Albert Richard (Rick) Tetreault, 73, passed away on Monday, February 19, after a long battle with cancer. He was born on October 15, 1950, in Deadwood, SD, to Albert (Bud) and Beverly Tetreault and lived most of his childhood years in Belle Fourche.

Rick, known to many as Tate, was the oldest of six children - Scott, Todd, Jedd, Betsy, and Margaret. In 1981, he married Lori (Hull) Erickson and adopted her two sons, Blane and Shaun.

Rick's employment as a lumber yard manager led the family to live in Spearfish, Gillette, Sturgis, and the suburbs of Minneapolis. Rick and Lori returned to the Black Hills in 2004; eventually, building a home outside Whitewood.

As a teenager, Rick worked for his dad at a granary and on ranches in the area, developing a strong work ethic. After graduating from Belle Fourche High School, he headed to Texas with a buddy in search of adventure. They ended up living in a car in Houston while working as a house painters and surviving on peanut butter sandwiches.

Rick eventually hitchhiked back to the Midwest then enrolled at the University of Wyoming, where he studied music and played in the marching band, before completing a degree in music education at Black Hills State. He taught music to middle school students before transitioning to a life-long career in the lumber industry.

Music played a significant role in Rick's life, starting with the marching band in high school. He played in multiple Black Hills-based bands, namely "Shells of Time", "Justice", and "The Lyle Berry Band". He toured the Midwest and even had a residency in Las Vegas with a band. In 2015, Rick was inducted into the South Dakota Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a member of "Shells of Time".

Rick wore many hats throughout his life: volunteer firefighter in Spearfish; avid golfer, including as a member in Spearfish and Sturgis; multi-instrumental musician; master carpenter, building multiple custom homes; architectural drafter; and loving father, husband, and family man, as well as a beloved friend and co-worker to many. He was well-known for his positivity and patented expressions.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents. His survivors include wife Lori, sons Blane (Bridget), and Shaun (Christel), granddaughters Amelia and Eleanor, all his siblings, and many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, and extended family members.

To honor Rick's love for cats and dogs, donations can be made to the Western Hills Humane Society or West River Spay & Neuter Coalition. A memorial event will be held in late-spring at a local golf course. It will be sure to include music and fellowship. All family, friends, and acquaintances will be invited. More information will be posted on social media at a later date.

Rick exhibited incredible strength and pride while battling cancer. He was fortunate to have the support, thoughts, and prayers of so many during his journey. Thank you to everyone who has shown compassion and grace during Rick's difficult past year and who were a part of his life.

The family would also like to thank the oncology nurses, physicians, and other staff members at Monument Health Rapid City Hospital who gave him comfort during his final days.

Online condolences may be written at www.fidler-isburgfuneralchapels.com