Memorial

Richard “Dick” Alva Kriz, 89, of Cedar Rapids passed away peacefully on September 5th, 2023, at the home he and his father proudly built in 1961.

He lived an interesting life and his stories reflected that. He had a curious mind right up until the end and could supply the details we had forgotten! He loved people, golfing, swimming, playing games and, of course, music.

His life-long passion for music started with piano lessons as a child. While attending Franklin high school, he joined the choir, sang in a barbershop quartet and bought his first bass. After graduating in 1952, he began playing professionally with local groups.

Dick fell in love at first sight with Darlene “Pinkie” Discher in 1956 and they married on September 15th of that year. Six weeks later, he was drafted into the Army. Fortunately, he was recruited into Special Services, where he played throughout Germany and was introduced to jazz on an international level.

Upon returning home in 1958, he worked as a Sheet Metal Worker (Local 263) and later as a Boilermaker (Local 83). He continued to play in symphonies and with a variety of bands throughout the Midwest and has been an active member of the Musicians Protective Union (Local 137) since 1952.

Dick appreciated being able to age at home and was deeply grateful for the support he received from his family, friends, neighbors, and care team. 

Survivors include his loving wife of 67 years Darlene “Pinkie” Kriz of Cedar Rapids, children Carrie Kriz of Cedar Rapids, Jennifer Slauson (Douglas) of Swisher, and Amy Kriz Ackman (Mark) of Cedar Rapids, sister Sandy Armstrong (Gene) of Springville, and brother Thomas Kriz (Fran) of Cedar Rapids, grandchildren Anne Schons (Anthony) of Iowa City, Aaron Ackman (Erin) of Johnston, Sierra Ackman (Alli) of Lakewood, CO, and Kathryn O’Brien (Quinn) of Mt. Vernon, and great grandchildren Hazel Schons, Etta Schons, and Henry O’Brien.

Preceding him in death were his parents Lois and Jerome Kriz and granddaughter Abby Kriz Bowman.

Visitation: 1-3 PM, Saturday, September 16, 2023, at Cedar Memorial Chapel Stateroom. Memorial Service: 3:00 PM, Saturday, September 16, 2023, at Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories.