Richard Eugene Capra

I only had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Capra once when he came to visit Olivia in London. But from reading all of these beautiful stories, I feel like I know him, and that’s because Olivia is all of those beautiful things too - able to befriend strangers around the world and make them feel like family, steadfast in her loyalty and love for her family, hardworking and humble… it’s impossible not to see his impact on her life and everyone around him. Sending my love to the entire Capra family. May his memory be a blessing and may we all live our lives a little more like he did.

Attended the full house and lovely service for Richard. It was everything representative of Richard….family, friends, community, laughs, good times.
Richard was my colleague for 17 years. We would drop into each other’s offices , get business done and share some laughs. It was always easy to talk to him He was such an entrepreneurial person because he always believed we should try and we should do it. Nothing was impossible….and it wasn’t impossible if Richard was involved.
I will miss being able to talk to him and brainstorm. He was a brilliant and kind person to all and he will be so missed.

There’s an old joke that I’m sure I told Rick at least once, and it asks the question, “What do you call a guy who likes to hang out with musicians?”

The punchline? “... a drummer.”

Rick did NOT fit that stereotype! He was a musician in the truest sense of the word. Every time I had the privilege of playing with him on the MCC worship team, I would gain a deeper appreciation for the sensitivity he brought to his playing. Each song had a distinctive feel -- not just a specific beat or tempo, but a crafted musicality that revealed his heart for the meaning and message of the song.

In the early 2000s, Rick and I were in a men’s group together, and he brought a similar level of intentionality to the spiritual and relational work we did there. One year, we all decided (it might have even been Rick’s idea, not sure) to do something special for our wives around Valentine’s day. We transformed the church library loft into a cozy café for an evening of fine dining, music and dancing, complete with dramatic elements like a grand entrance under an arch of drawn sabers. Ever the romantic, Rick embraced this project with unmatched fervor, and his whole-hearted love for Marlene was on full throttle.

Rock on, Rick. Looking forward to being back in the band with you someday on the other side.

Rick had a calm but enthusiastic and positive vibe about him. He always had a smile on his face, a kind word to share and a reason to laugh. He made me feel comfortable in his home when I’d stay for an impromptu dinner as a teenager and had encouraging words during our brief and sporadic catch-ups over the years since then. I was even lucky enough to visit him at his office at UCSF once - it was really special because I could tell that he was proud of his work and legacy there and so was his daughter Olivia. I loved being able to catch moments of their closeness. It was beautiful to see in their relationship.
When I think of Rick I think of him relaxing in a chair with Marlene curled up in his lap, comfortable and happy in his home with the love of his life and his family. Thank you for the light you shined on all who knew you Rick. You are missed.

I met Richard twelve years ago when I started working at UCSF. From the very beginning, there was something about him that made you feel comfortable — he was genuine, kind, and incredibly down to earth. A few years later, I had the privilege of working directly with him for four years, and during that time he became so much more than my boss. He became my confidant, my mentor, and my friend.

Richard never felt like a manager. He led with warmth, encouragement, and positivity, and he had a way of making everyone around him feel valued and capable. I truly don’t have a single bad memory of him. He always knew exactly what to say, and his advice has stayed with me.

I started working for Richard the same year I got married, and he gave me some of the most thoughtful advice I’ve ever received about marriage, compromise, and life. He even celebrated my wedding with the team — a small gesture that meant the world to me and perfectly reflected the kind of person he was. Richard celebrated people. He showed up for their milestones, their joys, and their achievements.

He always had my back. Whether I had an idea, a concern, or a difficult situation, I knew I was supported. He lifted me up and made me believe I could do anything. Leaving that job was incredibly hard, because working with Richard brought me so much happiness and growth.

I grew up without a father, and in many ways, Richard felt like my “work dad.” He spoke about his children with so much love that it was impossible not to know what an amazing father he was. While losing a father is one of life’s deepest heartbreaks, I hope his children and Marlene can find comfort in knowing how profoundly Richard touched so many lives. His kindness, leadership, and love live on through everyone he impacted.

Thank you, Richard, for always being there for me. I still carry your words with me, and I always will. You will forever hold a place in my heart.

I was a nervous 20-year-old who drove from LA to SF to meet my boyfriend’s parents when I met Rick back in 2009.

