Rick Deggelman lived his life with grace, humor and integrity. He had the ability to live and to love fully every day, knowing that life is precious and that nothing is promised.

Rick’s family meant everything to him. He was the second of nine children, born to Patricia and Gene Deggelman, his amazing parents. Rick’s love of family was present in everything he did in his life.

Rick met his wife Kath when they both worked at Caritas Creek in Mendocino, California. Caritas was a Camp and Outdoor Education Program for children of diverse backgrounds. Community was so important to them both.

Rick was an incredible athlete. Baseball, track, basketball, he loved it all. He had a beautiful baritone voice and loved musicals.  He was trying out for the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir the year he died.

Rick knew he wanted to be a father and felt so blessed that he and Kath were able to have two beautiful children, Barbara and Ricky. They were the joy of his life. He used to take Barbara with him when he worked at Clausen House, an independent living facility for developmentally disabled adults in Oakland. Rick was also a gardener and would take little Ricky to work with him every Monday.

Rick was well loved by everyone. He was an amazing husband, father, friend, brother and mentor to so many. Rick’s legacy lives on through the people whose lives he touched, through his children, who exemplify the very best of him.

Love never dies. It is recycled from one heart, from one life to another. The love that Rick shared with his family, his community and the world, continues to change lives every day.