Richard Lloyd Peters, (1958 - 2021) - ForeverMissed.com Online Memorials

Let the memory of Rick be with us forever.

63 years old
Born on February 8, 1958 in Santa Monica, California, United States
Passed away on September 19, 2021 in Los Angeles, California, United States

On September 19, 2021, Richard Peters passed away in his dream home overlooking the city of Los Angeles. He was born in Santa Monica, CA on February 8, 1958, to Richard and MaryAnn Peters. He had 4 siblings: Walter Peters, Marian Peters-Halcomb, Phil Peters and Annette Peters-Chesley.

Rick graduated from Cal State University, Northridge with a BA in Business – Finance. He worked as an accountant at MGM Home Video and Warner Home Video. He met his wife Mari Tell in 1995, while working at Warner Bros. She also worked at Warner Bros., Television Division. Rick was a “Jack of all trades” working various occupations such as: pedicab driver (Westwood), locksmith (Santa Monica Lock and Safe), and sailed a commercial yacht named Claudia.

On August 17, 1996, Rick and Mari Tell were married in Santa Monica, CA. They raised two amazing young people. Blake recently graduated from Principia College with high honors (Computer Science Major). Amber is a Junior at the University of California Irvine (Applied Physics Major with a concentration in Engineering). Rick spent a lot of time volunteering at his kids’ middle school, Berkeley Hall School. In 2010, he received the Dad’s Club Steve Bennett Achievement honoree. This award is given each year to a dad who stands out as a volunteer and one who’s donated his time and energies to the Dad’s Club activities. Rick and his father both attended Berkeley Hall School as a student when they were younger.

He became CIO (Chief Information Officer) at the Community Development Commission of Los Angeles; then served as a member on the Board of Trustee for Berkeley Hall School and then COO (Chief Operating Officer) for the same school, until retiring from that post in 2020. He also served as a Board Member for UCLA Anderson Information System Associates.

He was an involved and supportive member for Tenth Church of Christ Scientist, where he served on numerous committees. Both his kids attended their Sunday School. He volunteered at numerous organizations such as Adventure Unlimited Ranches in Colorado as a bunk house dad when his kids attended their Kids Camp. He also spent many summers at their ranch with his family during Family Camp (activities: climbing 14,000-foot peak, rock climbing, high ropes course, horseback riding, river rafting, mountain biking, archery and many more). Rick and his family enjoyed anything related to Disney which included: decades of having annual Disney passes as well as visiting Disney Aulani Hotel in Hawaii and Disney World in Florida.

Rick is survived by his wife of 25 years, Mari Tell Peters; son, Blake Peters; daughter, Amber Peters; and pet Labrador, Mia. The family would like to thank the staffs at: UCLA Medical Center; Accredited Home Care; and Assisted Home Health and Hospice. Rick was diagnosed with Glioblastoma (brain cancer) in January 2020. He fought hard until the end. He passed away in his dream home, exactly how he envisioned it to be: at home, with the kids (and their dog Mia), not in pain and most of all, happy.

Tribute from his son Blake Peters:

“Knowledge is power. With power, you can make choices”. My sister and I were so inspired by the amount of wisdom and interesting facts my father possessed. When we were little, we asked him all our questions like he was a walking Google without any ads and the best search algorithm. He laid down the foundation for my life to prosper and choose what academic path inspired me the most. He gave me goals to achieve. When I stumbled, or lost sight of something that seemed unobtainable, he was there for me. He helped me push past those obstacles, making the next “impossible wall” easier to overcome. Even though my family and I have lost a significant cornerstone in our lives, my dad left literal cornerstones behind. He created a house filled with his personal ideas and thoughts making each room perfect for each family member. Even if his physical body is not with us, the memories of how he has changed our lives will remain everlasting. All I can think about is how he lived a fulfilled life, and I am happy that he considers “his greatest creations,” to be his kids. My hope is also to have a chance at living a joyous life like his. I am so grateful to have had a father like him and am blessed to have experienced his infinite love.

Tribute from his daughter Amber Peters:

Winston Churchill once said: “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” My father truly made a wondrous life, always giving more than he received. In everything he did he was always reaching for others, connecting with people, and inspiring solidarity. In the chaos and discord of life, being with him was like being in harmony. He taught me to listen to each and every voice and emphasized with his actions the importance of caring for others. Everything we did together had a purpose. It was either a lesson or a way to push our limits and break through or an act of service to care for our community. He was always pushing me to grow and improve, but also giving infinite love and support every step of the way. In my family I took after my father both in looks and personality; I was “daddy’s girl” and when my family looked at me, they saw him. Consequently, I was daunted by the idea of filling the role he left behind because I thought it impossible to become him. How do you become someone that strong? That honest? That selfless? I realize now that I can only try. And discover who I am as I do. That is the gift my father left for me, and without him I would never have become who I am because he is a part of that. I believe that all the lives he touched share a part of him in who we are, and even beyond the horizon that is death, he continues to give. He may be beyond the limit of our sight now, but he is never beyond the limit of our hearts.

