Captain II
Deceased:
September 1, 2014
Appointed:
11/04/1973
Pensioned: Disability – 10/11/2007 – FS 69-B
Details on the memorial service
Donations:
IN LIEU OF FLOWERS, PLEASE SEND DONATIONS TO:
Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund
815 Colorado Blvd, 4th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90041
Additional Information:
Summer Matthes (daughter) is the spokesperson for the family and can be reached at the family home. She asks for photos to be used at the services. The photos can be e-mailed.
smokey2706 says
I had the privilege of working with Rick at FS 27. He was our Apparatus Operator while several of us were studying for A.O..Rick was a great mentor who prepared us to become successful as young Apparatus Operators. Rick served our County during the Viet Nam war as a machine gunner on board the Huey Cobra helicopters. We all enjoyed his war time stories and photos of his experiences. Rick was a tremendous asset to our Department and will be sorely missed. Rest in peace my friend.
Larry Shipp says
Rick was a great friend and he’ll be missed by all.We spent many hours watching his high school football movies until I said enough already lol we had great times,hanging out with the kids in the pool,telling lots of stories.Rick would always try and get me to ride one of his crazy hopped up motorcycles,with that famous smile.Good bye my Brother.
Kari Ross-Holsman says
My dear friend. The father of my three beautiful God children. The husband of my best friend, my soul sister. Meeting on the hood of Jo’s T-Bird. You and Bill Gomer driving your ’57 T-Bird. We will always be ‘lovers’. A brave, patriotic and courageous man. Party with your friends, family and loved ones and save a place for me! Being in paradise with God, pain will never touch you again! Rest in peace Rick. You are so loved and will be missed by so many.
Summer Matthes says
I had no idea this was up. After trying to contact Harry Gradi and learning that he was back in the hospital I found myself looking for information on my father. Thank you for your kind words. He also made me watch his football videos. I miss my father terribly and I wish he was here. Much love to the LAFD.