He was well into his career at UCSF, commuting back and forth across the Golden Gate Bridge, braving the traffic in both directions each day. 

I’d heard about him from his lanky, side-burned firstborn - my 22-year-old boyfriend and eventual husband - yet he’s one of those people you only truly get to know by being in his presence. His curiosity, his quick and original humor, his warmth. He put my nerves at ease over the coming days and years, continuing to do so through his final days some 16.5 years later.

Time passed and I found things about him we shared - we had similar family trees including older Dads as kids; our high schools, while in different cities, were named Woodrow Wilson H.S.; we were the youngest in our families, and perhaps shared a particular kind of drive to see just how far we could go in our lives with travels, achievements, and new friends.

I found that he was a true San Franciscan, with as many stories as the city has streets. No matter how far he would travel, he would return home with a sense of contentment and affection for his city. 

I feel entirely and deeply grateful for the time I got to spend with him, and for all he showed me about life along the way, up until the very end. And I'm grateful for everything he imparted to my husband to make him the wonderful man that he is. While I will always miss my father-in-law, and my husband will always long for his Dad, I take comfort in knowing I can visit him by simply finding the joyful corners of his city. 

Rick had a calm, fun-spirited way of showing how deeply he loved his kids—by being part of their world. Whether he was dancing and taking tequila shots at Olivia’s 30th (proof below), chiming in with commentary during Say Yes to the Dress, sneaking treats with us when Marlene wasn’t looking, or jumping into an escape room, he showed up with joy and intention. He will be deeply missed here, but find comfort knowing heaven cheered the moment he arrived.

I've worked with some great leaders and Richard is at the top of that list. Richard created a strong footprint for what it means to serve a team. He was more than a manager to the Ortho community and his impact remains. We was a mentor, pillar of integrity, and a source of inspiration. He led with kindness and understanding. We discussed family often which is how we discovered we both love music and played instruments. I will miss catching up and the incredible cycling stories!

I was in a small-group with Rick at Marin Covenant Church for about 10 years. During that time, I got to know Rick well as he shared what was going on in his life with work, Marlene and his children. It was clearly evident that he was tender-hearted and warm of character, as he expressed his hopes for what God was doing with all of the people he loved. It was also fun to hear his stories of his childhood, growing up in a blue-collar neighborhood, playing high school football, and making all sorts of friends with people from different ethnic backgrounds. As he transitioned to retirement, he enthusiastically embraced weightlifting and cycling, both centered around connection with people - his morning weightlifting crew and our men's cycling group. Our epic, week-long cycling trips to Spain (2018) and Croatia (2024) allowed us to test our physical abilities, enjoy parts of the world we had never seen, and allowed us to connect more deeply. My heart aches - you are deeply loved, my brother.

On the celebration night of my 40th birthday, the celebration didn’t really feel like it was about me—it felt like it was about Olivia's star guests "her parents". On a beautiful rooftop in Brooklyn, with the city stretched out around us and glasses of the most delicious pét-nat in hand, this man's spirit was the true soul of the party. There was so much laughter, warmth, and easy joy in the air that it felt as if he had quietly taken a seat among us, adding his own light to the evening, stealing all our friend's hearts.

I think it was in 2008 or thereabouts, Marin Covenant Church was hosting a Thanksgiving dinner at church, I craved events like this because it helped instill some values in my then toddler.
I was not sure who would be there because we were fairly new to the church; but on arrival, my daughter and I met the team; Richard & Marlene were part of the team.
Richard introduced himself & Marlene to us began to explain what was going on to my toddler; he locked in with her, and Ceana followed him walking her little body behind or beside him, he had earned her trust.
Richard did not ask us where we were from, he did not ask me about “my story”, he just did not care and that told me the kind of heart he had which was wholesome to me.
After that event, he would see us in church and welcome us whole heartedly.
To read about Richard’s transition is truly overwhelming but I want to thank God for his life. He loved and lived for King Jesus. He exemplified the love of our Father in Matthew 25:40, … truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me (NIV).
Rest well, Richard.

Richard was a unique gem. His way of seeing everyone and ensuring everyone felt seen, of staying in the present while solving problems of the past, and of bringing empathy and strength into the workplace, all highly valued attributes of a leader, will greatly be missed. He was the glue to the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery's success, bringing his authentic moral self to the office, and it showed us all that we could do the same and be better for it. His positive influence helped bring my best self to all areas of my life, even though at times he had to push me. I am a better person because of his caring and guidance.

