Richard Morris Vanderhaar

Richard Morris Vanderhaar, known affectionately as Rick (or Papa) to his family and friends, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2025, in Orange, California. Born on December 7, 1941, in Pasadena, California, Rick's journey through life was marked by his generous spirit, loving nature, steadfast loyalty, and unwavering kindness to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Rick spent his early years in Pasadena as the eldest child of Raymond (Bud) and Daisy Vanderhaar. He adored his only sibling, Diane, who passed away from leukemia in 1960 shortly before her sixteenth birthday. Susan Marie Coleman (Sue), who became Rick's devoted wife and life partner of 60 years, was Diane's best friend. The connection between the Vanderhaar and Coleman families originated with their parents' friendship, which began well before the births of Rick and Sue. Over the years, the two families frequently vacationed and celebrated holidays together. This long-standing association planted the seeds that ultimately grew into a beautiful legacy of love, marriage, and future generations.

Rick attended Our Lady of Assumption Catholic School where he claimed his favorite subject was recess, and his favorite activity was talking. He developed close friendships during elementary school that he maintained throughout his life. After graduating from Pasadena High School, he earned a degree from Pasadena City College before beginning a career that would span three decades as an Engineer at Pacific Bell.

In 1964, Rick was drafted into the US Army and assigned to service in the Military Police. He served his country with honor in Vietnam. His commitment to service did not end with his discharge in February 1966; he continued to contribute to national security through the Coast Guard Reserve for an additional two years. In recent years, he became a veterans' advocate, sporting his veteran hat, launching a veteran group in his community, and connecting veterans to the services offered by the Veterans Administration.

During a home leave visit following boot camp, Rick came to the realization that Sue was the true love of his life – a conclusion Sue had already reached. Rick coordinated the purchase of a ring from long-distance, and he proposed over the phone, with his father doing the honors of placing the engagement ring on Sue's finger. They married on October 3, 1964, honeymooned briefly in San Diego, before moving to Fort Hood Army Base in Texas. It was a true blessing last October when Rick and Sue celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with family and friends during multiple parties in Southern and Northern California.

Rick's social nature meant he was never short of conversation, and his warmth drew people to him. Travel was one of his favorite passions. Camping trips in Northern California, the Pacific Northwest, and Canada created many cherished childhood memories for his daughters. He was happiest near the beach and in the ocean, dipping his toes in the chilly water just days before his passing. In later years, he and Sue enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe, and made especially fond memories in Hawaii with their dear friends Dennis and Kathy Lawrence.

After retirement, Rick honed his interest in woodworking, creating beautiful pieces for his beloved grandchildren. His love of woodworking increased immensely whenever he could share his workshop with his grandchildren, fostering their creative talents. He also took great pride in restoring his father's '57 Chevy truck, driving it in the Orange May Day parade and around the Plaza (occasionally with the horn accidentally blaring). He enjoyed teaching his grandsons to use the column shift gear, and was thrilled to hand the keys on to one of them earlier this year, ensuring that his Chevy will continue to cruise along the beach for years to come.
Rick's joy in the holidays was palpable. His homemade "Papa Fudge" was a highly anticipated treat for family and friends at Christmas and Easter. He was fully committed to his role as "the real Santa," growing out his beard beginning in early fall and donning a full Santa suit. His jolly spirit and hearty laugh completed the look much to the delight of children at church and in the local schools.
Rick's faith was a cornerstone of his life. Raised in the Catholic faith, he served as an altar boy in his youth and later as a member of the Knights of Columbus. His love for the Lord was evident in his every action.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion in his family. His wife, Sue, was his partner in every aspect of life, and together they built a family that embodied their values. He is survived by his four daughters, Diane and her husband Todd Kennedy, Lisa and her husband Tony Turke, Liane Vanderhaar, and Dawn and her husband Mark Olsgaard. He was immeasurably proud of his six grandchildren – Colin and his wife Elise, Rob, Garrett, Charlie, and Adeline – who will miss their Papa's boundless affection, heartfelt conversations and messages, and "Bigfoot" stories.

To say that Rick was loved is an understatement. He was the heart of his family, a beacon in his community, and a friend to all. Rick Vanderhaar lived a life that was full, a life that mattered, and he will be dearly missed. His impact will continue to be felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing him, and his memory will be cherished forever.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial contributions be made to: Wounded Warrior Project or City of Hope two organizations that meant so much to Rick.

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