Per Rick’s request, he doesn’t want a funeral. Instead if you would like to, you can share tributes, memories, thoughts or just light a candle under tribute and sign your name to this website. You will need to sign up but can easily unsubscribe if you no longer want to receive notifications. We will then turn this site into a book to give to Rick's kids. It will then be passed on to Rick's future grandkids so they can read about their grandfather. Thank you.

Tributes

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September 20, 2023

Friend, you are dearly missed. Your friendship grows with every passing year. It is your passing that reminds us of the true importance in life. RIP brother.

May God's hand be upon Mari Tel, Blake, and Amber. Godspeed

September 19, 2023

Two years passes so quickly. I remember so many conversations and moments with Rick. I don't think I will ever get used to not speaking with him.

September 19, 2023

It's hard to believe it's been 2 years. I miss Rick so much, I hope
Mari Tell and the kids are doing as best they can. I know life goes
on but the memories will always be in our hearts forever.

February 20, 2023

I know that a loved one is missed more than ever on their birthday, and I'm sure your wonderful father and husband is no exception. With my husband and my children's father, we've found it a day to honor him in special ways, light a candle, and share wonderful stories about him. I send you all my love and I can't think of a greater tribute to Rick than the three of you.

February 15, 2023

On his birthday, like Annette’s & Dad, I just couldn’t. I have been going through photos (somehow I’ve become the archive) & found more from our childhood. I will continue to post as I dig through all of them. It will take time, our father was an amateur photographer.

February 8, 2023

I will forever miss you Rick.

February 8, 2023

My number one Hero would have been 65 today.
That's a retirement party I would given anything to attend.

October 17, 2022

I’ve been in the locksmith business for 50 years. Over that time I have hired more employees than I can count. As with all small businesses they would come and they would go. Some to better opportunities, some would move away and of course some were fired. Few of them do I remember well enough to put a face to a name. But Rick Peters was different.

When I hired Rick he became the 9th man in our crew. The day he started he showed himself to be a man of character. He quickly became the example for his teammates to emulate. His work ethic, his quality of work and his commitment to the “Company” set him apart from any employee I have had before or since. He was a natural born leader with an ability to earn people’s respect.

When Rick informed me that he was quitting I was saddened to lose him. But happy for him because I knew he was going to better things. I think his legacy proves that to be true.

Over the years we kept in touch. He would stop by the store and keep me up to date on his wife and brag about his kids. We just became old friends with a brief common history. I always told him how proud I was of what he had done with his life. Exemplified by having a much loved wife & kids, a successful career and the financial rewards he justly deserved.

It hurt my heart when I heard he had passed away so young. He will always hold a special place in my there.

September 20, 2022

Mari Tell, hard to believe a year has come and gone. I enjoy viewing the pics over and over again shared by others. Seeing pics of Rick in his twenties is especially heart warming. Brings memories of us together right into focus. Rick was a gentle and kind man, never one to back down from a challenge or adversity. Praying you, Blake, and Amber are in good spirits and celebrating the many wonderful memories and life Rick helped to create with his beautiful family.

September 19, 2022

Rick and I met in an introductory Japanese language class at Santa Monica College during the summer of 1985. I was preparing to follow my longtime boyfriend to Tokyo (where he’d recently accepted a job as an English copywriter.) As far as I recall, Rick was taking the class simply because he thought it might be interesting and fun.

Rick and I sat next to each, learning our basics - “Konichiwa,” “Ogenki desu ka,” “Arigato gozaimasu,” etc. We started meeting up after class to grab a sandwich, study for quizzes, see an occasional film… He was warm, outgoing, and laughed easily.

I can’t remember how much we stayed in touch while I was in Japan. A few years later, after I’d moved back to Los Angeles on my own, we occasionally spoke by phone but for the most part continued living our separate lives. Thus, I was honored indeed when Rick & Mari Tell invited me to their wedding. I attended, accompanied my then new boyfriend (now husband,) in the lovely setting of the Miramar Santa Monica hotel.

