Richard A. Horn

Jan 9, 1957 -

Jul 1, 2026

Rich grew up in Colorado, spending many of his childhood summers on his grandparents' Wyoming ranch. He developed a love for the outdoors, shooting guns, driving tractors, riding horses and running wild on the farm with his older brother and sister. There, he also watched his uncle train black Labradors, a passion Rich would return to later in life.

In 1989, after earning his bachelor's and master's engineering degrees from Colorado State University, he moved to Anchorage, Alaska, for a job opportunity. He settled there, building a distinguished career as a civil and environmental engineer over three decades. He worked on environmental remediation projects across Alaska, helping restore contaminated sites for the Department of Defense, Harding Lawson Associates, CH2M Hill and Hart Crowser. Along the way, he formed many lasting friendships with his colleagues.

Rich embraced Alaska life wholeheartedly. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and exploring Prince William Sound aboard his houseboat. He was an avid gardener and an excellent cook. Friends remember that whenever they went on an adventure with Rich, he was the guy who had everything you could possibly need packed along, happy to share and lend a hand.

Rich's family remembers "Richie" as a generous, warm and thoughtful brother and uncle who never lost his youthful spirit and goofy sense of humor. His caring and attentive nature made him an excellent caregiver to his elderly parents following surgeries and at the end of their lives.

In recent years, Rich returned to his early passion of retriever training. He adored his female black Labradors, Jet I and Jet II, and was looking forward to an exciting future of participating in the sport in both Alaska and South Carolina.

Rich's passing has come as a shock and brings deep sadness. He is survived by his brother, Ed of Oregon; and sister, Barb of Colorado. He also leaves behind his niece Lizzie and grandnephew August of France, both of whom he cherished. His kind and generous spirit will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Rich's Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, 4-9 p.m., at the Lakefront Anchorage, 4800 Spenard Road, Anchorage, AK 99517.