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Richard Vanis Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Richard Vanis
Sponsored by Denis P. Sauvageau.
Denis & Virginia Sauvageau
July 18, 2025
Best friend and doctor I ever had and to this day I still miss you very much and think of you often. It's been eleven years and to me it still seems like yesterday that I had my doctor visit with you. Love you always my dear friend.
Denis & Virginia Sauvageau
July 18, 2024
Richard you may be gone but you will never be forgotten for the care and especially the friendship that evolved as more than a patient. We love and miss you very much, Denis & Virginia Sauvageau
Stephen A Barry
July 19, 2022
Dick, may you rest in peace
Jen
January 30, 2015
You will be missed! You were a wonderful surgeon and man. Thank you for putting up with all of my figure skating injuries and my stubbornness to get back on the ice quickly. Thank you for repairing myself,my family and my friends. You hold a dear place in my heart.
Leonard & Marilyn Churchman
December 2, 2014
We just learned of Dick's passing today as we received the note of his replacement. It is with a heavy heart that I extend my sympathies to Marry and his beautiful family. It was always such a pleasure to spend time with him in an office visit as his sense of humor combined with his knowledge made our visits there the highlight of our day. As a colleague at Methodist Hospital, Len saw him more often than I did but it was evident to both of us that he was a very special man. We feel honored to have known him. May he rest in peace. Marilyn and Leonard Churchman
Theresa Christenson
November 26, 2014
I just learned today of Dr Vanis' passing and when I read Mrs Vanis' letter my heart sunk. I had been seeing Dr Vanis for over 20 years - he could see first hand what a klutz I am - and he always had a happy, yet fiesty way about him. He was the most dedicated doctor I had ever been to. My heart and thoughts go out to his family. He will me sorely missed by many, many people.
Gail Becker
October 27, 2014
I just became aware of Dr. Vanis' death. I am so sorry and extend my sympathies to his family. He was a great doctor--set my broken bones 23 years ago and was so kind. He will certainly be missed and I am glad to have known him.
Sincere condolences.
Bob Gunther
September 17, 2014
How saddened I am to have just found out the news of Dr. Vanis' passing. To his family he spoke of you often. I had the lucky opportunity to be one of his patients and I consider myself lucky to have met such a kind, compassionate, and genuinely great individual who not only shared his sense of humor with me but the love of family. I am saddened for your loss, and pray you find comfort in the coming days, months, years.
Jerry Vicario
August 11, 2014
Dear Mary Vanis,
I had called to obtain my records and I came in at 2pm, and started talking about Dr.Vanis. Did not realize that he had passed on, and one of the girls in the office, and one was his niece, and said he had passed away July 21st. He was a good friend, and a great Dr, that I've have known for 13yrs for replacing both my knees. He helped me with all my trouble of work and knowing that no other Dr. would do what he had done for me. When I had heard of his passing from the girls in the office I walked out, and I cried all the way home. Sorry for your loss,and I'm still feeling the pain from such a great person. He's in a better place now, and I hope to see him when I pass on. My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Sue and Bill Reno
August 5, 2014
Our hearts go out to Mary and the family. We loved him for being the Doctor and man that he was. He healed our hips, knees and shoulder. God has gained a great man.
Randa Keysselitz
July 31, 2014
We are very sad for your loss. With deepest sympathy from the Staff at Prime Clinical Systems Inc.
Marty Beteta
July 30, 2014
Dr Vanis was a client of the company I work for. Although I spoke to Mary on many occasions I only had the pleasure of meeting Dr Vanis a couple of times. I am deeply saddened to hear about his passing. My thoughts and prayers are with Mary and his family
Lesley
July 28, 2014
May the beautiful memories of your loved one provide solace and strength to you and your family during this difficult time. May you also find much comfort in God's promise of life without end in Paradise. Matthew 5:5 Acts 25:15
Fred & Elaine Hagedorn
July 28, 2014
To Mary & Family,
Our deepest sympathy. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
July 28, 2014
My dearest Mary and Children,
We just found out about Richard's passing. We are speechless he was not only our doctor for over 30 years but also a very special friend. We saw him 2 weeks ago and will always remember his beautiful smile and how fortunate we are to have know him for all these years. We wish we would have been able to attend his services but did not find out until this morning. God knew best I guess. God bless you and your beautiful family of which Richard was so proud. He will be missed by all of us but his memories will always remain in our hearts. Our love and support go out to you and your family.
Denis & Virginia Sauvageau
Bill & Florence McEwen
July 27, 2014
Dick was a genuine force, and always a source of energy and strength. His joy of living was as contagious as it was obvious, and we'll try to keep true to his legacy as we miss his larger-than-life presence here on Balboa Island. With love and prayers for Dick and for his amazing family.
Paul Moran
July 26, 2014
My family's most heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Vanis family. From the first day Matt (and later Mark) and myself were little league teammates on Live Oak Bike Shop for Arcadia Coast until very recently Dick would always make himself available to treat some nagging injury as a result of athletics or law enforcement work. I always appreciated the jokes and wit as much as the care. He was a dedicated man in every facet of his life. May he rest in peace.
