Richard Ashcraft Wilson, 53

Though beauty is a gift our senses love, it rarely describes a man. Rich’s beauty radiated from within, touching all who knew him.

Richard Ashcraft Wilson, 53, died in his home on Feb. 9 after a long battle with cancer.

Rich was a multifaceted artist, always drawing, painting, batiking, or creating puppets and masks. He worked with the Macalester College theater department, the In the Heart of the Beast Puppet Theatre, many dance companies, and in the film business. He was a master lighting designer.

Rich also taught art and storytelling through shadow puppetry to people of all ages. He and his family participated in many May Day Parades in Minneapolis and in art festivals throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Rich traveled the world, creating art and making friends. He loved life, his family, and his community dearly. He is a bright spirit in our lives and will continue to shine.

Rich graduated from St. Olaf College in 1981. For 17 years he lived with his family in the country near River Falls, Wis.

He leaves his wife, Jocelyn Gorham; his son, Rowan Wilson; his parents, Joella Wilson and Richard Wilson; his brothers, Bill and Steve; his sisters, Sarah and Beth; and many well-loved nieces, nephews, and in-laws.

A memorial will be held at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 26 in the Macalester College Chapel, 1600 Grand Ave., St. Paul. Reception to follow.

Tags: obituaries