During the ensuing years, we stayed in contact primarily through our annual holiday greetings: Jason and my emailed greeting with digital photo gallery of us and our daughter Mira; Rick & Mari Tell’s mailed postcards featuring images of Blake and Amber. So many joyful accomplishments and adventures!

Thus it was with terrible sadness I learned only afterwards of Rick’s illness and passing. (Mari Tell let me know Rick kept a teddy bear I gave him years ago close during his final months.)

All of you, his family and friends, who were fortunate to have longer and deeper relationships with him, will certainly understand how Rick could have made such a strong impact on someone after just a handful of months. I am filled with tears for the loss of him and his spirit continues to uplift me now nearly three decades after we first connected.

During Rick & Mari Tell’s wedding ceremony, the minister talked about the grass not being greener on the other side of the hill but actually being greener where we water it. Rick is someone who made things greener everywhere he went, for all of us. (Thank you, Rick!!)

On this one year anniversary of Rick’s passing, sending my deepest condolences and sincere best wishes to Mari Tell, Blake, Amber, and all who loved him!

Regan Kibbee
Venice, CA

p.s. Just posted a couple pics of 27-year-old Rick at my moving to Japan farewell party.

September 19, 2022

Mari Tell, thinking of Rick and you and your children today. I hope you can do something positive I’m his memory today. Hugs my friend

August 20, 2022

I became fast friends with Rick and his family at the AU Ranches in Colorado in 2012, where we hiked 14,000-foot mountains, went river rafting, rock climbing, horseback riding, and traversed high ropes courses. Rick had a unique gift for gently encouraging others to find their inner confidence and strength. I considered Rick and his family to be my family away from home while at camp, and I was immediately welcomed into their circle of friendship. Rick adored MariTell, Blake, and Amber, and supported them every step of the way. Their lives were filled with love and joy. He loved his family so much and wanted the best life has to offer for them. Rick is greatly missed; his legacy of love lives on.

February 8, 2022

Undoubtedly your spirit continues to live within those you have touched and shared life with. On this date marking your birth 64 years ago, I continue with a special place in my heart for you and relish the fond memories we were blessed to share in a life well lived. Rest in peace my good friend,

January 20, 2022

I met Rick through Berkeley Hall where I served as Head of School and Rick as COO. Rick meant a great deal to me and was a Godsend during a time of considerable change at Berkeley Hall. The school has always been a wonderful place, and over the past decade it felt necessary to build on its success and take it to an even higher level of professionalism. With the help of others, Rick and I worked closely together to make that happen. I wouldn’t have wanted to attempt this work without him and was grateful for the time we had and for his willingness to serve. He performed his job with intelligence, integrity, patience, and compassion.
One of the things that I found most endearing about Rick was his great love for his family. Both Amber and Blake graduated from Berkeley Hall when I was there and I'd had the pleasure to get to know Mari Tell a little, so I found it surprising at first that Rick persisted in talking about them as "my daughter," "my son", "my wife" (e.g. "My son played well in the game today.") I'd tease him a bit and say, "You mean Blake or do you have another son?" But then I realized that he just enjoyed saying those words -- "my son," "my wife," "my daughter." Mari Tell, Blake, and Amber meant everything to him and one of the reasons he was so committed to Berkeley Hall was because of the Peters family's long association with the school.
Needless to say, I miss Rick. He was the one I could unload to about work situations and the one that would invariably follow me out to my car at the end of the work day to ask one more question or share one more work-related thought. The Berkeley Hall community got used to having a very hands-on COO in Rick, and those of us who called him friend got used to having a loyal, helpful colleague and brother to turn to. We were all blessed to have him in our midst.

January 11, 2022

I first met Rick at Turtle Rocks, a beloved rock climbing area near the Adventure Unlimited Ranches. We were making a promotional video for A/U, and Rick had just finished rappelling a 70 foot rock face overlooking the upper Arkansas River valley and the Collegiate Peaks beyond.

We became fast friends when I started working with him at Berkeley Hall in the fall of 2018 and found out that he had a love for good food and sharing his favorite eateries. Coming from a very small town in Colorado, Los Angeles to me was a wonderland of delicious and exotic restaurants, and Rick was happy to be the expert guide. He introduced me to the area through my taste buds: Chinchikurin on Sawtelle for okonomiyaki, Din Tai Fung for soup dumplings, Eataly for Italian dinner and grocery staples, R + D Kitchen on Montana for stylish American fare, Gjusta in Venice for their amazing croque madame, Roc for the best fried rice and garlic string beans, Mamita in Glendale for Peruvian potatoes and seafood – the list goes on.