Leo Turgeon
July 26, 2014
My thoughts and sympathy to Mary and the family.
Melanie and Jerry Hinton
July 26, 2014
Forty years ago on a quiet street in St. Louis, we began our journey together as friends, as young parents to our growing families. Always friends but how quickly we became grandparents, knowing the joy of new little ones to love. All the wonderful memories will warm our saddened hearts as we know they will comfort you in the days ahead. Our love and prayers to all. Melanie and Jerry
July 25, 2014
We were saddened to hear of Dr.Vanis's passing. He was truly a professional in every sense of the word. His passion, energy and acumen will be greatly missed and his skill and consummate care irreplaceable. Our prayers to his family during this difficult time.
Dominic Menton and family
Blessing and prayers to his family during this difficult time.
Shari Dyke
July 25, 2014
I'm saddened to hear of Dr. Vanis's passing. I knew him as a friend during my tenure at Methodist and later he was my son's doctor. May I express my heartfelt condolences to your family. Arcadia, Bradbury and the entire San Gabriel Valley has lost a wonderful loving man.
Frances Pampeyan
July 25, 2014
Dear Cortney and Mike and all the Vanis family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. What a beautiful tribute/obituary. I am glad to have met Dr. Vanis. Years ago we went Christmas caroling at his home. May the Lord comfort you all.
Love, Frances Pampeyan
July 25, 2014
Dear Mary and Family,
We join many, many others in our sadness at Dick's passing. What a wonderful friend he was to us.
John, Angie and Cassie Coleman
Nick and Corinne Papaioanu
July 25, 2014
We are so sorry to hear of Dr. Vanis's passing. We were very fortunate to know him. We are sorry we cannot attend today but are thinking of you and yours. Lots of love to you and your wonderful family! God Bless all of you!
July 25, 2014
Mary, Please accept our heartfelt sympathies. Dick
Was a wonderful person, and a friend to all. Among
Other things, he fixed Barbara's shoulder, Johnny's
Wrist, Jimmy's nose, and my knees. He will be missed by all for his kindness, concern for others,
And his quick wit. May he rest in peace under God's love.
Bill and Barbara Schnieders
Ross Porter
July 25, 2014
Requiescat in pace, Dick. Prayers for the whole family. Love, Ross and Jenni Porter
Kim Basso Guerentz
July 25, 2014
Mary and Family,
I wish I was able to fly out for the services and the to share in the Dick stories. While I am not there physically, I am there in spirit. I am so grateful I was out last year to get a dose of Dick. He and your family hold a special place in my heart.
Dick was a one of kind. Heaven's in for a shake up! Love you guys!
July 25, 2014
So sorry to hear of Dr. Vanis's passing. He replaced my knee almost 10 years ago. He made me laugh even in the midst of my pain. My prayers go out to your family. Lisa Darling
July 25, 2014
Our prayers are with you all. God bless your wonderful family --
Melissa and Billy Redell
Cheryl Dickinson
July 25, 2014
It broke me up to see he passed. I was a patient and saw him in April. He walked in and said"What's wrong?" I had no idea the stress from work was written all over my face. He. was a bone dr but he was all about heart. Forget the knees, he was so special and got to the heart of the matter. He was a dr of the heart and soul. Didn't know he had 8 children, you all have a very rich heritage!!
Beverly Rydbom
July 24, 2014
The world has been a better place because of Dick he will be greatly missed, but not forgotten..Love and prayers to all the Vanis' from the The Rydboms'
Sheri Drewry
July 24, 2014
All of us at Wilma's Patio are deeply saddened at the passing of Dr. Vanis. He will be greatly missed on Sunday's after mass. We feel like we are part of your extended family and words can not describe how much we will miss him. Our Love goes out to your family from ours.
With Love,
Wilma's patio crew and Wilma Staudinger.
julie kane-parrett
July 24, 2014
God Bless this beautiful family. What a beautiful memory of such a kind man. My parents have such wonderful memories of Dr. Vanis and his lovely wife Mary. They were dear friends. Much love and peace to his family and all who loved him. He will be missed.
Angie and Tom Keegan
July 24, 2014
Tom and I send our loving thoughts and prayers to the Vanis and Goodwin families. Although it has been a long time since we last saw Dick, we have good memories of his strong presence and great sense of humor. We are so very sorry for your loss. Angie (Carlson) and Tom Keegan
Paul Turgeon
July 24, 2014
Mary and Family, I am so sorry to hear about Dick's passing. Our families have been so intertwined over the last 3/4's of a Century. I was a youngster at your wedding and I've watched your kids grow up. I recently noted a grandchild in my spring Loyola football program. I am sorry that I cannot be in Pasadena tomorrow, but please know that I am remembering one of the great Cubs and (Grand)Dads, as well as your entire family.
Sincerely,
Paul Turgeon and Family
July 24, 2014
Clarence and I were deeply saddened to hear of this dear man's passing. He cared greatly for us and our children, Kevin and Kimberly (Boyd), and many friends. Please know our hearts are heavy for you, Mary, and all your children and grandchildren.
