Richard Tapscott
December 01, 2013
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Service Details
Richard Tapscott, 65, passed away on December 1, 2013. Family will greet friends on Wednesday, December 4, 2013 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway in West Des Moines. A private family memorial service will be held on Thursday morning.
Rick was born on March 17, 1948 in Trenton, Missouri to Margaret (Ellis) and Farrell Tapscott. He graduated from the University of Missouri School of Journalism and worked for several newspapers during his career, including the Washington Post, The Des Moines Register, and other newspapers in Wilmington, DE; Kansas City, Wichita, Oklahoma City, Fayetteville, NC and Trenton, MO. He retired from the newspaper business in 2007 and began teaching at Drake University. Rick was beloved and respected by his peers, his coworkers, and his students.
Rick had three loves in his life, his children, his wife, and The Lake.
He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Barbara; his children, Graham (Tiffany) Tapscott, Blaine (Colleen) Tapscott, and Amy Tapscott; his grandchildren, Iain, Brady and Quinn Tapscott; his siblings, Robert (Evelyn) Tapscott, Ronald (Doris) Tapscott, and Shirley (Tom) Trainer; sisters-in-law, Linda (Gary) Dreessen, and Susan Musfeldt; brothers-in-law, Steve and Dale (Vicky) Musfeldt; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Drake University School of Journalism and Mass Communications Scholarship Fund in honor of Professor Richard Tapscott. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.
Shirley Carswell
12/10/2013
To Barbara and family: I worked with Rick at the Washington Post, and always found him to be a considerate, funny, upstanding journalist. I'm so sorry for your loss. Praying for you during this most difficult time.
Steve Feinstein
12/10/2013
I knew Rick from his days at the Washington Post and mine as staff to the Maryland General Assembly. We shared the same sense of humor, insatiable appetite for political discussion, and a love for pro and college sports. Most memorable were the two times I visited Rick and Barb in Des Moines. I got a personalized tour of the Register newsroom and of course, an outstanding steak dinner at a legendary local joint. My heart, thoughts, and prayers go out to Barb. While now living in the Toronto suburbs, I will raise a Molson Canadian in Ricks honour.
Roger Baugher
12/04/2013
Rick and I became best friends in Junior High in Trenton and although we were separated by miles and years, that closeness never changed. I will truly miss him and the stories we shared. He was always a gentleman in every sense and a true professional with a sense of humor that could overwhelm. Our thoughts are with Barb and family.
Bonny Hendricksmeyer
12/04/2013
Barb: So sorry to hear about your loss. My healing thoughts are with you and your family.
Jessica Sheets
12/04/2013
Mr. Tapscott was a professor of mine while I was at Drake University. He was a great teacher. He not only taught his students about good journalism, but about the passion of writing factual, ethical journalism. . It was a pleasure to learn a skill I appreciate everyday from such a wonderful man. My deepest condolences to his family
Todd Spangler
12/04/2013
He was the best of the best, the best friend and best colleague I could have hoped for in those days when we both roamed the basement of the Maryland State House looking for trouble to get into. To Barb and the family--my most heartfelt condolences. I had hoped for a miracle when I talked to Rick about his condition, but it wasn't to be. I just thank God--or whomever--that I got to know Rick, crack crab with Rick, drink beer with Rick and laugh, laugh, laugh. I'll never forget him.
Jeffrey Yorke
12/04/2013
Rick was a wonderful, inspiring and quietly strong editor (WashPost) who only a few of the really lucky get to work with. He had a wicked sense of humor and a compassion for all. I also enjoyed him (and Barbara) as my neighbor in Cheverly and am saddened to hear of his death. My best to Barbara and his children.
Steve Paul
12/04/2013
Barbara: I was hoping to reach you by phone, but no luck. I was shocked and saddened the other day. Rick was the coolest, smartest editor in the room; sorry we hadn't seen the two of you in a while. My heart and hugs go out to you. Wish I could get away today for visitation, but it's looking doubtful. Carol and I send condolences and love.
Avram Goldstein
12/03/2013
I had the privilege of working with Rick on the Maryland desk of the Washington Post in the 1990s. I remember him as a top-notch journalist - both reporter and editor - and a truly decent man who cared for and about his co-workers. When he became Maryland editor, he motivated his colleagues to do more and do better. He helped me during a personally challenging time, and I will always be grateful for his friendship. To Barb and Rick's family, I offer my heartfelt condolences.
Steve shirk
12/03/2013
Knowing and working with Rick was a real privilege. He represented everything that was good about our business. It is difficult to find a kinder or more dedicated person.
Joe Tedesco
12/03/2013
With heartfelt sympathy to Barb and all of Rick's Family, and journalism family. It was an honor to briefly witness the intellect and passion of this wonderful newsman. My prayer is that you can celebrate this great man's life on earth. Go with God's Love as this is just our temporary home.
Donna Clark Jackson
12/03/2013
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, I attended school with Rick in Trenton. He was a very nice guy. Remember your memories, cherish the years you had with him. I will lift you and your family in prayers, asking God to give you comfort and strength.
In his service
Donna
Renee Miller
12/03/2013
Dear Barb -
I was so saddened to hear of Rick's passing. Lis had been keeping me updated over the past few weeks...so you have been in my prayers and will continue to be. My heart breaks for you and your family - but I hope the memories and love you share will sustain you through this difficult time.
Please know I will continue to keep you and your kids close in prayer! May God be with you and bless you as you heal from this loss.
Love and prayers - Renee
Mary Welch Rogers
12/03/2013
Rick was my older sister's first boyfriend in grade school back in Trenton, Missouri. I was the younger sister, but got to know Rick as we grew older. He was one of the first to encourage me to follow my dream of having career as a singer. He followed his dream of becoming a journalist. I am sure he encouraged many others along the way. I am grateful to have known him and send my deepest sympathy to his wife, his children and family. He will be missed.
Linda (Davidson) Rodenberg
12/03/2013
My condolences to Rick's family and friends. Rick was one of the good guys in Trenton. I am so sorry for his passing. He will be watching and caring for all of you.