Richard Lage
April 02, 2009
Richard John Lage, 78, passed away on April 2, 2009. Visitation will be on Saturday, April 4, 2009 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon with a memorial service at 12:00 noon at Hamilton’s on Westown Parkway, 3601 Westown Parkway, West Des Moines, IA.
Rick was born on April 1, 1931 to Emil and Gladyce (Guertin) Lage in Hartley, IA. He attended the University of San Francisco, was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and his professional acting career culminated in a primary role in “The Bridges of Madison County.” He met Jan at the Des Moines Playhouse during an audition for “Dylan”. He was awarded the lead role of Dylan and Jan the part of a stripper, it was love at first site and they were together for 40 years. Rick also enjoyed reading, music, Shakespeare, watching the Vikings and the Hawkeye’s play football, and was very active in community theatre.
He is survived by his wife Janice; sons, Erich (Tami), Brian and Todd; daughter, Leslie; seven grandchildren, Jescica, Adriel, Erica, Nicole, Taylor, Tony and Max; six great-grandchildren, Erich, Natalie, Lauryn, Alec, Olivia and Nuria; sister, Janice Rodriquez and sister-in-law, Jane Wonderlich.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the family.
www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com
Stephanie Shaffer Martinez
04/03/2009
Jan and family - I was so sorry to hear of Rick's passing. What a fantastic, warm, loving and lovable man. The world was better for his being in it. My love and prayers are with you for peace and comfort as you celebrate his wonderful life.
Kim, John and Kaitlyn Busbee
04/03/2009
Jan and family:
Our hearts go out to you and your family! Rick was one of the kindest, most intelligent, most gifted individuals we have had the pleasure to know. He always was supportive of others and yet he had a terrific sense of humor and often teased people who knew him well. He made us laugh and we always had such fun because of Rick!
We loved working with hime at The Ingersoll and, of course, in Haunting Villisca. European audiences in Vienna, Austria really enjoyed him as the Judge at the film's Premiere. His acting talent was amazing!
We are sorry that we will not be able to attend the funeral since a childhood friend also passed and that funeral is at the same time in Boone. But, we send our love, prayers and gratitude for knowing such a wonderful guy. Rick will be greatly missed!
Love,
Kim, John and Kaitlyn Busbee
Travis Kuntz
04/03/2009
Knowing Rick has been such an honor. His rich spirit and love of life has always inspired me.
I take with me always his bits of humor and wisdom. I cherish the time we spent together and my deepest sympathy to the entire family.
Kevin Spire
04/03/2009
I have fond memories of performing on stage with Rick. He was (and always will be) such a kind and loving soul to be around. He always made me feel comfortable with who I am and what I was able to do. He will be missed by many.
Harvey & Sandy Olsthoorn
04/03/2009
We feel very honored to have known Rich for the past two decades. He was such a genuine person and real friend. We will truly miss him.
DJ Horrigan
04/03/2009
Rick was a wonderful person to be around and a joy to have onstage. He will truly be missed as a person and valued part of the Des Moines acting community.
Mike McMahon
04/03/2009
Erich and Tami,
We are so sorry for your loss. We know this has been a particularly difficult week for both of you. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Mike and Pat
Brad Church
04/03/2009
So sorry for your loss. Rick was a wonderful man and so much fun to do shows with. He will always be remembered fondly!
Brad
Susan Jessen
04/03/2009
To Erich, Mrs. Lage, and the rest of the Lage family: My deepest condolences at the loss of your loved one. May God comfort you during this time, and may you find peace and happiness in your memories of Richard.