- Born on: May 5, 1935
- Departed on: May 29, 2023
- Resided in: Cedar Rapids, IA
Richard "Rich" Koolbeck
My sympathy to all the members of Rich's Family. Back in the 1950s in Mason City, Iowa Rich and I were team mates in the summer with the Mason City Braves. Rich was a Pitcher and I was a Catcher. Great Team Mate and Pitcher. Never threw hard but always threw smart. His success in Teachering, Coaching, etc., is no surprise. God Bless.W
Thanks to Rich for starting the baseball program at Kirkwood. I coached for years after Rich. I also had all of my baseball players that needed a math class take one with him.
Mrs. Koolbeck & Family: My sincere sympathy for your loss. I played for Coach Koolbeck on one of his first Kirkwood baseball teams and had him as an instructor for math classes there. I have always had nothing but the deepest respect and regard for Coach. I can honestly say that if it wasn't for his encouragement, discipline, and belief in me I would not have graduated from college (UNI) and would not have the life I have today. I hope it provides some comfort knowing what a positive influence he was and what a difference he made in his players and students lives. Thank you, Coach Kool. Rest in peace.
Marge and family you have our sympathy at the loss of your husband and father Rich Koolbeck. I played a lot of golf with Rich after retirement and and have many great memories of Rich. I also remember when we ran the Olympic Run from Jackson School to Coolidge and Rich and Marge were sitting out in front of their house waving the American Flag for my kids. They really enjoyed that. Again you have our best wishes to carry on and remember all the great times with Rich. Hal and Carolyn
Marge, our deepest condolences to you and your family in your loss. May you find peace and comfort in the wonderful memories you have. Unfortunately, we won’t see you on June 16th because we will be out of the state. Blessings, Genny and Andy Yarne
My dad wanted me to pass this message along: "Rich was one of the smartest people I have met. I learned a lot from officiating basketball with him. Rich never looked down on anyone, he was a class act. Because of Rich, I'm a better person today. God Bless You and Your Family". Ron Sommers, Mesa, AZ
