Richard James Lodes, 58, of Lincoln, died Sept. 2, 2011 at 10:40 p.m. after a courageous battle with cancer. Born May 9, 1953 in St. Louis, MO, to Henry and Margaret Lodes.
He is survived by his wife Chris; daughter and son-in-law, Becky and Eric Neff, and son, Jim. Preceded in death by his parents.
Rich graduated from Central High School, St. Louis, MO, in 1971. In college Rich studied forestry and received his Bachelor of Science in Forestry from the University of Missouri at Columbia in 1975. He also studied range management and received his Master of Science from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Rich has been employed at the University of Nebraska at Lincoln since 1975 as a forester.
Rich was an avid hunter and outdoorsman, serving as a mentor for many young adults and cultivating a love of nature in all. He served several community organizations, including the Northeast Lincoln Chapter of the Kiwanis Club and Pheasant's Forever. His quirky personality and elaborate storytelling brought humor and laughter to many throughout his life. His passion for science and generosity toward education led him to donate his body to the Anatomical Board at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in order to further understanding about his disease.
Memorial services will be held at Lincoln Berean Church on Saturday Sept. 10, at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the Rich Lodes Memorial Scholarship Fund at Pinnacle Bank after Sept. 19. Condolences can be left at http://www.carepages.com/carepages/wishiwashunting.