Obituary of Rick Impson

It is with great sadness that the family of Richard “Rick” Impson, 60, of Idabel, Oklahoma, announces his passing on Wednesday, November 29, 2017 at his home.   

            Rick was born June 1, 1957 in Antlers, Oklahoma to Bob and Marcheta Impson.  He graduated from Antlers High School in 1975 and continued his education at Southeastern Oklahoma State University where he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in 1980 and Master’s degree in education administration.  Rick’s education career took him to Stratford, Chelsea, and to Idabel Public schools where he retired after serving in the education system for 31 years.  Rick taught all age groups and had a positive impact on thousands of students during his tenure.  “Coach Imp” coached multiple sports including football, basketball, softball, and boys/girls golf, where he was a four-time state championship coach for girls’ golf. Rick was also a beloved member of the faculty and made lasting impressions on his colleagues as well as the students. He found great joy in education and mentoring his students .

            One of his greatest joys was his family.  On March 14, 1981 he married Creda Gee in Antlers, Oklahoma, and together they raised their sons, Aaron and Ryan.  He loved nothing more than just spending time with them, watching grandkids participate in activities, and going on family vacations.  He also had a passion for watching his beloved Oklahoma Sooners with his sons and their friends (who became like sons) as well as the Green Bay Packers, in which he owned a small share in the franchise.  What many may not know was that Rick was a wrestling fanatic and even, according to him, started the cage fighting phenomena in Antlers, Oklahoma, in his youth.

            Rick was a Christian. He never saw color of skin and would always look for the best in everybody he met.  His huge heart would always shine through in the smile  he always wore and it lit up every room he was in.  If he wasn’t smiling, he was laughing, and if he wasn’t laughing, it was because he was talking.  He never met a stranger and was never at a loss for words.  All who knew Rick can attest to the fact he truly had a servant’s heart.  He loved to do for others, especially at Christmas time; it was his favorite time of the year.  His legendary Christmas morning tantrums were a sight to behold even though he had already gotten whatever he wanted.  Rick also loved to tell stories about how, as kids, Bobby would never get in trouble but his parents would make an example out of him.  Rick’s stories are cherished and the storyteller will be missed by all who were blessed to know him. 

            Rick was a member of the First Baptist Church in Idabel, where he served as a Deacon.  He also enjoyed serving as a member of the Gideon’s International Evangel Association.

            Rick is proceeded in death by his parents Bob and Marcheta Impson.  Left to cherish his memory are his wife Creda Impson of 36 years and his brother, Bob Impson and wife Cindy of Tahlequah, Ok.  Left to treasure his memory and carry on his legacy of storytelling, kindness, generosity, and his servant’s heart are as his sons, Aaron and wife Tanya, and Ryan, all of Idabel.   Papa will also be greatly missed by his grandsons Preston Egan, Gavin Egan and granddaughters Aryza Impson and Khloe Impson of Idabel as well as several nieces and nephews.