What I admire most about Richard was his ability to reinvent himself at life's every turn, his continuous internal self-reflection, and evident external growth. When I asked him about this, he attributed it to Marlene and his kids. From our staff meeting trivia to our raucous staff engagement events, Richard leaves those of us who were fortunate enough to have worked with him some amazing memories. He brought music, food, and joy together in the best way. What I miss most is hearing his laughter.

I was truly fortunate to work with Richard over the past 20 years at UCSF. Under his leadership, the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery experienced tremendous growth and success. Even more meaningful, however, was the way he treated every member of the staff and faculty. He was always personal, attentive, and genuinely caring. I fondly remember the basketball games we shared and the many department gatherings that brought us together. Richard consistently mentored and guided us, helping each of us become better professionals and people. He will be deeply missed, but his impact will never be forgotten. I am also grateful to Marlene and the entire Capra family for sharing Richard with us and allowing him to be such an important part of our lives.

I didn’t know Richard well but we overlapped at Ortho for nearly a decade and I always enjoyed my time spent with him. He was such a strong example of how to be a leader. He always treated everyone with respect and fostered an office culture where everyone and every voice mattered. His kindness was contagious and I will miss seeing him at the Orthopaedic Institute. My heart goes out to his family- you had a good one!

While only knowing Richard for the past four years through the AOC, we had the opportunity to partner together numerous times, and he graciously took me under his wing. He was always so kind with me, encouraging me in a way, I've never had a mentor as personable or genuine as Richard. His ability to lift others up around him, but to personally be one of those who was lifted up has made a lasting impression on me.
May you find peace, Richard. You will always hold a place in my heart.
Thank you for your friendship. Take care my friend.
Alek

I'm so sad to hear of Rick's passing. I knew him professionally through the AOC, and like others have mentioned, he was always willing to lend an ear, send a document, answer a question. I learned so much from him over the past 13 years or so. I know his legacy will live on in the memories he left with so many.

Ricky Ricardo had the best sense of humor - although God - fearing, wonderful husband, father and little bro to Raye, I will always remember his sense of humor. Like the time he brought Grammie's cremated ashes to her favorite spot for scattering in Chinese food cartons - Chinese food being Grammie's favorite. Please keep the family in your prayers and say a little extra prayer for my Aunt Raye - she lost her older sister and within 6 months her precious brother Rick.

I knew Ricky (yes Ricky) best as a child. Afterall, he was my uncle and only two years older than me. He was more like a cousin and better yet more like my partner in crime. We had so many adventures together. I would like to share some of my favorite memories. Ricky used to love to come to our house in Sacramento so he could mow the lawn, of all things. He is the one who taught me what a lawn island was, and boy were there a ton of them when he got done. We nicknamed the swings the Flashlights. Thought we were so smart saying "let's go get the flashlights" thinking Debbie and Raye would never guess what we were talking about. It was always a competition to see who could get to the swings first. Then there was the time us four kids (Gaye was the mature one and not involved in many of the shenanigans) were throwing things in Grammies living room and we broke a very expensive green glass wine decanter. The four of us got into so much trouble but we knew how to make a punishment fun. Deb and Raye got banished to the downstairs bedroom and Ricky and I were in the upstairs bedroom. We passed notes between the floors using string and clothespins and had so much fun we didn't even realize how much chaos we caused. Then there was the time Ricky, and I were riding his little motorcycle in San Francisco....my beautiful tan cashmere jacket was over the exhaust and got a burn hole in it. We got in trouble for that but not for being helmetless. Hmmm. Who even wore helmets back in the 60s? One of the best memories was when Ricky got a chemistry set as a gift. He and I went down into the basement in San Francisco and conducted the experiment of all experiments. (At least to us) He was the scientist, and I was the scribe. He accurately measured each ingredient, and I documented every so carefully. At the end of the experiment, the instructions asked for a conclusion, so we sniffed the concoction. We were so proud of ourselves. It smelled just like a Band-Aid! If only I could wrap all of us that are heartbroken with a gigantic healing Band-Aid now. Lyndie Faeth

I don't want to be eloquent or wax poetic about a great man, a brother in Christ and a life well lived. I just want to cry.