Rick brought a thoughtful perspective to every conversation, always with the best interests of Berkeley Hall in mind. He put his all into his work, often staying until everyone else had gone home and always waiting to make sure the gate closed behind him as he left. He always took the stairs to his office with youthful enthusiasm, two at a time. He cared deeply for his colleagues, encouraging them to consider family before work. He prided himself on taking inspired walks around campus where he would stop by various offices to the delight of coworkers who would exclaim: “I was just about to call you,” or “You are just the person I wanted to see.” He would just smile and say, “It felt like the right time to stop by.”

Rick spent a lot of his time thoughtfully onboarding me and giving me historical background of the school. This gave me a solid foundation for my job, setting me up for success. He loved Berkeley Hall, serving on the Board and then serving as COO where he worked with Board members and the Head of School to create a sustainable financial path for the school into the future.

Being new to LA freeway traffic, Rick impressed me with his confident yet careful driving, comparing a commute on the 405 to navigating the Arkansas River rapids by kayak or raft. Looking ahead, you spot the slower cars (the rocks) and anticipate where you (the raft) need to be for the fastest flow (river current). He certainly did not need GPS since all of the streets had been committed to memory long before.

With Rick, family always was first. His voice was full of pride when he talked about Amber and Blake, and so much love for MariTell. He loved telling the story of how they met and fell in love.

I found it interesting that Rick had absolutely no fear in dying. He once told me about his sister that he lost earlier in life. His love for her was apparent, and there was no sorrow in his voice as he told me about her life and her passing. He had a sure confidence that life is forever and that she was still making progress wherever she was. I know that is also how he viewed his own life.

I am grateful that our paths crossed in our lives. I’m most certainly a better person having been Rick’s friend.

Much love and big hugs to you, MariTell, Amber, and Blake.

December 18, 2021

Richard was a well liked family man who fought the good fight. He will truly be missed.

December 14, 2021

I had been cutting Rick’s hair for over fifteen years. I felt like he was a good friend of mine. He always told me about his adventures with his family. He was such a caring and upbeat person. Once he said “I can tell you enjoy your work and you do it with passion.” That was a great compliment and I am still treasure the memories today. I still remember the smile on his face after I cut his hair on the Last few house calls at his home.
I feel so honored to know him. It’s farewell for now and someday we will meet again!

November 16, 2021

I only had the pleasure of meeting Rick once years ago but he left a very strong memorable impression on me. After spending some time talking with him that day what I recalled thinking the most was what a genuinely nice personable guy he was and that I was so happy that Maritell had such a great husband and father of her children. This had given me much joy as Maritell is like a sister to me. Maritell, I’m so sorry for the loss you and the kids are going through. Rick will always be with you, please take comfort in knowing that he is in a better place. God Bless.

November 16, 2021

Nine years ago, I was blessed to have Mr. Peters and the rest of his family enter my life; a family filled to the brim with love and laughter (tons and tons of laughter). I was only 14 when I met him, but I could tell Mr. Peters was a man of substance. Even today, I continue to see him in Mrs. Peter’s kindness, Amber’s intellect, and Blake’s never-ending wit. The words of wisdom that Mr. Peters was always kind enough to share helped mold me into the man I am now. I could never repay him for his guidance and the blessing that was and always will be his presence in my life.

November 14, 2021

Cindy, myself, Sammy and Katie extend our condolences to Mari Tell and family for your great loss. I will miss the handful of conversations I had with Rick after we moved in next door in early fall 2016. I still remember the several tours he gave me of your home as it was being built shortly after we ourselves had settled into our own home. He was most welcoming as a neighbor, and I appreciated his "inside scoop" on our part of the block and the neighborhood both of us actually grew up in whenever we'd see each other out in the front of our homes. We shared notes on our landscaping efforts, solar systems and electric cars.

November 11, 2021

Dear Mari Tell, Blake, and Amber:

It has been a privilege reading the tributes to Rick and learning more about him as well as about his special connection with so many people. The photos are terrific!

It has been a real opportunity to meet Rick, as well as you all through church.
Rick used some of his many talents to serve so unselfishly for church.

I believe that I mostly knew his more quiet side. This past year I've learned more about some of the reasons why his eyes twinkled: so loving his family and enjoying fun times!

Sending hugs and love,

November 7, 2021

Please accept our deepest condolences and know that God loves you and can restore your spirit and give you peace. May God bless and comfort you and your family during this time of grief.

October 31, 2021

When you wake up in the morning, you never know that this might be the day that changes the course of your life.

Mari Tell and I were working together at Warner Bros that day she met Rick for the first time. I will never forget her sudden burst of excitement as she stopped over at my desk, leaned in and said, "I've met somebody." She had wondered down to one of the larger copy rooms in search of an available machine; that is where she bumped into Rick for the first time.

