Richard "Rick" Allen Erdman

Richard “Rick” Erdman, 69, passed away on March 21, 2026. Born February 2, 1957, Rick was hard-working, honest, loyal and resilient - someone who lived life on his own terms and left an impression on all that knew him.

Rick grew up and lived in South Omaha until the age of 12, attending Marrs elementary school. He had fond memories of McDonalds on 24th St, the barber shop where we got our hair cut, and Pleskac Bakery and their 5 cent brownies. Though he lived in a rough area, he still found fun and enjoyment in a neighborhood full of life. In 1969, the family moved to Papillion, and life shifted from inner city to suburbia—a culture shock at first. Rick adjusted, made new friends, found new adventures, and graduated from Papillon HS. Always the adventurous child, he was drawn to what was unique and different.

A life-long laborer and sometimes cook, Rick worked hard, sometimes for low wages, but never relied on others for financial support. He was a self-made man who worked until retirement age, with a knack for getting by and making things happen. In the quiet, steady way he carried himself, Rick showed that dignity isn’t about recognition; it’s about showing up, doing the work, and staying true to your word.

Rick never married or had children, but he dearly loved his two nieces and supported his parents in their declining years. He was a good caregiver who provided comfort, and his steady presence meant more than he ever needed to say out loud.

Rick knew simplicity was freedom. He used no credit cards and paid cash. He carried a pocket watch. He had no cell phone, just a land line. He enjoyed old black and white movies that made a point, old cars that were easy to work on, and cooking. And in the most endearing ways, Rick was always his own person: when others ordered a burger, he was eating a fish sandwich; while most others drank Coke, he was sipping 7-up; when others picked chocolate or vanilla ice cream, he went for butter brickle.

Honest and trustworthy, Rick stood on his own and stood up against all adversaries and life’s challenges—and won. A devoted son, a good brother, a kind uncle, and a loyal friend. He will be missed by all and loved forever. His life reminds us, in a celebratory and uplifting way, that there is strength in quiet integrity and joy in being unapologetically yourself.

Rick was preceded in death by his father, Darrell Erdman.

He is survived by his mother, Charlotte Erdman; brother, Michael Erdman; and nieces, Rebecca and Laura Erdman.

Rick was a man of integrity, honesty, and someone you could always count on. He loved his family and will be missed by all and loved forever.

VISITATION Thursday 12pm with FUNERAL to follow at 1pm. INTERMENT at Cedardale Cemetery.

Memorials directed to the family.