In Memory

Rick Rollins - Class Of 1971



 
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05/06/09 08:49 AM #1    

Marty Von Schaaf (1970)

What fun we used to have in St Elmo and going to Lookout Jr. High. Rick, Rick Chambers and I were the "Tampico Trumpets" so named by Ralph Miller, band director at Kirkman High and our summer band teacher. Rick was as good a trumpet player and musician as one could possibly be. I was always a bit envious of his natural ability. In case you didn't know, Rick's mom dated Al Hirt, the famous New Orleans jazz trumpeter. What a teacher to have popping by the house from time to time.

I was very saddened to hear of Rick's death at Lula Lake, but I knew he was in one of his most favorite spots on earth. Since he had gotten his life back on track, I'm sure God just dedided to take him up from there.

I remember when I was with him in the light blue Mustang convertible and we had a couple of girls with the top laid back (who will remain nameless because I can't remember who they were) and Rick decided to do some freewheeling on the gravels of Lula Lake Rd. Scared the crap out of everybody, but Rick just died laughing acting as though he knew all along what he was doing.

I have missed him every time I have ever thought of him.

11/03/09 10:09 PM #2    

Cassie Bowers (Chancey) (1971)

Rick was one of the most special people I have ever known in my life. He also is one of the people who made a huge impact on my life. We grew up together, and he was one of my very best friends, my "brother." Rick and Steve were my "brothers." And they were in every sense of the word except biologically. Rick was someone I could talk to about anything; I could rant and rave or cry or laugh hysterically...he was always there for me. He taught me how to laugh at myself and not take myself so seriously. I could call him any time day or night and sometimes we would talk for hours. He was so talented, that trumphet - Lord, how I loved to hear him play that trumphet!! And the guitar, the piano. He was so smart and funny - never at a loss for a witty remark or a funny comeback. He always kept us entertained on the bus. I missed him so much when I moved away from Chattanooga, and when I heard he died...well, words can't even express the sorrow I felt. Rick, I love you bud, thank you for everything you brought to my life.

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