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Rick Allen Salazar was born on November 21, 1973, in Chicago, Illinois, and grew up in Berwyn.
He graduated from Morton West High School and attended Lincoln College on a show choir scholarship. Some of his fondest memories were performing across the country with the Lincoln Express. He later continued his studies at Columbia College Chicago. Music remained a constant throughout his life, and he was an especially passionate Madonna fan, with the stories to prove it.
Rick worked as a travel agent for many years, a career that allowed him to indulge his love of travel and visit places throughout the world, including Amsterdam and Hong Kong. He and his husband Tony traveled frequently in the early years of their relationship, sharing a love of seeing new places together
Later in life, Rick became a certified makeup artist. He worked behind the scenes on countless community theatre productions and eventually worked professionally on the wig and makeup crews at both Lyric Opera of Chicago and The Atlanta Opera. Theatre was something he and Tony shared; when Tony performed on stage, Rick was always behind the scenes, making sure he was taken care of.
Rick and Tony shared more than 20 years together. They built their life in the Chicago area before relocating to Peachtree City, Georgia, in late 2021. Rick moved to Georgia to support Tony’s career, but no amount of time away changed that Chicagoland was always home.
Rick had a profound love of dogs, and they held a special place in his heart throughout his life.
Those who knew Rick often speak of his extraordinary generosity. He always found ways to give – to pick up a meal, surprise someone with a gift, or simple make another person feel cared for.
And then there was his laugh. Tony especially treasured the moments when a joke, a snarky comment, or some private bit of humor between them would bring it out. Those moments of laughing together became some of the most cherished parts of their life together.
Rick was preceded in death by his mother, Kerry. He is survived by his husband, Tony; his father, Rafael; his sister, Angie; and his aunt, Linda.
A memorial and celebration of Rick’s life is being planned in the Chicagoland area to coincide with his birthday in November. Additional details will be shared as arrangements are finalized.
Linda says
Tony, I am sorry for your loss. Rick was such a great person I will miss him so much.He will be in my heart forever
Marl Bartishell says
Im so sorry for your loss. Please let me know if you need anything or how I can help with the celebration of life here in Chicago.
Levine Family says
Our hearts are truly breaking.
Rick was so deeply loved by his extended Levine, McClain, and Upton families. It would take hours to capture the full measure of his generosity, his kindness, and that wonderful sense of humor that could light up any room.
Together with Tony, he created the most joyful, memorable family holiday dinners—gatherings filled with laughter, warmth, and the kind of love that made everyone feel at home. He was also gifted in hair and makeup, always ready to help others look and feel their best.
More than anything, Rick cherished sharing special moments with the people he cared about. His presence made ordinary days feel brighter.
We can’t begin to express how profound this loss is to our family. He will be missed beyond words.
Carrithers Tina says
Tony rick was the best nephew i loved is laugh he will be missed by s many people God gained another angel love and prayers sent to you
Cindy McDaniel says
Tony and family,
Rick and I became such great friends at Hilton Garden Inn in Peachtree City , I told Tony, the first day I met him I knew we were going to be friends ! Our other friend Patricia, Rick and I had a group text, and talked every single day, most of the time, those two woke me up because I am a night owl , when I would tell them that, Rick would always say, oh get over it 😂 He had a way to just make you love him, even though he could be a grump, When I lost my husband October 11, 2025, Rick was the first one at the funeral home, even though he had only met Danny once. I am going to miss him so very much ! He had a heart as big as they come ! Love always, Cindy
Melissa says
I owe Rick all the thanks in the world for getting me my first job ever, and for my collection of burned CDs from Madonna to Sheryl Crow. Rick was the first person to show me downtown Chicago where we saw Happy Feet in theaters… team penguinz 4ever. Rick will forever be in my heart. <3 Xoxo
Juanita says
Tony,
My heart breaks for you but also is consoled by the memories you have with him. I remember the first time I met him (I believe after the first date) and knew Rick was “a good guy”. May he RIH and style the heck out of the angels and sing his heart out!
All my love to you.
Richard Zepeda says
My heart is with you. No words. RIP.