Rick was born on September 14, 1951 in Oakland, California to his parents Elzie & Alma Combs. Rick had an older brother, Ed & a younger brother, Larry. Their father was in the Navy so they moved around a lot as children. They lived in Illinois, New Orleans & the Philippines before settling in La Mirada, California during Rick’s Middle School years.
Rick was a very athletic child & started playing football at an early age, following in his Uncle Paul’s footsteps, who played for Notre Dame. He played all throughout elementary/high school & into College, at Sacramento State. Football, & sports in general, were a very big part of his life.
Rick met Joanne in December 1975 & they married just 10 short months later, in October 1976. They went on to have 2 children, Ryan & Abbey. Growing up, Rick coached Ryan's baseball teams & Abbey's soccer teams for many years. He loved being involved with his childrens sports.
Rick gained 2 more children over the years; Brandi, Ryan’s wife (2012) & Shaun, Abbey’s husband (2018). But it was when he became a Grandpa that he really fell in love. Rick was a Grandpa to 3 beautiful babies…Brandon, Brantley & Paislee.
Rick was known for always being goofy & would rarely have a normal smile in a photo because he was usually making a funny face. He was a kid at heart & everyone loved him. He was a wonderful husband, a loving father & grandfather & a fun uncle. He had a great laugh & handsome smile. He is going to be missed greatly, but he is probably enjoying telling stories up in heaven & smiling down at us.
