Rick Long Vannest, loving father, grandfather, and brother, passed away doing what he loved most, fishing in the Poudre Canyon in Colorado. He went home to be with our Lord on June 8, 2023, at the age of 70. He leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished memories, and a lasting impression on those who knew him.

He was born on August 7, 1952 in Fort Morgan, CO. to Cliff and Peggy Vannest. He grew up in Fort Morgan and graduated from Fort Morgan High School in 1970. He married Linda Vannest on December 5, 1975. Together they had two children, Kara and Justin. He later moved to Bozeman, MT and then Ponca City, OK where he remarried Shelia Vannest. During his life, he worked for the City of Fort Morgan, County Assessor’s Office, Wheat Montana, St. Joesph’s Medical Hospital and Johnson Controls.

Rick loved his grandchildren and found great pleasure in the simple things. Rick’s heart overflowed with pride and affection for his grandchildren, Jaret, Kailyn, Reese, Kellen, Noël and Schug who brought immense joy into his life. He loved hearing about their sports, talking with them on the phone, and telling them stories or jokes. He was an avid fan of sports, especially the Denver Broncos. He took an early interest in collecting coins that carried into his adulthood. Rick also found solace and tranquility in the art of fishing. He spent countless hours by the water casting lines and embracing the beauty of nature. His favorite memories were camping in the mountains with his family and fishing at his grandparent’s ponds.

In addition to his immediate family, Rick leaves behind his brother Craig and sister-in-law Mary Vannest, son-in-law Kameron, daughter-in-law Niki, stepchildren Kayla and Austin Langley, who all stood by his side throughout their lives, providing unwavering support and friendship.

Rick Long Vannest will be remembered for his warm smile, gentle nature, and compassion for others. His loving spirit will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew him. Rick’s presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on as a reminder of the heartfelt impact he had on those fortunate enough to know him. May Rick’s soul find eternal peace, and may his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who mourn his loss.

He is survived by his daughter Kara (Kameron) Knudson, Jaret, Kailyn, Reese and Kellen of Wichita, KS. His son Justin (Niki) Vannest, Noël and Schug of Broken Arrow, OK. Former wives Linda Vannest of Fort Morgan, Co and Sheila Vannest of Ponca City, OK. His brother Craig (Mary) Vannest of Ponca City, OK. and good friend Don Williams of Fort Morgan, CO. Along with many cousins, nieces, nephews, stepchildren, and friends. Rick was proceeded in death by his parents, brother Chris Vannest and lifelong best friend Mic Cyprian.

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