Glen Richard “Rick” Singmaster, 74, of Arcadia, Kansas, passed away on April 13, 2020 at his home.
He was born March 19, 1946 in Fort Scott the son of Donald “Reece” and Luetta “June” Kitchen Singmaster.
Rick was a member of the Fort Scott High School graduating class of 1964. He married Phyllis Cullop in 1965 and from this union, a son was born. They later divorced. In 1985, he married Carol Jenkerson, and they lived a full and happy life together.
Rick was self-employed for most of his life, turning his passion for astronomy into a successful business, Starmaster Telescopes. In addition to astronomy, he had a great love for music, fast cars, motorcycles, and his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Carol, of the home, son Barry Rice and wife, Lynn, 2 daughters, Nicole Conner and husband, Russell, and Sylvia Stapleton and husband, Austin, all of Fort Scott, 7 grandchildren, Stephanie Rice, Madilyn Conner, Megan Conner, Alex Rice, Macey Conner, Donnie Stapleton and Reece Stapleton, sister, Judy Barrow and husband, Ron of Leawood, Kansas, brother, Gary Singmaster of Fort Scott, several nieces, nephews and extended family as well as, many friends in the amateur astronomy community.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Reece and June Singmaster, his beloved brother, Donnie Singmaster, an infant brother, William Singmaster, and a sister-in-law, Margie Singmaster.
Private burial will take place at Clarksburg Cemetery, and a celebration of life will be announced and held at a later date.
The family suggests memorials to the Leukemia Foundation in memory of his brother, Donnie Singmaster.
Donations may be sent to or left in the care of, the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, P.O. Box 309, 15 W. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.
Rick was a one in a billion friend and guy. So glad I had the privilege of knowing him for 20 years, he taught me so much and we shared many uproarious laughs. Until we meet again…Godspeed
A good man and a stellar telescope builder. He and Carol insisted that my daughter and I stay with them when we drove out from Michigan in 1997 to pick up our Starmaster. Over the years I’ve called him a few times and he was ALWAYS available and helpful and nice. My daughter cried when I told her of his passing. He will be sorely missed. Rest in Heavenly peace, Rick.
Rick and I grew up in the First Church of God. Our mothers were friends. I spent a lot of time at the Singmaster Farm on Cat School House road. I tried to help out where ever I could, but being a city slicker, not quite sure how much actual help I was. We went to FSHS together, he being in the class behind me. Rick and I represented FSHS in the Kansas Music Educators’ State Choir. Rick was one if my best friends growing up. I will miss him, but look forward to seeing again someday. Please receive our deepest sympathy.
So sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. Over time we owned two Starmaster telescopes and enjoyed them immensely and used them frequently. Rick was always available for a wide range of consultation regarding all things astronomical, and was a reliable source for advice on accessories. At star parties, on the phone, or at his shop near Pittsburg, KS his stories and comments were amiable and memorable.
Rick Singmaster will be missed.