If memory serves me correctly, there were at least two Ricks on the floor, so a little sleuthing took place to correctly identify the man that would become her future husband.

We had many fun times working side-by-side and I know that Mari Tell and Rick built an incredible life together after that first meeting.

Ted

October 30, 2021

On Rick and Mari Tell's wedding day, I read from Dr. Seuss' 'Oh the Places You'll Go' as they started their new lives together. I'm thankful for all of the places Rick went and the times I got to share with him on his journeys.

October 28, 2021

When Rick was elected to the Berkeley Hall Board of Trustees, he couldn’t have more pleased or honored. That was really the beginning of my friendship and working relationship with him. Not long after, it became apparent to the Board and to our new Head of School, Lisle, that the Business Office was in dire need of attention. In early 2014, Rick became the interim CFO which of course morphed into him becoming the CFo. Rick was technically “On Leave” from the Board and it was always everyone’s goal to have him back as a regular Board member. He loved his job and he was absolutely invaluable to all of us as he helped turn things around. Our debt of gratitude to him is endless. I loved walking into his office, grabbing one of those little mints he always had, and just talking honestly about whatever was on our minds. He was a dear friend and a wonderful colleague.

October 27, 2021

Rick was a kind soul. i met him after the birth of Blake. Rick loved being a dad and loved his wife so much. He was a great story teller. I had suck a wonderful visit with him and maritell. i know he will be greatly missed. but i want all to remember he is with Our Creator and is no longer suffering. i imaging him having coffee with my husband talking about life on earth.

October 26, 2021

Dear Mari Tell, Blake and Amber,
We met Rick when we moved to the neighborhood and he was taking Blake and Amber out on a bike ride. Our relationship grew over the decade as our families dreamt of building our “forever” home. Between comparing notes on decks, chandeliers, and the impressive shoe shelf, we had the privilege of learning more about your family. The last year is a true testament to your love for each other. Rick’s legacy undoubtedly lives on in how you still continue to laugh, love and care for each other. Rick not only built his physical dream home, but also his dream family in you. No doubt there are memories of Rick scattered all over the house, from the amazing Disney rooms to the little corners of the garage, but his kindness, integrity and sense of adventure and fun is what the world sees in the three of you. We all miss Rick and also thank him for giving the world the gift of you three (four, if you include Mia).

October 25, 2021

Dear Mari Tell, Blake, and Amber,
I was very sorry to hear about the passing of Rick. Mari Tell, you were an amazing advocate, and you & your family have my deepest condolences. Rick was clearly loved by family and friends, as evidenced by this beautiful tribute. All the best to you & your family, and may your wonderful memories help you during this difficult time. May you and your family continue his stellar legacy.

October 24, 2021

My sincerest condolences to Mari Tell and her children Blake and Amber. While I only met Rick once, I fondly followed the Peters’ family adventures on Facebook and know how full their lives were with love and joy. Keeping you all in my thoughts during this difficult time.

October 24, 2021

Rick, my dear big brother, has been in my life since before I was born.

He was here when I got here.

He is like a star in the sky, always there whenever I will look for him.

I don’t know anything about who I am without him.

I am not really interested in that, anyway.

He is my Hero.

He overcame such astonishing adversity as a young boy, it still humbles me to this day to see the man he created himself to be.

I could go on about all the times he made a difference in my life but, that would be mostly about me.

What’s so is that he was always deeply committed to making a beneficial impact in the lives of everyone he dealt with, and most especially those for whom he chose to be responsible.

He spared no expense about that; while being extraordinarily frugal in all other matters.

He consistently found ways to make contributions everywhere he went; it was his natural expression.

He was more committed to having FUN than any ten other people I know!!!

Those of us who had the privilege of being close to him will naturally miss his physical presence, his wry humor, his loving smile and his caring eyes.

None of us will ever be without him, though.

He made sure of that by leaving indelible experiences of his love in our hearts.

October 23, 2021

What beautiful tributes from Blake and Amber. How wonderful to have a person in your life that was so loving and caring. What a wonderful father!! Although I had not spent a lot of time with Rick over the past few years that I have known the Peters family, I do have fond memories of some dinners together and especially our fun trip to Dreamscape, the virtual reality adventure. The most memorable visit was the last one as we, my sister and I, were the last to be able to visit with Rick.

