RICK ELLIOTT
Date of Passing:
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
It is with great sadness and deep sympathy that the Kansas Police Dog Association announces the death of Master Trainer Rick Elliott. Rick has been part of the backbone of the Kansas Police Dog Association since the inception and he was a great friend, trainer and judge. Rick passed away on Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at his home in Hutchinson, Kansas.
Rick was born on October 10, 1955 in Marlon, Texas. He was the beloved son of Felton and Mildred Elliott, both who survive him. He was the head K-9 handler for the Hutchinson Correctional Facility, Judge for the Kansas Police Dog Association and held and hosted several dog seminars. For years he was the head dog trainer for a company named Southern Police Canine in North Carolina. He was also the Owner of Elliott's Police K-9. His certifications include patrol, narcotics, tracking, and explosives. Rick was the greatest man that many of us have ever known. He was loved and respected by everyone who has ever met him. He was one of those people who had the distinct ability to stand strong yet still show compassion in his eyes. Everywhere that he went, he tended to draw everyone around him closer as they were absorbed by his jokes and various stories. He is also survived by his sister Janice; brother Phillip; loving wife Cammie; and his two sons Dustin and Landon.
In 1998, Rick was one of a handful of dog handlers who started the Kansas Police Dog Association. Rick's philosphy, as is the philosophy of the Kansas Police Dog Association today, is that nothing less than perfection in the application of the standards is acceptable. Rick believed that every canine team had the potential to be the best and he constantly strived to ensure that anyone he came in contact with left with a little piece of new found knowledge.
Rick's dedication, persistence, and unwaivering devotion to dog work is the basis that helped get the Kansas Police Dog Association started. It is also what drives the group today. Rick was always there when needed and gave great insights to dog handlers from across the United States. He will be greatly missed and will never be replaced. Please keep his family in your hearts and prayers.
