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Hurlbut, Richard W., Ph.D.

Richard W. Hurlbut, Ph.D., age 63, of Waupaca, WI passed away suddenly on Friday, June 6th, 2014 at Ministry St. Joseph’s Hospital in Marshfield, WI.

He was born in Stevens Point, WI, on October 23, 1950, a son of the late Kenneth and Elizabeth (Swan) Hurlbut. As evidence of a life well lived, Rick was surrounded by loved ones including family and long time personal friends during his peaceful passing. Dr. Hurlbut obtained his Doctorate degree from UW-Madison in 1980. Since 1981 he has been a practicing psychologist in Stevens Point. Dr. Hurlbut was Past-President of both the Wisconsin Psychological Association and the Society of Clinical and Consulting Psychologists. He is the current President of the Wisconsin Psychology Foundation and was an elected member of the Wisconsin Representatives for the American Psychological Association. His professional awards, honors and accolades are too numerous to list.

Rick’s love of people and adventure took him all over the world. He and his then-wife Connie Haack-Hurlbut, whom he was married to for 24 years, often flew in a private plane Rick piloted. He loved boating on the Chain, sailing in the Virgin Islands, scuba diving in Australia and especially his 35 years of attending the Indy 500. Rick was passionate about music and never missed an opportunity to attend a live show. His love of the Rolling Stones, straight-forward Blues and anything that kept the body moving was well known to his friends. Rick was a voracious reader, often reading multiple books at a time. He quoted Shakespeare, Vonnegut and Follett with equal ease and affection. He was a master conversationalist and always had a fresh joke to accompany his warm smile. He lived for baseball and celebrated in great style when his Boston Red Sox finally won the Series. Rick deeply understood and consistently practiced the true meaning of friendship. He never turned down an opportunity to help a friend or offer his wise advice when asked.

Survivors include a sister, Shirley (Earl) Newby, Kenosha, WI; brother, Dave (Jan) Hurlbut, Lakewood, WI; sister, Betty (Robert) Kessler, Waupaca, WI. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and numerous friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Kenneth Hurlbut Jr. A Memorial Service will be held at the Holly Funeral Home located at 526 S. Main Street in Waupaca at 3 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 2014. Visitation will be held from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established.

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