"I gave the Phoenix Theatre the church building, but Lamar gave it the love. Historic preservation....Herron.....parties at Ken Keene's........so many intersections........a big hug from Scott keller"
In loving memory of
Rodney Lamar Richcreek
February 9, 1947 - May 30, 2018
It is with heavy hearts that we announce that Rodney Lamar Richcreek passed away on May 30th 2018 in Indianapolis, IN at age 71. He was born on February 9, 1947 in Marion Indiana to George Edgar and Virginia Ribelin Richcreek who he lovingly advocated and cared for until their deaths. He was a devoted husband, brother, son, teacher, and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years and best friend, Jean (Foxworthy) Richcreek, brothers Gary (Judy Skaggs) Richcreek and Ron (Debbie Blair) Richcreek. He was a most special uncle to nieces Dana Counts, Donelle (Jay) Chisolm, Darci (Greg) Caesar, Dori (Brad) Johnson, Sarah Richcreek, Claudia Burns, Hillary Burns, and Malory Mason and nephews Drew Richcreek, Aaron Richcreek, Benjamin Burns, and Gordon Mason as well as 14 great nieces and nephews. He was always ready to play when they were young and ready to listen when they grew up. He was blessed with many friends and colleagues who will miss him terribly.
He and Jean bought a house with their dear friend Mary Sinnock in Historic Meridian Park in 1978 with the idea of creating a communal family. They devoted countless hours to renovating their 109 year- old home in a way that respected its craftsman style history. Lamar and Jean fell in love with the neighbors and the neighborhood and have remained there for 40 years. They shared their home with others throughout their marriage; Friends and strangers found warmth and acceptance as part of their family. They hosted international students from across the world, becoming surrogate parents to them and later, grandparents to their children.
In addition to welcoming the world into their home they traveled to 39 countries. Lamar was often described as a quiet and gentle man but he had a strong love of adventure. He and Jean would often go to countries without reservations or a daily plan. Whether climbing Mayan ruins in Guatemala or driving through France the goal was always to truly experience the local culture - even it meant sleeping in shacks, forgoing hot water and electricity and (often) getting lost. Every mishap was just another adventure. Lamar also enjoyed scuba diving, yoga, biking and gardening. He was passionate about the arts; In addition to the visual arts he loved all types of music - from classical to techno and theatre - the more edgy the better.
Lamar served his country in the Army stationed in Korea. He was "Radar" to his Colonel and the entire MASH unit.
Lamar earned a BS in Business Administration from Ball State University in 1969. His first career was as a banker at People's Bank and Trust for 21 years. His last position there was VP Commercial Lending. For his second career he followed his life-long passion for photography and in his 50's returned to school for a Masters in Fine Arts from Vermont College of Fine Arts. He was a fine art photographer and an adjunct professor of photography at Herron School of Art and Design on the IUPUI campus for 20 years. His students described him as "A passionate and tireless teacher who inspired the best work from his students. More importantly he was a good soul with a kind heart and charming personality that kept his students spellbound", "truly an amazing soul - best teacher I ever had."
Lamar lived his life modeling his values for lifelong learning, an appreciation for people of all types and cultures, the power of the arts and the importance of integrity and respect for all. A celebration of his life will be held later in the summer. Condolences and memories may be left at CrownHill.org/obituaries. Memorial tributes may be made to the American Pianist Association, the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Ensemble Music Society or Planned Parenthood of Indiana and Kentucky.
Tributes
"I am so sorry for your loss Jean. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. "
"For awhile there, I was worried about you, Jean. And then you introduced me to your new fella, Lamar. And right then, I knew I needn't worry about you anymore. It breaks my heart to learn of your loss. When you're up for it, give me a call. Teri Thompson Crane 3178934253"
"Jean. I am so sad. It has been so long since I flew the nest. My best man at our wedding. And remembering his first dark room in the basement and listening to Ry Cooper. ?Catfish? He will always be in my memories as he has been since I last saw him too long ago."
"My heart aches for you Jean. You are in my thoughts and prayers."
"Jean, I am so sorry to hear of your husband's passing. I never met him but from what I have read and heard he was an outstanding man and citizen. You and your family will be in my prayers. "
"Thinking of you Jean. What a remarkable man your husband was! May you be surrounded by peace and love in the days ahead. Sandy Dean Sandy Dean"
"I was lucky enough to know Lamar as a supporter and board member of the Phoenix Theatre in the early days and always think of him when I pass the house on Pennsylvania. I remember his warmth and humor most. Much love to all. Cherish the memories."