October 23, 2021

I'm grateful I got to know Rick while working at Adventure Unlimited when Rick and Mari Tell would bring Blake and Amber for vacations. While Rick and his family were the actual guests, Rick's spirit of generosity and joy left me feeling like the guest. Rick's embodiment of hard work and love of adventure are wonderful gifts he instilled in his children. Mari Tell, Blake, and Amber: I hope you each find peace in the infinite gratitude for your shared lives with Rick. Love to you all.

October 21, 2021

I first met Mr. Peters early after his diagnosis. He was clear eyed about his prognosis and no-nonsense in his approach to his care. He was clear about his goals, and making sure to plan for his family's well being. At follow up visits, his mood was always upbeat, and he impressed me with his positive attitude despite his deterioration in health. He and Maritell were true partners in health, and respected each other's wishes. I was so heartened to hear that he was able to make the trip to attend his son's graduation- I know it meant a lot to everyone in the family. It was my honor to care for him these past two years. May God comfort his family, and may his memory be a blessing for all who knew him.

October 20, 2021

Mari Tell, Amber and Blake,

Our whole family was so sorry to hear of Rick's passing. We have so many happy memories of spending time with all four of you in Colorado and of my working with Rick at Berkeley Hall. I think the thing that stands out the most when thinking of Rick was his kindness and patience with others. No matter how busy he was, he always took the time to help those around with a sense of joy and service. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

October 18, 2021

I had the pleasure of being in close communication with Rick during his children's college decision making processes. More specifically, working with Blake during the recruitment process to Principia College, I had the opportunity to work with Rick directly sharing a meal with the family, plenty of email exchanges, and hosting Blake and Rick while they visited Principia College. If one thing became clear to me, Rick cared so deeply about both of his children and was invested in ensuring the best for them. I was so appreciative of the care and encouragement he brought to both during their respective experiences. Rick's example of care and fatherhood inspires me to this day. Through the conversations Rick and I had, I felt supported in my role and encouraged by the way that he deeply knew his kids and the ways they would best be supported and set up for a successful future. In my experience working with parents, this sort of parental relationship and depth of care is rare. A strong spiritual thinker, Rick lived Love's work through the way he treated others and he was invested in his children's experience. May this example of Love continue to inspire us all.

October 18, 2021

Mari Tell, Blake and Amber,

I am honored to have had a chance to visit Rick one last time this summer at your lovely home. I am glad I made him laugh on numerous occasions. Rick was a good man. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.

Phoebe xoxoxo

October 18, 2021

Dear Mari Tell,

I May not have met Rick, but the beautiful tributes about him and most of all the beautiful eulogies from your son and daughter Reflect the good person that he was.
My condolences to you and your family.

Maite Sanchez Gregorio
*your grade school classmate

October 17, 2021

Mari Tell, Blake, and Amber,
Rick was a tireless father and friend. He was committed to excellence in everything he did. He poured his life into his work and took great pride in the rewards of a job well done. Above all, Rick was always thinking ahead and never wasted a moment of time. Indeed, his life was full in the greatest sense --love of family, love of school, and love of church and God. We will miss him dearly but will always remember how he enriched our lives with his joyful presence.
With our love and deepest condolences,
The Lindgren Family (Chris, Alison, Elijah, and Emma)

October 17, 2021

My deepest condolences...I have not seen Rick since being at his amazing wedding. ... the love Rick had for Mari Tell was so strong and apparent Mari Tell - I have followed your postings and can see the love and pride you have for your family. I can see how totally devoted to the family Rick was, and I can see the values you and Rick have passed to Blake and Amber. May his memories be a blessing. With much respect, Kate

October 17, 2021

Dearest Mari Tell, Blake and Amber,
I may not have met Richard personally but through the cards/ postcards/ pictures that have been shared with me, I know in my heart what a great husband and father he was. Please accept my heartfelt condolences for his passing. I am keeping him all of you in my prayers. May God's graces be with you always.

Sincerely,
Rissa

October 17, 2021

Dearest Mari Tell, Blake and Amber ~ What beautiful tributes have been written here about Rick, all acknowledging the most fulfilling, giving life imaginable ... and as you both both wrote, Blake and Amber, a life that will keep on giving. My father passed on when I was 19, but his impact, influence and presence in my life is still with me today as much or even more than then, and I know it will be for you too. I read your tributes to your father with tears of sadness, but also with tears of joy with what amazing adults you both have become. I know what it must have meant to your father, how proud he was of you, how comforting you were to him, and now what it will mean to your mother to have you both in the years to come. I see Mr. Neale in my grown children in so many ways, and it gives me great joy. Thank you, Mari Tell, Blake and Amber for sharing this beautiful memorial with all of us. So much love to you.

