The first time I saw Rick, he was yelling at me while I was playing against City High in Basketball... At that time, I wondered who this guy was yelling at me in the stands... Late that year, I was selected to play in the North-South Shrine football game and I then met Rick for the first time... We became instant friends... later that Fall, I attended the University of Iowa on a football scholarship and got to spent lots of time with Rick... Rick was a special person... Today I happened to think of Rick and saw that he passed - this broke my heart as Rick was a special friend.... Rick was just a good guy period and you could not ask of a better person to talk to... I will miss Rick and one day I will see him again !! My god bless his family as his life is one to celebrate.... Jon Lazar

Patty, thank you for sharing some of your stories with me tonight.

It means alot to me. The love you shared with Rick is everlasting Patty. Please know many care for you.

brj

Dear Griffin Family - So sorry to hear about Rick. It was always fun for our family to run into him when we were back. He was such a great presence - hard to believe he is gone. My thoughts are with you.

Sorry to hear of Griff's passing, he new my father and I also played softball with him a couple of seasons. We thinking of your family and there well being.

I am so sorry I did not make the service but I just found out. I am so glad he got to see his grandchild born before he left this earth. I worked with your dad at West and he was the biggest thing I ever met. He was a good guy , he was a big guy and he was a guy you did not want to mess with. I just saw Griff last month at another servece and it was just sad to see how sick he was. But he is no longer in pain and that is a good thing. I pray you girls are able to understand this loss and to move on in your lives. God Bless

I'm not sure I can add anything beyond the impressive comments already written about the "The Griff." I think we would all agree Rick was born with a kind soul and it never changed as he grew older. I'm sorry he's gone; it was way too early. Maybe now that he's in heaven he knows when the Cubs will win a World Series.

Griffin Family,

I only got the chance to work with Rick for 2 years. I work out of the West Union branch and only met him in person one time but the thing I will miss most about him is that deep voice helping me through a situation. When I first started at Hawkeye he was one of the lifelines I held onto and he will be sorely missed.

You all have my sympathy.

Kelsey and Kayla,

Griff-

I met one of Rick's daughters only the other night in the hospital and asked her if he had coached in Lone Tree. It had been many years since I had seen Rick as it was my brother's senior year at LT when Rick was the head wrestling coach there back in 1981-1982. Our family is very sorry for your loss and hopeful that good memories will comfort you. My Dad, Zarb, as I'm sure Rick would have remembered him, was an ever present fan around the wrestling mat, also lost his battle with cancer just over 10 years ago. It's not easy to lose these great dads, but those memories unique to each of you are blessings to hold onto forever. You're in our thoughts and prayers.

I am so sadden that all of you have lost your beloved "Griff". I met Rick a few years ago thanks to my late husband, Bruce Davis. His smile, positive attitude, and his BIG hugs will be something I will always remember him for. I know at this time nothing anyone may say will ease your pain. Time and a lot of support from friends and family will be what you need. He is once again strong, healthy and free of pain.

Griff was my inside sales rep at Hawkeye for about 8 years until I left in June 2008. I talked to him several times a day. I loved him and always appreciated the work he did for me. Over the years, we had many of great conversations and he was a true family man, and a true gentleman. I found out he was sick around Christmas and sent him a card. He called me afterwards and it was great to talk to him, he really sounded great. I feel so bad when I found he had passed, I did not know how bad he really was. I was unable to make it down for his services, but I wanted to send my heartfelt condolences. Griff was such a great person and I am sure you all will miss him dearly. I know I will. But if I know "The Griffer", he is having a cold one and laughing his big. deep hearty laugh, and watching the Cubs! I feel better for knowing him, and you and Rick are in my thoughts and prayers.

Tom Thiltgen

My deepest sympathy to the Griffin Family. Rickie was full of love and kindness to all. I will always remember his smile and kind words.