I feel blessed with a gift to have spent 15+ years working closely with Richard at UCSF. We shared ideas, created plans, tackled challenges, endeavored to help our professional community, worked hard, talked about our families, and became great friends. On reflection, it is clear to me that I have never met a more positive, undaunted, and optimistic person. Richard loved his family, respected all, and savored life. What an example. What a person. What a friend. Thank you Richard, and thank you Capra family for sharing his life. A gift.

Tad Vail

I was blessed to know the Capra family throughout my adolescence from hanging out with Greg after church, to being supervised by Olivia during Home Fellowship group (thank you for putting up with all my energy/mischief!), to listening to Halfway to Nowhere and thinking, wow Greg‘s older brother Andrew is so cool - he has his own band and he’s such a great musician! But what stands out the most, especially in this heartbreaking moment, is watching Rick - Greg's cool, calm, collected Dad - play the drums in Marin Covenant Church’s worship band, which secured my desire and inspiration to be a drummer.

Another fellow drummer once mentioned, “fills get the thrills, but pocket pays the bills”; in other words, the fancy drum solos may fascinate and draw fleeting attention, but what really matters the most - what legacy is built on - is providing a solid groove and beat that the rest of the band relies on to deliver music. Rick always provided that solid groove and beat (his fills were fantastic, too). And he smiled while playing the drums - I loved that! Rick was effective, impactful, and enamored with what he did (drums, fatherhood, and what I later learned of...a kickass leader at UCSF) - a true inspiration. Reflecting on how incredible, fun, talented, and thoughtful the Capra kids are, I can see Rick and Marlene’s solid “pocket” foundation of love, compassion, zest for life, and levity. May Rick’s memory be a blessing and a reminder to us all to focus on what matters most - faith, family, friends, and fun.

January 1, 2026
I only came to know Richard after becoming involved with AOC, and what a privilege that proved to be. As a UCSF Orthopaedics alumnus, I know the department well and deeply appreciate the role Richard played in sustaining and advancing its remarkable legacy of excellence.
Our conversations were always genuinely enriching-filled with intellectual insight, tempered by levity, and grounded in a deep compassion for people and for the academic mission. I was intensely saddened to learn of his passing, yet I am profoundly grateful for having been blessed to know him and to have shared time, ideas, and moments together.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and to the many communities he touched. I will raise a libation in his honor, share his story with my partner, and make a new friend in his honor.

I didn't know Richard really-I meet him a few times at the AOC meetings. But the love expressed in all the pictures and the prose here is truly inspiring. Two things were particularly touching to me:
1. His obituary is what I think we all aspire to-a collection of memories and experiences that encapsulate the emotions of our life-especially love. Those are never captured in a CV or a resume and nobody wants them as our legacy in a eulogy or obituary.
2. The quote "Iron sharpens iron"-reading that and hearing Carson Beck the QB for Miami say that last night in his post game interview-that is the mystical energy of the universe. Energy/love that is woven through our life if we look for it. And that wonder is beautiful in itself-one of the 4 legs for for thriving that Ariana Huffington wrote about. I have no doubt Richard saw that wonder and thrived in his life from all the love in the pictures and memories and he will be missed. Agape.

