of himself. His memory will live on in the stories he told, the lessons he passed down, the traditions he created, and the love he gave so faithfully.