During the past 30 years I was blessed with Griff being one of my best friends. He enjoyed all the Denver trips to watch the Cubs beat up on the Rockies. I had a 160lb Great Pyrenees named "Barney" which he bonded with. They were both such gentle giants. Our conversations about the Cubs and Hawks were never ending and some times he broke out in song. He such a great voice! The memories will always be a part of my life. My thoughts and prayers go out to Griff's family and friends.

It is Hard to accept your passing Griff. You were a bigger than life personality. It was an honor to call you a friend. I will always remember the times I made Lasagna or "spag sauce" and you were always there to join Metz and Donny and I!

We will miss you Rick! Rick was always there to help when you needed him. As co-workers from a distance away you don't always know each others personal life. After reading so many letters what a great life and impression Rick left upon so many! A testament to the great life of a great man. May God bless you in heaven and your family on earth.

Rick was just amazing to work with...he always had a such a great attitude!!. Every time I picked up the phone with an issue, Rick would always calm me down and always came back with a solution. He will be truely missed by the entire Jamba family and wish and hope his family strength to cope with this loss. Regards, Harsha

I first met Rick when I first met my husband (Mark). It was years later, but they still had remained close friends from their City High School days. Rick was a larger-than-life man, but when I got to know him, seemed to have a "teddy bear" nature about him. When Mark and I married, Rick was a groomsman in our wedding. Many years later, I also remember Rick as the friend to give me a larger-than-life hug at Mark's visitation.

On behalf of Mark and myself, I want to extend my deepest sympathies to Rick's family and pray that his strength be your strength during this sad time.

Heartfelt thoughts are with you all,

Adalla Bean

I was stunned to learn of Rick's passing. I don't think I've seen him since high school but many wonderful memories of him have come flooding back to me. He was truly a "gentle giant"; a larger than life individual who had an infectious laugh and a gentle spirit. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this very difficult time.

You will be missed Rick, but you are now together with your parents in a much better place.

On behalf of Sharm, I want to extend my deepest condolences to Rick's family and friends. I didn't know him well, but do always remember his great smileand the fact that he loved those Cubs!

Let's celebrate Rick's life , the goodness he shared with so many speaks clearly about the man , an example we can all hope to follow .

We haven't seen Griff in years, but I remember him as a gentle man, when he drove our limo at our wedding he was so great with our nieces that were the flower girls and we have some pictures of him from our wedding that we will cherish forever. Rest in Peace Rick. Heaven got a good one!

Todd-Sam & Julie Burch Hyde

Barb & i send our condolences to Ricks's family. I worked with Rick at Hawkeye, and after I left and came back as a supplier rep, Ricks always had a smile, a story and probably a bear hug.

Rick was the most gentle person we ever met. His smile and sense of humor was contagious. We are honored that we met him and were friends. I'll never forget the trip to the Minnesota/Hawkeye game for Metz' birthday years back, I've never known anyone that snored like he did. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.

Phil & Jodi

I so remember the day back at Longfellow Elementary School here in Iowa City, that we were lined up to get some sort of shot they administered at school. Rick was standing in line not far from me. As we inched closer to the nurses, he became more nervous...and was sort of dancing around. Each student sat down in the chair, grimaced a bit as they received the shot, then walked off. Not Rick. Not this child that was the biggest in the class. No....Rick didn't just grimace...Rick let out the loudest scream i had ever heard!!! Tears streamed down his face...and the needle had not even touch his arm yet! They were able to calm him down, to administer the shot...but that big teddy bear of a guy...walked away with the biggest tears I had ever seen!

I will always have that vision of Rick embedded in my heart. I will always carry with me the caring words Rick spoke. The roar of laughter he shared. The kindness he showed to others. You will be missed my friend. Linda Sexton Fobian

Our deepest sympathies at your loss, Griff was a great friend and a kind hearted person that will always be remembered for his big heart. There wasn't a time when I did not see him without a smile on his face. He was always happy to see his friends, he will be missed by all of us. Know that out thoughts are with you, keep your memories close to your heart and you will get through the tough times ahead.

-Stef and Keith Swails

Rick you will always be my coach!! I love you and I will miss you forever!!

