Richard Hocking

Apr 16, 1951 -

Nov 21, 2021

Richard C. Hocking, beloved family and community member, passed away on Nov. 21, 2021, at his home in Seward, Alaska. Richard was born on April 16, 1951, in Seattle, Wash., where he grew up with his parents, George and Alice Hocking, and younger sister, Janet.

Richard's curiosity about the natural world was evident from a young age when he declared his intentions to become a forest ranger. He loved camping and exploring at a little forested lot near the Skykomish River as well as the many family trips throughout their home in Washington and various national parks. Richard enjoyed a surplus of hobbies including reading on a variety of subjects, backpacking, skiing, kayaking, photography, movies, traveling and scuba diving. Diving in particular became a prominent interest in his life, as evidenced by his Padi divemaster certification in 1983.

While Richard's job with the Washington Department of Fish and Game paralleled his childhood dreams of being a forest ranger, his passion for the ocean truly defined his life's work. For over four decades, Richard grew his career in the zoo and aquarium industry. Richard began his legacy at the Seattle Aquarium in 1976, and onto the Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium in 1989. Richard left Point Defiance, in 1997, for the great north when he was hired by the Alaska SeaLife Center as the Aquarium Supervisor, tasked with developing the aquarium exhibits for the newly built facility. He quickly was promoted to Aquarium Curator in 1998, a role that he upheld until his passing. Every employee at the Alaska SeaLife Center recollects Richard's kindness, infinite knowledge and willingness to take on any task no matter how big or small. In 2017, Richard was fittingly awarded by his co-workers as the "Unsung Hero" for making a consistently important contribution to the day-to-day operations of the Alaska SeaLife Center. His commitment to ocean conservation, research and animal care was and still is inspiring.

Richard will be remembered for so many wonderful things including his intelligence, wit, attentive listening, wonderful company and his enthusiasm when meeting new people wherever he went. He was a beloved brother, uncle, co-worker and friend, and will be deeply missed.