RICK WILKE, 1946-2021
Land Trust for Louisiana Board President

We lost a dear friend this year who personifies all that the Land Trust strives to be – thoughtful, professional, and dedicated to what matters. Rick Wilke poured his heart and soul into the Land Trust for Louisiana for the last 10 years, working to permanently protect some of Louisiana’s most special places. He served several years on our Board and beginning in 2017 served as Board President, up until his death. Under his guidance we achieved our second accreditation status, revamped our internal records management, and grew into a more mature, respected conservation entity across the state.

His love for community and volunteerism was well described in a 2018 Times-Picayune/Advocate article. In that article he speaks about over 25 years of volunteerism, leadership, and passion for his many causes, not the least of which was land conservation.

In addition to his dedication to the Land Trust, Rick was a dear friend. As a fellow board member stated when learning the news of Rick’s death, “he was unfailingly kind – a true gentleman and gentle man.” Rick will be mightily missed. He left us too soon, but was extremely proud of the work we did together at the Land Trust. He no doubt would encourage us all to carry on his legacy.