One of the greatest blessings of my life was the relationship I had with Richard Capra, a giant in our field, Chief Administrative Officer Emeritus of UCSF Orthopaedics, a mentor to so many, and one of the most generous souls I have ever known. Richard served for 12 years as President of the Academic Orthopaedic Consortium (my company) and guided us toward scaled connection, open sharing of ideas, and a culture where leaders learned from one another rather than struggle alone. He helped shape who we are , how we gather, how we learn, and how we look out for each other.
Richard and Marlene were not just members of the AOC, they were family. Their presence added warmth, laughter, humanity, and heart to everything we did. If you ever sat beside Richard, you know the feeling: the calm presence, the quiet genius, the warm smile that softened stresses you carried in with you. I used to joke that no one on earth could lower my blood pressure like Richard! When I felt worried or overwhelmed, he was my first call, not only because he had answers, but because he had a way of helping me find clarity and peace.
Nearly 15 years ago, when the AOC was little more than a belief, a hope, that if we gathered administrative leaders and encouraged them to openly share what worked and what didn’t, we could elevate departments across the country, Richard stepped forward as one of the first to say “yes.” From the very beginning it was clear he operated at another level: visionary, humble, practical, brilliant, always asking how he could help someone else. He didn’t just present at meetings, he mentored year-round, took calls, answered questions, guided new leaders, and made time for anyone who needed him.
One story captures him perfectly.
At our Business & Leadership Symposium in 2018 , packed room, opening session underway, the entire AV system suddenly crashed with no technical support in sight. A moment that could have spiraled into panic and embarrassment. Richard leaned over gently and said, “Let’s break everyone into four groups with rotating discussions while AV gets sorted out.” We did exactly that. It saved the conference, and that moment of calm brilliance became the inspiration for the breakout rotations that are now the highest-rated element of our symposium. That was Richard. Clear mind, steady hand, solution-oriented leadership.
He also helped architect the AOC Mentorship Matchmaking Platform, believing deeply that mentorship should scale, that wisdom should not be trapped in silos or years of experience, but shared freely across institutions. Because of him, we now have a structure where members can seek guidance or serve as mentors in honor of the kind of leadership he embodied daily.
Professionally, his impact is immense. He spent 28 years at UCSF, rising from radiology tech to Chief Administrative Officer of Orthopaedics, earning the UC Chancellor’s Award, and helping build a powerhouse program admired nationally. His partnership with Tad Vail, MD was legendary, together they elevated UCSF in clinical care, research, education, and leadership. Just as Ron Faulbaum and Richard Gelberman, MD were foundational pillars of Washington University Orthopaedics, so too were Richard Capra and Tad Vail at UCSF. Their work changed the field, and all of us who learned from it.
And beyond accomplishments, what I treasure most is his love.
Love for Marlene.
Love for his children Andrew , Olivia, and Gregory.
Love for gathering, laughing, learning, traveling, uplifting others.
Love for people and for making them feel seen, heard, and encouraged.
Richard lived with love at the center of his life. If that is the measure of a life well lived, then Richard was among the most successful men I have ever known!!!
Thank you, Richard, for your friendship, your mentorship, your wisdom, your patience, your laughter, and for lifting us far higher than we could have risen without you. Your legacy lives in our work, in our relationships, in our mentorship, and in the countless lives you touched. We will carry your light forward, always.
I love you Richard- thank you for EVERYTHING!
Mike Gagnon

Our parents were from a different time. They both were born in 1909 and 1915 respectively. Because of this, they always set an example to us of showing up for people when they need you. Our mother was especially known for her many kindnesses to friends, relatives and strangers. She wouldn’t think twice about driving ANYWHERE to help someone in need. I believe we all may have inherited her gene.

This example was never more relevant to me as when I was delivering one of my daughters in 1985. My husband was on a job in LA and couldn’t be reached. The baby was in trouble and so was I. My brother Rick was working was working at UCSF just up the hill from Children’s Hospital. The doctors told me my baby was no longer viable and had to be delivered. I called Rick hysterical and he came within 10 minutes. My brother held my hand and talked to me while I delivered my daughter. Afterwards, the nurse wrapped my baby and gave her to Rick to hold. I was unable to hold her due to the rigors I was experiencing.

I looked at him and with tears pouring down his face, he was talking to her; telling her she was loved. I realized at that moment, she wasn’t just my daughter; she was my brother’s niece, my mother’s granddaughter, my children’s sister, and so on. This loss touched our entire family.

I will of course, never forget that day and how my brother Rick helped me through the biggest tragedy of my life. He showed up when I needed him the most. Rick is my hero.

Rick has the biggest heart and would be disappointed in himself if he let anyone down EVER. In addition to his kindness, he will remain the sweetest man I’ve ever known. My little brother, my hero.

One of my favorite memories growing up with Rick was of Rick's dad, who drove a Chevy panel wagon. He would drive us up to the end of the road on Radio Hill to a cul-de-sac. From this point we could watch the Giants game through binoculars and listen to the game on the radio. It was great fun! Then when the game was over, Rick's dad would teach us to drive his panel wagon inthe cul-de-sac.
Also his dad would take us fishing of Mission Rock Pier.
I will miss you, my friend, and as long as I have known you, you will be forever on my mind when I remember
or see something that reminds me of growing up with you. Even though we did not always stay connected you were and will always be part of my life.

