Richard Joseph "Rick" Solberg
Mar 8, 1950 -
Oct 23, 2025
Our beloved husband, father, grandfather and disciple of Jesus Christ, Richard Joseph Solberg, peacefully returned to his Heavenly Father on Oct. 23, 2025, surrounded by his family who completely adored him.
Rick was born on March 8, 1950, in Philadelphia, Pa., to Mae and Dick Solberg. His life was one of devotion, to his Savior, to his family, his family owned and operated business, Natural Pantry, and serving and loving his fellow Alaskans. He was born the oldest of five boys and was a natural born leader, protector and jokester. He was proud of his family and honored to carry the Solberg name. He graduated from Anchorage West High School in 1969, starting a tradition that all of his children followed. Go West High Eagles!
On Jan. 6, 1972, Rick married his sweetheart and eternal companion, Vikki Hosman, for time and all eternity in the Mesa, Ariz., temple. Their marriage was a partnership filled with faith, laughter and hard work. Together, they built both a home and a legacy of love. As young parents they were determined to create a large family and often joked about having a baker's dozen. They brought 11 children into this world, teaching them the value of hard work, kindness and faith. Their love for one another and their children was the foundation of their world and the source of their greatest joy and happiness.
In 1976, Rick and Vikki founded Natural Pantry, a small family business that grew into a community treasure. Their combined vision and dedication blessed many and reflected their shared belief that families can do great things together when centered in Christ.
He joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1969, beginning a lifetime of faithful discipleship that blessed countless lives. In his many church responsibilities whether serving in bishoprics, teaching in the nursery or working with the youth, Rick exemplified faith and Christlike service. He had a deep love for missionary work and often gave his time and energy to strengthen the saints of Alaska and help others find their Savior. His gentle humor, steadfast testimony and willingness to serve made him a spiritual leader and friend in Christ to those who knew him.
Rick was a proud sheet metal worker for 39 1/2 years. He began with C.R. Lewis Company, worked for several firms throughout his career and retired from C.R.L. Service Company. He was known for his integrity, his strong hands and his even stronger heart.
Rick loved basketball and could be found at the City Gym in downtown Anchorage during his teenage and adult life. He beamed with joy watching his children and grandchildren play sports. His devotion to his family meant he learned to love every game his children played. His greatest victories, however, were not on any scoreboard, but in the lives of the children and grandchildren he loved so dearly.
He is survived by his brothers, Kurt, Karl and Roger; eternal companion, Vikki; their 11 children, Richie (ShaNon), Amber, Heather (Ed Ortiz), Chad (Jennifer), Erik (Jessica), Jared (Sara), Becca (Rob Springhill), Sven, Joshua (Solita), Tyler and Rachael (Davin Cummings); and his grandchildren who were the light of his life, Miki, Nitzana, Nasya, Isaac, Ami, Sterling, Colton, Ella, Rosemarie, Erica, Edward Jr., Leonidas, Aaliyah, Angel, Kassidy, Kennedy, Anthony, Riot, Cataleya, Ryan, Xienna, Vi Lee, Aiven, Logan, Kenzie, Haylee, Kyler, Kasyn, Karlee, Kade, Val, Brannigan, Landry and Braxton.
Rick was preceded in death by his grandson, Daniel Solberg; brother, Kenny Solberg; and parents, Mae and Dick Solberg.
Rick's testimony of Jesus Christ and His Gospel was unshakable. He knew families are eternal and looked forward to joyful reunions beyond the veil. Those who knew Rick will remember his kindness, his faith, his love of family and his loving example of what it means to be a disciple of Christ.
"Therefore, O ye that embark in the service of God, see that ye serve him with all your heart, might, mind and strength, that ye may stand blameless before God at the last day. Therefore, if ye have desires to serve God ye are called to the work; For behold the field is white already to harvest; and lo, he that thrusteth in his sickle with his might, the same layeth up in store that he perisheth not, but bringeth salvation to his soul; And faith, hope, charity and love, with an eye single to the glory of God, qualify him for the work. Remember faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, brotherly kindness, godliness, charity, humility, diligence. Ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Amen." D&C 4
All are welcome to join us in remembering Rick with a Funeral Service on Sunday, Oct. 26, 2025, at 6 p.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 3340 W 40th Avenue in Anchorage. A Celebration of Life Luau will be held on Monday, Oct. 27, 2025, at 6 p.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 700 W 46th Avenue in Anchorage.
Please honor Rick by doing an act of service for someone else, a gesture he would have truly loved.
