Born Richard Clarence Parker in the small town of Webster, Massachusetts. Being the son of a Marine forced multiple relocations up and down the eastern seaboard in the early years. Once a teenager he found himself settled down in Oxford, Massachusetts, ironically less than 10 miles from where he was born. After graduating from Oxford High School he spent 2 years at Worcester State College. Finding no satisfaction there he then spent 4 years in the United States Air Force, the bulk of which in Idaho. Moving back to Massachusetts after an Honorable Discharge he worked as an electronic technician during the day, attending classes at Northeastern University at night. While pursuing a Degree in Electrical Engineering he enrolled in a drama class. Night classes, a local audition, and subsequent acceptance to the American Academy of Dramatic Arts propelled Rick from Worcester, Massachusetts to Pasadena, California.