Rico Rosas

Luis E. Rosas, lovingly known as “Rico,” passed away peacefully at home in Columbus, Ohio, on September 2, 2025, at the age of 72. Born in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, on July 18, 1953, to Erica González and Enrique Rosas, he grew up in Brooklyn, New York and carried the lively spirit of both places with him throughout his life.

Rico attended Baruch College before being recruited to the FBI, beginning a remarkable 37-year career in public service. He worked in Washington, D.C., for seven years before transferring back to New York City, where he met his future wife, Laurie and eventually retired in 2009. Known among his colleagues as a character with an unforgettable sense of humor, Rico’s warmth and generosity left lasting impressions. He was known for endless stories, his booming laugh, and his willingness to lend a hand to anyone who needed it.

Beyond his career, Rico’s passions were uniquely his own. A true sports aficionado, he was a lifelong New York Yankees fan - “born” one, as he would proudly say. He followed every detail of his teams, meticulously recording stats and projections and he could speak fluently on the history of any sport, college or professional. He also loved cartoons and comedy, especially the classics like Looney Tunes or the Three Stooges but in recent years, got a kick out of animated movies like Madagascar and particularly, the penguin named “Rico.” He always found joy and laughter in the simplest moments. His distinct laugh, part goofy “hy-uck hy-uck” and part high-pitched “heee heee,” could fill a room and bring tears of laughter to anyone around him.

Rico was also a history buff, endlessly fascinated by battles, wars, and mythology, and a near-unbeatable Jeopardy contender. He adored music, especially rock, though his taste spanned from disco to funk to Broadway musicals. He could talk to anyone about anything and often did, with an ease that made people feel welcome and seen.

Family was at the center of Rico’s life. He was a devoted husband to Laurie, supporting her and their family with love and steadiness. He shared countless adventures with his children, especially during their teenage years, when he happily escorted them and their friends to activities. With his grandson Ricky, he found new joy in passing on his love of sports and laughter.

Rico lived life with resilience and grit, surviving more health challenges than anyone thought possible - earning him the family joke of being a man with “nine lives.” His presence was a gift, and his family is grateful for every moment shared.

Rico is survived by his wife, Laurie Rosas; his daughters, Dina Rosas (Greg Kleehammer) and Kayla Rosas; his son, Louis Rosas (Ashley Rosas); and grandson, Ricky Rosas; and his loving cat, Rocky.

A viewing will be held on Friday, September 5, from 3:30-6:30 PM at Schoedinger Margarum Northeast, 1051 E Johnstown Rd, Gahanna, OH 43230. There will be no formal service, but family and friends are warmly invited to come and pay their respects.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the Yankees Universe Fund in his memory.