We did not know Rick very well, but wish we had. Our hearts grieve for his magnificant children and bride but we know his spirit will continue to live vibrantly within each of them. Rick, we look forward to reconnecting when we join you one day on the other side. In the meantime, we will dance with Marlene and never forget you.

This picture is one of the best embodiments of the Rick Capra I got to know, admire and love. A group of us was taking a break while cycling in Spain. While milling about and talking amongst ourselves, Rick saw this elderly gentleman sitting alone on a park bench. So of course Rick made a beeline for him, sat with him and struck up a conversation...a difficult one, I'm sure, given the language barrier. After a few minutes, Rick came back to us and told us about this 83-year-old's colorful past.

Rick, I'm going to miss your curiosity about others, your friendliness, the constant bantering. Thanks for teaching me the value of other people.

It’s been a true joy and a privilege to have known and spent time with Rick Capra over the course of the last 15 years.

Rick is my best friend Olivia’s dad. We first met at mine and Liv’s graduation ceremony in July 2011. Rick had the biggest smile and best energy - full of genuine excitement for his daughter achieving this milestone in her life, meeting all of her university friends and witnessing the life she had built in London. After just a few minutes of meeting Rick, I knew where Liv got her sense of humour from. He had that warm, exuberant and joyful energy that you just want to be around.

Fast forward to March 2021 - Rick had become more than ‘Liv’s dad’ to me. Rick and Marlene were like second parents to me when I lived in San Francisco between 2017 and 2021. They welcomed me with open arms into Capra family gatherings, from dinners to birthdays, Christmases to Thanksgivings. Rick always welcomed me with the biggest, warmest hugs and made me feel like part of the family. His stories and jokes were a central part of these occasions as was his infectious laugh, which thinking of it now, brings a huge smile to my face.

One of my favourite memories of Rick is from Liv’s 30th birthday. He wore his signature leather jacket - in fact, I believe every member of the Capra family wore a leather jacket that evening (they are just too cool!). The venue was in the Mission - a flower store by day and event space by night. Inspired by the venue, the girls wore flower crowns and we managed to convince Rick to tie a flower around a tiny piece of his hair, so he wasn’t missing out. This may have been after a couple of tequilas! It was such a fun night. Rick barely left the dancefloor. This was him - he showed up 110% at every occasion, with the biggest open heart and so much joy and energy. I admired this so much about him. And it’s one of my favourite traits in Liv too.

Thank you Rick for lighting up so many people’s lives with your radiant positivity, open heart and signature cocktail recipes. I will miss drinking Singapore slings and a good Zinfandel with you and the Capra fam - but promise to raise many glasses and tell many Rick stories with the Capras over the years to come.

Jenny x

5am Mornings

I’ve known Greg since I was eight years old and am now 31, which means I’ve also been lucky enough to have known Rick for most of my life. From early on, I admired him—not just as Greg’s dad, but as someone who quietly shaped the way I see discipline, effort, and joy.

During a sleepover at Greg’s house one night, Rick offered to take us to play basketball at the YMCA at 5:00 in the morning. This was something he did regularly with a group of local hoopers. At the time, it felt like a huge adventure—being invited into the adult world that exists before the sun comes up. I was nervous but excited. I had no idea that morning, and the many mornings that followed, would go on to influence a large part of my future and become one of the life lessons I hold most dear.

On the court, Rick had a solid mid-range jump shot and always guarded players bigger than his size. This is something I deeply admire about Rick, Greg, and the entire Capra family—they don’t back down from a challenge. They carry themselves with pride and they are a testament to what determination, grit, and heart can accomplish. No matter the challenge, you are glad to have the Capra’s on your side and Rick embodied that spirit completely.

As a teen, playing basketball with adults at the YMCA was my introduction to many things: ego, communication, standing up for yourself, challenging yourself, and the pride that comes from showing up early and putting in the work. Rick was a steady guide for it all.

Waking up before sunrise to workout made me feel capable in a new way, and that feeling stayed with me. For Rick, hard work never seemed like a burden—he talked about it and treated it as a joy. 5 am basketball became a regular occurrence for Greg, Rick, and I during my high school years and the early morning workouts followed me into adulthood. When I am feeling lost, stressed, or confused I find peace in an early morning workout and I often turn to it to set me back on track. Thank you Rick.