Griffster you were the best man friend I've ever had. No matter what you were always there for me. I'm very sad that you are no longer here with me but I know you are watching over me and everyone else you loved. Your worries and pain are over now and I know you are in a better place. Put in a good word for me up there. I will love you forever.

Your friend,

Beckster

To Rick Griffin - Rest in Peace -- no more sickness, no more pain. Thank you for my 2 beautiful daughters. Keep watching over them and our little Laila, too. I'm so glad she came early enough that you got to see her. Funny how Kayla's original due date was May 11th, but she needed to see her grandpa before he left us, so she was born on April 15th. ♥

Kelsey and family,

Truly a great loss. Griff was one of a kind. I first met Griff through mutual friends, then knew him when he coached my son during football at West High School. Griff and I spent many a night being the armchair quarter backs over a few beers! After I left I.C. 13 years ago, each time I came back to visit, Griff was always there. My deepest sympathy to all of his family.

My condolences to all of Rick's family on his passing, he was a great man. I had the privelege of wrestling for Griff for two years at West High ('88 and '89) and have great memories of him from those days. He was such a towering figure to us, with a booming voice to boot, but his voice boomed with laughter and encouragement as often as it did for instruction or discipline. His enthusiasm in big moments was infectious. After every win at the state tournament he'd slap you on the back (nearly knocking you down) and bellow "Takin' care of business baby!" loud enough to be heard in the rafters at Vets auditorium. He will be missed.

RIcky Griffin was, simply, one of the best guys I grew up with. Fun. Thoughtful. Steady. Optimistic. Always there if you needed him. Although time and distance separates many of us from the City High Class of '75, we are still very close in sprit. And I know we will all deeply feel the loss of RIcky. To the family, and especially the daughters that meant so much to RIcky, know that he was well-loved for the short time he was with us.

RIP GRIFF. My memories of you at City High won't end.

You did so much for everyone in your life. For family and friends, and anyone lucky enough to cross your path in a day. With a smile or a kind word, you gave love in the best way there was, with a caring spirit and a generous heart. You will be in our thoughts and in our hearts forever Griff.

Rest in Peace Dear Friend. We love you.

Rick will be missed by all who knew him. In the years that I knew him he never had a bad thing to say about anyone. He was positive and supportive throughout the 30+ years that I knew him. The last time that I saw him he was talking about one of his daughters moving to AZ (I believe, sorry I am bad with remembering names) He was always inspirational and had positive things to say. He always had time for others no matter what he was doing. I would occasionally run into him at the HyVee and was on a "quick shopping trip" or just shopping he would stop and talk to you as if you were the only thing that mattered at that time. If you were not feeling well or sad or upset about something when you met him your whole day changed for the better he always left things and people better than he found them and if things were going well he made you feel even better. I will miss his smile and his friendship. I have never met anyone else like him at any time during my life and I am better for having been touched by his friendship and acquaintance. You will be missed and remembered.

Everyone that ever met Rick loved him. He was a wonderful man. I am so lucky to have known him for many years. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. One of the best friends you could ever have. He will be missed by so many. The greatest Cub fan ever!! We will see you in heaven Griff!

Rick was like a second father to me. His oldest daughter Kelsey and I were very close for many many many years. His smile and that laugh that so many have commented on was like his heart smiling from the inside out! Whatever it was from teaching Kelsey and I to play a sport, picking us up from school, taking us to a practice or coming home on his lunch breaks over the summer to take us to the pool he always did it without complaining. There was never a doubt that Rick loved LOVED LOVED his girls! ALL of them. Kelsey, Kayla, Patty , Marcia and most of all his new grandaughter. Rick was the type of guy that would do anything and everything he could to make someone elses life better, to help them solve a problem. He truly was a gentle giant with a heart of gold and a smile as big as the sea. May his life, wisdom and memories live on through all of the people he loved and everyones life that he touched!

