Adamson, Richard's Obituary
Rich Adamson was a man who left you feeling a little better than when you came. Always a believer in second chances, his kindness shone through his warm smile and welcome. He was always willing to lend an ear, helping hand, or practical guidance. Up for anything, Rich would eagerly sing hymns, swing a golf club, or join you for a game, caring more about the time together than expertise. Leading from behind, he was a loving husband and father, church elder, and friend who didn’t sweat the small stuff but always made time for the people around him. Rich leaves behind a legacy of 52 years of marriage to Jane and three children, Scott, Kathryn and Grace, all who love him dearly. He is also survived by his two brothers, Russell Jr (Elizabeth) and Steve (Mary Jane), his nieces and nephews, and his children’s grandmother, Penny Mason.
Growing up in a golfing family in New Jersey, Rich was the quintessential middle child. Always up for an adventure, he pursued a degree from the University of Arizona, where he was a member of the fraternity Delta Upsilon, rode a motorcycle over the border to Mexico, and played endless bridge games. Graduating in 1968 with his BS and then earning a CPA license, Rich began his career in California in accounting, where he even spent time at Road & Track magazine, running the Christian Yellow Pages, and enjoying driving his little red Porsche.
His path took a meaningful turn when he discovered his true calling wasn’t in accounting but in encouraging people to give. Moving his family to Sacramento, Rich joined KVIE’s fundraising team, quickly becoming a leader. That passion then carried him to Iowa, where he became Executive Director of Friends of Iowa Public Television. He led the station to an award-winning year in 1998 and was recognized by peers as a Master Teacher at the Membership Academy, even recruiting his daughter Kathryn for a commercial and introducing his children to the joys of Red Green duct tape. Rich eventually returned to his accounting roots in Tampa, helping a hydroponics business realize their dreams and a local church run their books, always more interested in the people behind the balance sheet than the numbers themselves.
Family was never far from Rich’s heart. Rich met Jane through his cousins and never looked back. Falling in love, they lived in Corona Del Mar and built a life together in California and became increasingly involved in the church. Rich was a devout husband and cheerleader, supporting Jane in advancing her education, enjoying her career, and participating in women’s groups.
For his kids, Rich was truly a dad. Affectionately known as “pops,” he was always ready with a joke, hug, or “dad-vice.” Even if Rich saw things differently, he was sure to let them know he loved them no matter what.
Rich also dedicated his life to a relationship with God. Rich served as a senior leader in many churches over the years, including as a deacon and treasurer at Des Moines First Assembly and an elder at Bethel Church in Tampa. His commitment to his Bible studies, men’s groups, and volunteering was his way of connecting to people around him, offering his hand to walk alongside. In Iowa, Rich served on the board of Teen Challenge, helping men find a second chance after prison and addiction, led Dave Ramsey classes in Tampa, and opened his home and heart to friends, touching many lives along the way.
The other interests Rich had in life were golf, cards and reading. Rich loved a sunny day on the greens, whether with his two brothers or friends in the close community of Temple Terrace. If he wasn’t on the golf course, Rich could be found playing games. He and Jane frequently opened their home to friends for an evening of fellowship and cards, dominoes, or trains. Until the end, Rich was known for his ability to be competitive and win or lose with a smile on his face. And if you ever wanted to borrow a mystery novel or Lord of the Rings, Rich would happily share from his extensive collection.
Rich will be dearly missed by family and friends.
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