One day, I hope to have kids of my own, and I’ll be sure to wake them up at 5:00 a.m. to go to the gym—so they too can learn the value of work, fun, and adventure before the sun comes up. And if I’m lucky enough for that day to come, those lessons will be taught in Rick’s lineage.

Rick was also just extremely cool.

I don’t often feel invested in earning the approval of others—but I did with Rick. His stamp of approval felt good, and it meant something. Rick was funny, adventurous, suave, and effortlessly cool. He had stories and swagger. Rick is someone who inspires you to collect as many travel stories, crazy workouts, and hilarious jokes as you can so that when you catch up he might be impressed by them.

When Greg and I lived together in San Francisco, we started taking occasional trips to Aquatic Park to swim in the chilly bay waters. We wanted to face the cold and come out stronger on the other side—a continuation of the lessons we learned during those 5:00 a.m. mornings. When I told Rick about it, he said “I don’t know how you guys do that, you’re a man for that.” Coming from him, that stuck with me and made me want to get right back in the water.
Rick was cool in the truest sense—so cool that when he gave you a compliment, you carried it with you.

Rick had a rare trait—he was genuinely excited for you. He could celebrate your wins as if they were his own. When you accomplished something, he congratulated you with a sincerity that was unmistakable. He meant it, and you could feel it.

Rick also had an incredible ability to enjoy the good things in life. He worked hard and he played hard. He found real joy in a great meal, a new trip, and time spent with the people he loved. Rick lifted up those around him and raised the mood of any room he was in. He was present—if it was hard work, a family party, a great dessert, or telling a joke he leaned into it and did it with his whole heart.

I hope to live my life with the same contagious presence and fully invested attitude that Rick lived with. It’s a trait I see in Greg, and one of the many things that make Greg, Olivia, Andrew, and Marlene so special to be around.

Rick was a gentleman. He carried himself with pride and confidence and set an incredible example for everyone around him. He laid down a blueprint for a life well-lived and I am eternally grateful for the lessons and inspiration.

While I often crave more sleep, I think I’ll continue to wake up a little earlier now and then—just in case Rick is waiting for me.

Safe travels to the next dimension Rick and see you in the morning.

I met Rick and Marlene when I started dating their son Greg in 2021. I remember being so nervous to meet the parents (!), but my nerves quickly disappeared because they were both incredibly kind and welcoming. Over the years, I’ve been privileged to be included in many special Capra family moments, from Rick’s “graduation” celebration in Charleston to Christmas in San Francisco. At every family gathering, Rick was always sincerely curious about what was going on in my life and made me feel like I mattered.

After my own father passed away last year, the Capra family joined us for my first major holiday without him. One of the most meaningful things to me about that Thanksgiving was how my own grief did not deter Rick from talking with me about my dad. He listened as I reminisced about some of my favorite memories, and asked questions to learn more about him, as they never had the opportunity to meet in this life. His compassion and willingness to share in my grief meant so much, and that kindness is something that I will always carry with me.

I will always remember Rick as someone who found happiness through the deep love he had for his family and the genuine interest he took in the lives of others. He was such a bright light in this world, and his loss will be felt deeply by all. I feel incredibly lucky to have known him.

We have truly lost such a light in this world. No matter where or when I saw Rick, he always greeted me the same way: a huge smile, arms wide open, and an epic hug… even when I showed up offering him tequila.

Rick never failed to make me laugh. Our most recent laugh was just a few weeks ago, when my brother and I FaceTimed him, Marlene, and Olivia to invite them over to swim in my parents’ new spa. My little nephews were bouncing around in the background, and without missing a beat Rick said, “I’ll only come over after you’ve completely drained the pee and poop!” We all completely lost it. Even when he wasn’t feeling his best, Rick always found a way to make us crack up and smile.

But Rick wasn’t just a jokester, he had an incredibly big heart. A few years ago, when my dad was in the ICU at UCSF for a couple of weeks, Rick somehow managed to secure a stack of parking passes so we could park for free. More importantly, he constantly checked in, making sure we were okay and had everything we needed. That kindness and support meant more to our family than he probably ever knew.

Rick was truly one of a kind, I could go on and on with my memories of him. I am going to miss him so much. The world feels a little dimmer without him in it, but I’m so incredibly grateful to have known him and been considered a bonus Capra kid by him. ♥️