October 17, 2021

It’s never easy to lose a loved one. There are no words. My sincere condolences to you Mari, your children and the whole family. God bless you.

October 16, 2021

I became the Archivist for BHS in 2005, and that is my continuing position there. I worked with a number of brilliant people but one person stands out and that is Rick, your dad. I hardly knew him, except as a student, and the son of MaryAnn and Rick, Sr.
Due to employees needing more space, my office was moved into a tiny area in the main office area. I needed a larger file cabinet, and asked around...for assistance. One day, (I had been praying for an harmonious space) when your dad walked in, and said, "Hi, Mrs. Craft, I am now the one who heads up the Finance for the school. If you need items, etc, please let me know." Before the day ended I had a file cabinet, and it was the perfect size. I soon realized that "Mr. Peters" was efficient in his position, and treated everyone with respect. After months of working together, I asked if he would please call me "Edna." He said he could never do that, as he had always held me as "special," and with respect. Imagine, it took a year before he addressed me as 'Edna.' When he heard that my chair was not very comfortable, he surprised me with a new, comfortable chair. As our friendship grew, I began receiving a family Christmas card with several photos. I loved being included in his family friendship, and kept the photo in a special place on my desk. That pleased him a lot.
Though I worked with your mom when she was a bus driver, it was your dad whom I became close with. One day, at our famed Country Fair, he said the display I had set up for Alumni was friendly and also professional. On a certain afternoon, your dad visited me in my office, and asked if I could use his help to cart down all the alumni materials and help set up my booth? I was so surprised and said I would welcome his help. Imagine my surprise when he walked into my office at around 8:30am and loaded his car with loads of items, and helped me set it all up. Now, I want to share a thought: Your b'day isn't about celebrating that you are older, but to welcome a new beginning. Give up any angst of yesterday and welcome the opportunity to embrace NOW. You are loved, too. xxoo Edna Craft

October 15, 2021

The first time I met Rick he was running the big spotlight for the Berkeley Hall Variety Show, and I was the host. He kept me in the light that night and brought so much light to others, as well. He was a wonderful father, a good friend (who always wore a smile), and just a kind and honorable man who served as an example of how to be and live. He will be missed, but he leaves us two extraordinary children (Amber and Blake) as his lasting legacy.

October 15, 2021

I am just shocked and saddened to hear this. I met both Rick and Mari Tell at Warner Bros when we all worked together and they started dating. I was lucky enough to attend their wedding. I miss you both and am so terribly sad to hear this. What a great life he had and legacy in his wonderful children. My sincere condolences to the entire family.

October 12, 2021

Dear MariTell, Blake and Amber, Please accept my most sincere condolences. Rick was one of the coolest people I have had the pleasure to work with in my entire 50+ year career. My only regret is that we didn't meet sooner as I know we could have been better friends. As we know, Rick was the consummate professional and held people, including himself, to high standards. Rick was also so very kind, considerate and cared for the people around him in a deeply personal way. I truly appreciated his wit and sneaky humor. I miss Rick and will always remember the extraordinary person he was. Farewell Rick. God bless you and your family

October 11, 2021

Mari Tell, Blake and Amber. My deepest condolences to your family during this very difficult time. Rick has definitely left us all too soon.

I was fortunate to have worked with Rick during my time at the CDC. He was instrumental in my transition to supporting ERP systems at a time when my current project role was ending and I feared having to find new employment. Rick accepted me, someone with no ERP experience, to become one of his project team members. Eventually, he even provided me with a management opportunity. For that kindness, trust and faith in me I will forever be grateful to him.

Of all the places I’ve worked, my time at the CDC has been the most memorable. That is largely due to Rick. Aside from all the seriousness that is the crux of the working environment, there was a fun side that Rick fostered amongst his team. He was supportive and always had a positive attitude. He made the work environment really enjoyable and is something for me that has never been duplicated.

And like Milten mentioned in his tribute, Rick’s Formula One-like driving skills were amazing and something to behold. He was a great man in many different ways to all the lives he touched.

