Richard “Rick” Arlen Haden, 81, of Lawrence, Kansas, entered into the presence of his Heavenly Father on Monday, July 13, 2026. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family.
Rick was born on October 22, 1944, in Scandia, Kansas, to William and Geneva (Flesher) Haden. He married the love of his life, Pamela Steinberger, and graduated from Concordia High School. The two were married for 65 wonderful years and raised four sons and a daughter together. Rick affectionately referred to his children as “The Five Crumb Grabbers,” a nickname that became a cherished part of the family’s story.
Rick was a lifelong fan of KU athletics and especially loved Kansas Jayhawk football, basketball, and the marching Jayhawks. One of his fondest childhood memories was hearing the distant whistle of giant steam locomotives as they rolled into town, then racing to get a closer look. That fascination never faded, and he was thrilled to witness the legendary Big Boy 4014 steam engine during its visits to Lawrence.
Music was woven throughout Rick’s life, and he delighted in sharing that passion with his children and anyone willing to listen. He proudly held onto the vinyl records he began collecting in 1958. From doo-wop classics to today’s hits, Rick could always find a song that struck a chord. He was known for his quick wit, infectious smile, and perfectly timed one-liners that could brighten even the toughest day.
Rick served as Assistant Manager for Montgomery Ward in Concordia. When the store closed, rather than transferring with the company, he chose to begin a new chapter with Pepsi-Cola. It was there that he built the career for which many knew him best. As a Route Supervisor based in Concordia, Rick proudly helped keep the Pepsi generation going strong, serving communities throughout north-central Kansas while building lasting friendships everywhere he went.
Rick was preceded in death by his parents, William and Geneva Haden, and his brother, Robert Haden.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Pamela; his children, David (Veronica) of Abilene, Kansas; Rick of Concordia, Kansas; Michael (Sara) of Park City, Kansas; Erik of Lawrence, Kansas; and Stacie Palacios (Jose) of Olathe, Kansas; his brother, Mark (Debbie) of Palmdale, California; eight grandchildren, Ryan, Drew, Leah, Kyle, Andrew, Amber, Isaac, and Ellie; and five great-grandchildren.
Rick will be remembered for his unwavering love of family, his deep faith, his quick sense of humor, and his lifelong passions for music, trains, and the Kansas Jayhawks. His legacy of faith, laughter, kindness, and love will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.