Frederick “Rick” Edmund Weida passed away on January 31, 2021 at home in Lake Balboa, CA. Rick was born on July 1, 1963 in Oakland, California to George A. F. Weida and Marilee Weida. The family settled in the San Fernando Valley, a Los Angeles suburb, where he attended Lanai Road Elementary, Portola Junior High, and Birmingham High School. Sports were a big part of his life and he excelled in baseball and basketball. He was a starting forward for the Birmingham Patriots (then Braves) Varsity Basketball team from 1978-81. After studying at the University of Southern California (USC), he went on to a career in management.

Rick struggled with substance abuse addiction for most of his adult life, but he successfully confronted numerous challenges along the way. He was a beloved mentor to many young people in recovery who reached out to him for support and guidance. Connecting with others brought him happiness and he will be remembered for his insight, his genuineness, his smile, and the spark he brought to every room he entered. 

Rick was an animal lover and his greatest joy was spending time at the beach or at local parks with his beloved dog, Maggie. He is survived by his mother Marilee Weida, whom he lovingly cared for until his untimely passing; younger brothers David James Weida, George Bradley Weida, and Craig Miller Weida; Sister-in-law Tristen Greenleaf Weida; nephews Jake and Brayton; and longtime friend and companion, Laura D’Aniello.

A Celebration of Life will be held for immediate family and close friends. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations on Rick’s behalf may be sent to Golden Years Dog Sanctuary, a nonprofit organization located in Sylmar, CA providing senior dogs a last loving home.