Life Tributes Richard ‘Dick’ Van Raaphorst

1942 - 2020

SAN DIEGO —

Dick Van Raaphorst passed away at the age of 77 on Oct. 3, 2020, in San Diego. He was born in Charlevoix, MI, son of Helen and William Van Raaphorst, the eldest of three boys (Robert and Ronald.) Dick was a three-sport athlete in high school. He went on to attend The Ohio State University on a football scholarship, playing under Woody Hayes. Dick met and married his then wife, Joanne Whitney, while at OSU. Soon thereafter, eldest son Jeff was born. Dick played professionally for the Dallas Cowboys and San Diego Chargers.

After retiring in San Diego, he became a broadcaster and later a real estate investor – sons Billy and Mike were born during this time. Dick’s career ultimately brought him back to his love of football as a coach/ quarterback trainer. He was a father-in-law to Christi and Alison and grandfather to Jacob, Haley (her husband Dan), Cade, Michael, Caroline, and Grant.

Dick’s children, their spouses and grandchildren were blessed to receive his unbridled love and support, along with the occasional life lesson. His friends knew they could always depend on him. Coach Van Raap influenced many of his players by teaching them to work hard, be accountable and stay humble. The community of South Mission Beach was a second family to him later in life. He will be missed but never forgotten.

A private remembrance will be held at a later date.

Donations may be made in his memory to The First Tee of San Diego: https:// www.thefirstteesandiego. org/donate/