Kathy & Clarence Apel
July 24, 2014
Dr Vanis was a true legend. I will forever remember his smile, laugh and great sense of humor. To the Vanis family, I am so sorry for your loss. I know you have many fond memories of a great dad, granddad and husband! xoxo Page Malloy
Steve and becky Nielsen
July 24, 2014
To the vanis family.
Our love and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Jeanne Hanson
July 24, 2014
We are praying for the family, and offer our deepest condolences.
Michael Golden
July 24, 2014
Dear Vanis Family,
We were so saddened to hear of the passing of Richard Sr. Although it has been nearly 30 years since we lived on your estate in Bradbury, we still have fond memories of you all, including Dick, who was always very respectful and kind to Anna and I. We too, in return respected him tremendously and we LOVED all of you "kids" like family. Our heartfelt and deepest sympathies and prayers to all of you, and blessings abundant during this most difficult time. I will be sure to include Dick in our morning prayer for our worship team this Sunday, which I play bass and sing in.
Peace and love be with you all,
With our blessings,
Michael and Anna Golden
Sandy and Kathy Rosenberg
July 24, 2014
To the VAnis family. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you during this time. Dr vanis was truly an exceptional doctor and human being. He will be deeply missed by all of us
Michael & Anna Golden
July 24, 2014
Mary & Family
Our Deepest Sympathy for your loss.
We lift you up in prayer for comfort, strength, and peace.
Fill your broken hearts with all the love and memories that you have shared.
RIP Mr. Vanis
With love
Anna & Michael Golden
Ann Nader
July 24, 2014
A special man begets a special family. We are all better people sharing a part of this man and his family. ann Nader
July 24, 2014
With deepest Sympathy. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Diane Przepiorski
July 24, 2014
Our deepest sympathy to your entire family from the leadership, members, and friends at the California Orthopaedic Associaton.
Anita Peralez
July 24, 2014
My thoughts and prayers for a wonderful family man and doctor. So sad to hear he passed away. He will be deeply missed!
Harold Conde
July 24, 2014
Harold "Skip" Conde, fellow Loyola Cub and football player. I highly respected Rich as a man of God and a professional.
Steve Pingel
July 24, 2014
I had the pleasure and privilege to play with Dick on the 61 football team and later as a Phi Delt brother. His humor was infectious. A sad loss, but a GREAT guy. God's blessings to all.
Andrew Berner
July 24, 2014
My sincere condolences on your loss. My family lived 2 doors away from the Santeens on Fuller St when we were in grade school. Dick's grandmother Katherine was a true matriarch, and his mother was very sweet and kind. Dick had drive, motivation, and kindness even when we were kids. He will be missed. You are in my prayers. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Cindy Panackia
July 24, 2014
Maggie, Mark, and family-
please know we are thinking and praying for your family at this most difficult time.
Love Cindy and Tom
July 24, 2014
-Richard and Connie Carroll, Mooresville, North Carolina
Richard & Kathi Schoenrock
July 24, 2014
Not only a great doctor, but a truly kind and caring man. You will be missed!
July 24, 2014
John and I have know Dr. Vanis for many years and Mary also. Our heartfelt sympathy go out to you and we pray that God will hold you and his loving family in the palm of his have during the emotional time. Love Sara & John
Judy (Jacoby) Famiglietti
July 24, 2014
We are so sorry for your loss. With our deepest sympathy and prayers, may peace be with you. With love, Judy & Richard Famiglietti
Jennifer and Robert Doolittle
July 24, 2014
Dr. Vanis replaced my husband's knee 22 years ago, he was a kind and caring man who you couldn't help but instantly love. He will be deeply missed. Prayers for his family.
Mike Marr
July 24, 2014
I was lucky enough to see Dr. Vanis more in the last six months than I ever did during my time at Loyola with his son, Mark. By pure coincidence, the Vanises and Marrs would often bump into each other at Brookside Golf Course having brunch on the patio. He and Mary were always nice enough to come over to say hello to my mom, my wife, my kids, and me. I'm so grateful to have a recent, fresh, positive memory of him that I can carry with me for the rest of my days.
Carlos Pelaitai
July 24, 2014
Wonderful doctor! Waited on you both in the Doctor's Dining at AMH. He Loved the tuna salad! So glad to have known him!
Todd Hoover
July 24, 2014
To all the Vanis family, I am truly sorry for your great loss. There are no words that can heal the hurt now, but I will pray for all of you.
Lester Wakefield
July 24, 2014
Extremely competent sugeon, compassionate with a great sense of humor. Glad he did my 4 surgeries, all with great results.
Steve Barry
July 24, 2014
Dick, I know you will be running interference for us in heaven. To a great teammate, a wonderful man and doctor, and a good friend.
Nancy Okelly
July 24, 2014
Mary I have great memories of your visits in mammoth at Okelly- Dunn- sorry for your loss
Carol Goldthwait
July 24, 2014
Dr. Vanis was certainly a force to be reckined with! I will always remember the twinkle in his eyes as he told his many jokes. Along with Mrs. Vanis, he raised a fantastic family and created a beautiful life.
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