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Richard (Rick) Lamonica of Crestwood, Missouri died July 13 2026 at the age of 78 following complications from West Nile virus contracted in August 2025.
He is survived by his wife and companion, Rita (Scheppner); and two brothers: his brother, Robert (Bob) Lamonica and his wife, Jane Heyse, of Santa Cruz CA; and his brother, Steven (Steve) and wife, Cheryl, of Pittsford NY.
Rick was a 1966 graduate of Jamestown High School. He earned his Bachelors Degree from Rochester Institute of Technology and pursued graduate work at St Louis University.
Rick loved his dogs. So he'd want his dog Ida mentioned. He'd also like to see the names of his dogs that brought him joy--Rhenia, Ralph, Rutherford, Rosie, Rio, Rory, and Roxie. If there is a heaven, his dogs will be there with him.
At the end, Rick's heart failed, his spirit did not. Despite multiple relapses, he persevered in rehab. His whole life, Rick's heart was set on working to make the world a better place. Most recently, he worked with the Progressive Democrats of America. He was involved and supported causes such as: environmental issues: climate change, preserving natural areas, supporting endangered species. All those "woke" issues: discrimination due to race and gender, insisting on exploring the actual facts of history. He wanted people treated fairly: medical care as a right of all, stopping polluting corporations from setting up in disadvantaged neighborhoods. For years he was a volunteer at Plowsharing Crafts--one of the stores begun by Mennonites as an outlet for third world artisans. He was staunchly anti-war--demonstrating against so many: the Vietnam war, there Nicaraugua/Contra war, the war in Panama, the Iraq war, the Gaza wars. If he hadn't been so sick, he would have demonstrated against the present war with Iran. He was a lover of History and Science, majoring in Biochemistry.
He will be sorely missed. There will be no services immediately. But a ZOOM memorial will be planned. If you are interested in attending, please send a note to justoldrita@gmail.com. In remembrance of Rick--please fight for a better world.