October 11, 2021

Dear MariTell, Blake and Amber, We send our condolences to you all. We have happy memories of having your family as neighbors at A/U family camp. Then at BHS, we saw Rick often. He loved his family more than anything. Over the years he always spoke with such love and pride about you all. His enthusiasm for all things Berkeley Hall was also a great thing to behold. He was always very involved and cared so deeply. You are a wonderful family. May you feel comfort and healing. Our best, Jodie and Darrin and family

October 11, 2021

We are all so very sad to hear of Rick's passing. He was such a kind, warm family man with a wonderful smile. We remember him so well as he spent a lot of his free time volunteering and was very involved in the Dad's Club at Berkeley Hall. If there was an event, he would be there working behind the scenes, giving his time and putting all of his heart into it. One particular incident stays with me and sums up Rick's amazing attitude and generous nature. I remember Amber staying for a sleepover at our house and she decided at 1am (as they sometimes did at that young age!) that she wanted to go home. She called home and Rick immediately drove over from Santa Monica and greeted her with a bear hug and big grin. He was up early on the following Saturday morning and drove her all the way back to our house so she could have a full day with Olivia -he would do anything for his children and always with a big smile and even bigger heart. We are so sorry for your loss and truly believe that his love will continue to radiate through all of you and everyone who knew him.

October 11, 2021

I am so sorry to hear of Rick's passing and my heart goes out to Mari Tell, Blake and Amber. I knew Rick from church and also from Berkeley Hall School, first when we were both parents there, and then later when we worked there together for a few years. Rick was always friendly, supportive, helpful and caring. He went out of his way to do for others and to contribute in whatever ways he could, and there were many. He was supportive to me as a coworker on so many occasions, I can't remember them all. It is very sad that he didn't live a longer life, but he certainly did live a good and full one and has left a beautiful legacy in his home and family.

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September 20, 2023

September 19, 2023

Two years passes so quickly. I remember so many conversations and moments with Rick. I don't think I will ever get used to not speaking with him.

September 19, 2023

It's hard to believe it's been 2 years. I miss Rick so much, I hope
Mari Tell and the kids are doing as best they can. I know life goes
on but the memories will always be in our hearts forever.

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Gallery

One of the many professional sittings we did when young. It was a thing back then.

There was a phase of Hawaiian print shirts in his younger days too. BHS pic.

I remember this shirt. This is a school pic from BHS.

Guess like most little boys of the time Rick wanted to be a cowboy.

Our mother would put these Country Club blazers on the boys, mostly just for pictures.

Young Rick at our paternal Grandmother’s for Christmas! I remember playing with that truck many yrs later.

Regan's Farewell to Japan Party 1985 (that's me in long pink dress)

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It's a Love Story ....

December 22, 2021

Mari Tell, Rick and I met several years ago when Mari Tell and I were bunk mates while volunteering at the AU camps while our girls were bunk mates attending camp. From there we had many fun adventures together over the years at the camps and while visiting CA.

I remember hearing the story of how they met and fell in love from Mari Tell's side and then there was hearing the story from a different angle - from Rick's side (without Mari Tell present). And indeed it was something from the movies (a romcom of course). I still remember asking Rick why he chose Mari Tell for his life long partner (as he was a bachelor for so long) and his answer was 2-fold; he shared a story about playing a board game on one of their dates and realized how incredibly sharp she was; and then he went on to say how Mari Tell always made him laugh and he knew that when he grew older that that laughter would sustain him through the years.

And I think about that laughter and the joy that Mari Tell brings to everyone's life and know that it held true for the almost 2 years of challenges that faced them each day. And it was this laughter and love from Mari Tell, Blake, and Amber that prolonged the precious time on earth that they had together.

It is a love story of a family - seeing Rick with Mari Tell, Blake and Amber was uplifting. And of course there was Mia who became part of the family too. The tender loving care that Mari Tell, Amber, and Blake expressed over the last 2 years is inspiring. And covid was a blessing for them as it gave them more time together as college was remote for a year. Such love and determination from Rick to see Blake graduate in person and then the love from Blake to come back to spend time with his dad and continues today with his support for his mom.

Rick was always upbeat and fun and full of joy - not to mention an unlimited supply of energy! Such a positive attitude toward life that I hope is his legacy to his children. I am so grateful to have been able to have gotten to know Rick over the years and to visit with Rick in late August and again in early September, before we came back to Colorado.

October 12, 2021

I've only met Rick a few times, being friends with Maritell. It was an honor for me and our small group of high school to be asked to be a part of your wedding. I know Rick was a loving dad and husband, but he was very lucky to have loving and caring wife that gave him two of the greatest kids ever. Rest in the comfort that Rick is being rewarded by being in the presence of our Lord.

October 10, 2021

Many people say they are happy to be marrying their soulmate. Mari Tell and Rick would say they were happy to be marrying their playmate. It was so true, they were like kids together. I remember one night we were at a restaurant and they were sitting next to each other on a wobbly banquette bench seat. Instead of moving or complaining, Mari Tell started subtly bouncing up and down on it. Rick was laughing and joined in. He looked at me and said “This is why I love her so much”

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