"Dear Jean - My heart goes out to you for the loss of your incredible partner in life. We never have our loved ones long enough. Sincerely, Robin"
"What sad news that Lamar has died and we no longer have the opportunity and privilege to know him in this life. I can well imagine the treasure of memories he's left you, Jean, as each of us has our much smaller trove just from connecting with him in our individual ways. When I think of the two of you together, I think of your partnership in life and adventure; significant and exemplary in partnership, and large in adventure, everyday and broader in scope. The Lamar I remember is a man who was authentic, sensitive, and caring, as well as attuned to his internal creative soul. I'm grateful for the brief, wonderful time I lived in your home with you, Jean, Lamar, and Mary. One memory that to me exemplifies Lamar's generous spirit is of him joining me as an in-pool Special Olympics volunteer, swimming along side the athletes. That, too, was Lamar in my every memory of him; swimming beside each of us, encouraging and supportive of our efforts as we forged ahead, quiet and deep as our surrounding waters. You will be in my thoughts, Jean, in the weeks and months of adjustment ahead. Sending you love."
"We old time Phoenix Theatre folk have wonderful memories of Lamar and highly appreciate his support during our growing years. Our love goes out to Jean and the extended family. "
"Jean is my mom's cousin. Two summers ago, my parents were supposed to attend a play in Indy with Jean and Lamar, but my dad didn't feel well, so I went in his place. We met up with them at their home, and were going to take their car to dinner and the play. As we walked toward the car - parked at the curb in front of their home - Lamar walked ahead first and opened Jean's car door for her. I rarely see men do this anymore, so I was surprised. But, then...he opened my mom's car door for her...and he opened MY car door for me! My jaw was on the floor! What a true gentleman. The entire scenario was repeated when we arrived at, and departed, the restaurant for dinner. I was completely blown away, and shared this story on Facebook the next day. Heaven just received a dose of chivalry. "
"Jean, I am so sorry for your loss. I remember meeting Lamar at one of our family reunions and was so impressed with his gentle smile and kindness as he carefully listened to many conversations around him! The love you shared and your fabulous journey together will be a comfort and strength as you live on those memories. Love, Jane Earle Richardson"
"Dear Jean, my heart goes out to you at this difficult time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Cynthia"
"Dear Jean, Lamar was my best friend for fifty-two years. Always supportive ! This is heartbreaking and most difficult to comprehend. The fun times at your home make great memories. Tom Murphy "
"Dear Jean - We are so sorry to hear of Lamar?s passing. He was certainly a gentleman, with a strong devotion to his family, and a variety of interests. Our prayers are with you. Love, Bev and Paul Radloff"
"Dear Jean, I was so sorry to read of Lamar's passing. my thoughts and prayers go out to you. I well remember him as a kind, gentle man and loved by everyone. love, Aunt Pat"
"Dear Jean... I am so sorry for your loss. There are no words that can keep away the heartbreak, but please know that you are loved. May God bless you and keep you... Charlotte Tabereaux"
"Lamar was a mentor who inspired me with his strong work ethic, humor and care for others to be a community banker. Jay Brill "
"Jean - I am so sorry you lost this beautiful soul in your everyday life. I have such fond memories of his smile and his laugh. What a lovely life the two of you created and how amazing that you were able to share it with so many people. He was so remarkable and the two of you were amazing. Wishing you comfort in remembering how special your life together was. Big hugs, Billi"
"Dear Jean, It was with great sadness that I read of your loss this morning. You and I shared many years on the board of IRN (Connect2Help) and I learned of the devotion you and Lamar shared. My thoughts are with you at this sad time. Lynn Chreist"
"We were saddened to read of Lamar's passing. Jean, we are thinking about you and your family. Don and Jen Knebel"
"I was so sorry to hear of Lamar?s passing. I think of you often Jean and you will be in my prayers. God bless, Ellen St John"
"Jean, My thoughts, prayers and heartfelt sympathy are with you. Dianne Chinnes"
"So sorry for your loss, the Bible reminds us at Rev. 21:4 ?And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.? "
"A wonderful guy from a wonderful family. A great classmate and neighbor and childhood friend. Judy and Joe Mann"