Erick L. “Rick” Slader (LtCol USAF, Ret) “Headed West” on September 5, 2020
Eric L. Slader, Sr., 81, of Kingston, passed away Saturday, September 5th. He was the companion of Jacky Leggo for the past 15 years. Born in Providence, he was a son of the late Carl and Estelle (Weber), Slader.
Mr. Slader was a career United States Air Force Officer. He began his career as a B-47 Bomber Navigator. During the Vietnam War, he was stationed in Bien Hoa, South Vietnam. He flew 276 combat missions from November 1967- November 1968. He served with the 7th Air Force, 3rd Tactical Fighter Wing, and the 531st Tactical Fighter Squadron, flying F-100 Fighters and F-111 Fighters. He was a member of the Super Sabre Society and the B47 StratoJet Association and attended numerous reunions of these organizations over the years.
After his military service, he sailed the canals of France and took cooking lessons. He returned to the United States in 1981 and earned a Bachelor’s degree from URI. He then began his second career as a CPA, working for various accounting firms. He enjoyed wood-working, cooking, and was a member of the South County Rod & Gun Club.
He is also survived by a son Erik L. Slader, Jr. of Wakefield; a daughter Kimberly Slader Westcott of Wakefield; five grandchildren, and several great-grandchildren. He was the brother of the late Bruce L. Slader.
Burial with military honors will take place at the Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter at a later date.