"I was Richard's grandaughter and was only told of his passing in a Christmas card from Dee a few days ago. I am deeply saddened by his loss and wish I knew him more. Love to all, Melissa xo"
In loving memory of
Richard "Dick" Christie
October 20, 2011
Richard James Christie was born on July 19, 1926 in Shenandoah, Iowa, the son of Clarence Elmer and Bertha Thelma (Clayton) Christie. Dick entered into eternal rest on October 20, 2011 in Omaha, Nebraska.
Dick was raised in the community of Shenandoah. He graduated from Shenandoah High School with the Class of 1944. Following high school he enlisted in the United States Navy and served his country with pride. He was honorably discharge in 1946. He attended college at Omaha University and graduated in 1951 with a bachelors degree. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1951. He later went on to complete his Masters Degree.
On December 27, 1968 he was united in marriage to Deloris Laschansky in St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Millard, Nebraska. The couple made their home in Omaha and Council Bluffs before returning to Shenandoah. The couple was blessed with 42 years of marriage.
During his working years Dick worked for Bellevue High School where he coached football and basketball. Dick was best known for his career at Omaha Technical High School. He served as the head football coach from 1958-1970, with an impressive record of 79-39-3. He also served as the head track coach from 1955-1958. He was responsible for implementing the "Dutch White Relays", which through the 1960's were one of the top track meets in Nebraska. He was also Tech High's first golf coach and also coached swimming. Dick was made Athletic Director in 1971. During his tenure he was responsible for developing the girls athletic program. The number of young men and women who developed from his leadership can't be measured. He was inducted to the Tech High Hall of Fame in 2001. He also served Tech High as an Assistant Principal.
Dick was a member of the American Legion and the Elks Club in Shenandoah. He enjoyed golfing, woodworking, oil painting, and tending to his flowers. He was a loving husband and a dear friend to many people.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Ardythe Boehner and husband Bill, son Richard and daughter Markalynn. Those left to honor his memory include his wife Deloris, brother Keith Christie and wife Eloise, nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends.
Tributes
"I just read the article about Coach in Tuesdays Omaha World Herald. It brought back memories of when I played softball at Bellevue and he was my coach. He was one of my "HERO'S" in life and I thought about him often. I'm sorry I didn't keep in better touch with him. But I'm thankful for the e-mails we exchanged a couple of years ago. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time."
"My memories of Dick Christie are related to operating the concession stands for Tech High football games in the late 70's. My family usually worked the concessions and also provided the popcorn from our ice cream store. When we would show up at the stadium, I knew we were in the right place when I could smell the sweet aroma from Mr. Christie's pipe. The aroma always put me in a "it is time for football" mentality. I still look for Mr. Christie whenever I smell someone's pipe smoke. We will miss you Dick. Thank you for everything you did for many people at Tech High School. Chris Wilcox"
"My sympathy and condolences are with u!! I was a student at Technical High when he was a Coach, and I remember his smile when we walked down the hallway of the school and the coaching with the school spirit."
"Dee and Family, I am so greatful to have met and played for "Coach Christie". He took many of us from various backgrounds, skills, and abilities,and made us into young men and women ready to face a life God had given us. He truly inspired all that he came in contact with not only in school but throughout his life. He was a true friend to all even though we may have not seen him over long periods of time. whenever you called or visited, he expressed a great interest in you and your family. He touched so many and will be missed greatly by all. Thank You for your many years of devoation and love for him and allowing us to be part of your extended family. He help me to relize all I could be and to achieve those things, and set new goals for myself. For that I'm am truly thankful. He helped our family when things got tough after our father passed away. My mother, brother Ken, and myself sincerely appericated his thoughfulness and support. We will miss his presence but remember him always. In God's love find comfort in this time of sorrow, and rejoice that God welcomes "Coach" home to help watch over you and yours till we all meet again. Sincerely, Lynn Harris Class of '62"
"I have many fond memories of Dick from our years together coaching at Omaha Tech. I was privileged to have worked with him and continue to regard him as my first mentor as I began my career in education. Good men like Dick don't come around very often. My sincerest condolences to Dick's family,"
"To the family of Mr. Christie, I would like to offer my sincere condolences. Mr. Christie was my track coach at Tech for 4 years. I know he was a big influence in a lot of youngs men's lives. May he rest in peace. James Fowler"
"Keith and Eloise - and Dick's family - I am very sorry to hear of Dick's passing. I remember him from high school as a tall, handsome upper classman. Keith, I'm so sorry you lost your brother, and send my sympathy and prayers to you and all the family, as I know he will be sadly missed. God bless all of you."
"Condolences to your family at this time of sorrow. May God be with you."