Richard Gaska

I am the Director of Food At First in Ames where Rick volunteered. When Denise came to me and said Rick had had to quit his job because of his disease and asked if there was a possibility that he could help us, I have to admit that I hesitated a little bit. But something told me to do this and ALL of the volunteers here took Rick under our many wings and cared for him while he helped carry large and heavy boxes of food and reach things on top shelves. He never complained or said no to any job whatsoever and was just a joy to be in company with.

The friendships that came from Rick volunteering here were amazing to watch develop and Rick's kindness, love for Denise, his caring for others and his dry sense of humor became a welcome part of our days.

We were sad when they decided to leave Ames, but understood. At his going away party, Rick gave the best Thank you speech you have ever heard, there was not a dry eye at the table. He had very clear thoughts and conveyed his gratitude for us giving him rides, showing him the ropes and kindness.

Our sympathy to Denise and all the family. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Patty Yoder
Food At First
Free Meal Program and Food Pantry

I first met Rick in junior high. We became friends in Mrs. Douglas `s English and Social Science class, were Rick helped me get through diagraming sentences.

During the winter Rick, Brad, Dave and I played hundreds (maybe not that many) of ice hockey games.

We were friends through high school but lost touch after that.

I am sorry for your loss. I have some very fond memories of my old friend.

Warren Scott

Rick was my supervisor at RR Donnelley & he was a very kindhearted person. He will be missed.

I met Rick at Food at First in Ames through Kiwanis. He was a really nice guy and always willing to help! We worked with him on other projects in Kiwanis as well and he is sadly missed. All the best to the family.

I met Rick at Food at First through Kiwanis in Ames and continued to work with him through other Kiwanis activities. He was a wonderful guy and very giving of his time! He would always help any way he could. We are grateful for the time we were able to spend with him.

Rick you were the best friend anyone could ever ask for!
I will never forget when you and David Carlino came to visit me in the hospital when I was diagnosed with MS and you brought me an ice cold Old Style!!
You were the best in any situation. You will be missed tremendously!

Rick Gaska was an all around great friend, ZBT brother who always took the time to listen, share stories, have a laugh together, and took an interest in every Monmouth College student and faculty. He modeled what every ZBT brother should be, kind, compassionate, and always had your back through any situation. Rick Gaska will me missed dearly as well as taken way too soon before his time. God just needed more Angels like Rick in Heaven to do his work. Miss you Rick, but I am sure glad I got to sit by you at the ZBT new house like old times one last time before the Lord decided he needed you more than on this earth. Prayers for healing go out to the Gaska family and Denise.