Richard Ernest Eggers
Richard Ernest Eggers
November 7, 1954 ~ October 23, 2024
Richard Ernest Eggers, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away unexpectedly with his wife by his side on October 23, 2024 at 38,000 feet above the South Pacific Ocean. Born on November 7, 1954, in Orange, California, Richard was a beacon of loyalty, humor, and dedication. Raised in a large farmhouse on a sprawling orange grove covering fifteen acres, he spent his childhood in an idyllic setting as the youngest of five boys. He remembered walking around the grove before sunset with his father to light the oil lamp heaters, to prevent the citrus trees from freezing. He was surrounded by family and friends, laying the foundation for a life filled with adventure, generosity, and love.
A career firefighter, Richard dedicated 30 years of service to the City of Orange, where he rose from humble beginnings in 1973 to the esteemed role of Fire Captain. He pioneered a new standard in Truck Company Operations within the Orange Fire Department. His life-saving techniques are still in use today. Known for his humor and vibrant personality, Rich brought warmth to every moment, creating an audio-visual program for his department and even producing “Face the Station,” a monthly show that delighted his fellow firefighters and the community.
After a distinguished firefighting career, Rich pursued his lifelong passion to be an actor with determination and hard work. He graduated from the Del Mar Media Arts program, secured an agent, and threw himself into acting, appearing in commercials and films. Rich’s dedication and enthusiasm shone in every role, proving it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Rich’s journey continued as a firefighter at Disneyland, where he safeguarded the magic he loved sharing with his family. Through every endeavor, Rich’s joy and energy were unmistakable. He was the “real deal”.
Rich married his high school sweetheart, Margo, in 1976. Their marriage was a testament to deep love and shared adventures, from annual Christmas tree farm visits to holiday gatherings. As a father, he was immensely proud of his children, Brandon and Marissa, attending every game, recital, and milestone with unwavering support. Known as “Pop Pop” to his beloved granddaughters, Mckenzie and Charlotte, he took joy in their every laugh, adventure, and tradition, teaching them how to make his famous “Pop Pop Pasta” and treating them to magical days at Disneyland.
Rich’s passions extended to skiing, golf, and sports, where he was a lifelong NFL and NASCAR enthusiast. With a memory for trivia and faces, he made every person he met feel valued and remembered. Rich’s zest for life, humor, and warmth will be cherished by all who knew him.
Richard is survived by his wife, Margo; his children, Brandon and Marissa (husband James); granddaughters, Mckenzie and Charlotte; brothers, Victor, Jerry, Phillip, and Robert; and a large circle of extended family and friends. His life was one of joy, love, and purpose—a beautifully scripted journey that will remain in the hearts of those he touched.
A celebration of Richard’s life will be held on Monday, November 25, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Orange. In honor of Rich’s life of service and dedication, donations can be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, a cause he deeply believed in and supported. This foundation honors the legacy of first responders and veterans, a fitting tribute to Rich’s commitment to his community and country. Contributions can be made at www.t2t.org.
Graveside services for Richard will be held on Wednesday, November 27, 2024 at 11:00 am in the Alpine City Cemetery, located at 350 North Grove Drive, Alpine, Utah.
Thank you, Richard, for the love, laughter, and life you shared with us all. You are loved, honored, and forever remembered.