I met Rick sometime during our junior high years in Iowa City. He was a great person to be around. We played Babe Ruth baseball. He was on an opposing team and I was the pitcher. Rick came up to bat. I knew Rick could hit well so I tried my best not to "put one down the middle"...but I did. Rick sent that ball over the fence and made a home run. I still remember my dad commenting on how well Rick hit that ball and why the heck did I pitch one right to him.

I graduated with Rick from City High in 1975. Everyone at City High knew and loved Rick. I would see Rick from time to time around Iowa City and we always had a nice little conversation. I loved Rick. He will be missed by everyone who's life he touched.

Rest well Rick...I know you are having fun hitting home runs in heaven. I hope to see you there someday old friend!

I have memories of Rick from grade school through high school. When I first learned of his death, my first thought was a " gentle giant" is gone. He was always kind, full of fun and just an all around great guy. My deepest sympathies to the family and friends he leaves behind.

The one thing about Griff is that he always had a smile on his face and laugh to go with it. I won't ever forget that. To the Griffin Family, I have you all in my thoughts and prayers. We all miss ya big guy! Bakes

Phyllis & Mike,

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Lou

I hadn't seen or talked w/ Rick for over a decade, but he was a good friend who befriended me when I moved onto Mayfield Road back in summer of '70. Griff and his family were a super people and he always had the time for a good laugh when we did see one another at times over the years when I would come back to I.C. to visit.

God Bless and Godspeed to a great guy. Heaven got a great one! RIP man!

To a kind, caring, positive, conscientious man who could always make us laugh and smile. Rick, you have been a tremendous friend and associate who will be missed by me and a great many people.

My sympathy and condolences to Rick's family and significant others.

What a tremendous loss for us here. But what an incredible gain for Heaven.

My "little" Ricky, my buddy, a man you could count on being there whenever you needed him, although I had to wait on him to get there sometimes, he would always show up. I will never forget the day I met Rick and we became instant friends he was family to us Judges. We pulled all nighters at his moms house studying to cram for another test at the U of I and rolled through some great athletic competitions and rolled home from some great parties!! Rick was the best friend a man could ask for and his laugh would make you smile. His love for his family and friends was always true. Now that your in Gods hands and shining that smile on the angels of heaven, I know your laughing down on all of us knowing that now, you are the one waiting for us.

I had the pleasure of working with Rick for eight years at Hawkeye Foodservice Distributution. We became fast friends as we shared a love for Hawkeye sports (especially wrestling), the Chicago Cubs and Bears, and the love of our families. You always knew when Rick was in the room because he had an infectious laugh that carried throughout the building--we will so miss that laugh! Rick loved fiercly and that was evident in the way he beamed when he talked about his girlfriend Patty as well as his daughters Kelsey and Kayla as they were the light of his lives. He recently became a grandfather and was so looking forward to that day. I will cherish the many memories that I have shared with Rick over the years especially how excited he was for me when he found out I was going to have my son less than five years ago.

TO THE FAMILY OF A MAN WHO WILL BE MISSED BY MANY, AND LOVED BY ALL WHO KNEW HIM. WHAT A WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL MAN HE WAS. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AS YOU HONOR THE LIFE OF A TRULY GREAT ;MAN.. GOD BLESS HIM. I AM PROUD TO HAVE KNOWN RICK AND CALLED HIM 'MY FRIEND'

Griff you will be missed by many. My heart goes out to the Family and your all in my prayer's. Griff you will be remembered as one of the best Ump's in the Coralville Softball League. God Bless You All.

I worked and sat by Rick for over 6 years. He always had a smile on his face. He thought the world of his two daughters and Patty. He talked about them all the time. He also talked about Marcia, she was the mother of his children. He was so excited to become a grandpa. I am so happy he was able to see and spend time wth his granddaughter. He was a true family man!

He often would give advice to me about my two daughters, often telling me to wait until they are both teenagers!

I will always remember Rick, his smile and his laugh. He was a big teddy bear, and had a big heart! He will be missed by many. I will miss him and will think about him often. Rest in peace friend...