Richard Bruce Rollins

“Wherever a beautiful soul has been there is a trail of beautiful memories”*

Richy Rollins, a cherished member of the Santa Barbara community known for his kindness, humor, and adventurous spirit, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2024, in the town he adored. He was 80 years old.

Richy was born on September 25, 1943, in Sacramento, California, to his loving parents Vernon and Thelma Rollins. As an only child, he was the center of their world, and they supported his every endeavor with boundless love and encouragement. His childhood was brimming with joyous memories of swim parties, backyard filmmaking and countless escapades, thanks to his parents nurturing guidance.

After graduating from West Covina High School in 1961, Rich pursued his passion for surfing and beach life, spending several memorable months in Hawaii with his close high school friends. Upon returning to the mainland he eventually settled in Santa Barbara, where he served as the manager of the local branch of Bohemian Liquor Distributing Company.

In 1976, during a vacation to Munich, Germany, Richy’s life changed forever when he met the love of his life, Heidi Fischer, in a beer tent at he Oktoberfest. Their romance was nothing short of enchanting, and Heidi, along with her daughter Vera, relocated to Santa Barbara to be with him in October 1977.

Richard was a man of diverse talents and passions. He had a knack for filmmaking, often involving friends and family in his creative and humorous projects. A skilled craftsman, he transitioned to becoming a General Contractor in 1986, leaving his mark on numerous homes in Santa Barbara. Among his proudest achievements was the personal residence he built with his father in the early 1970s, where he and Heidi shared countless blissful years.

An ardent surfer, Rich found solace and joy riding the waves at Ledbetter beach and Rincon Point. In retirement the couple embarked on visits to Maui and enjoyed other numerous adventures around the globe, forming lasting friendships wherever they went.

In 1999 one of Richy’s greatest dreams was realized when his granddaughter Sienna was born. Throughout her childhood Sienna could always count on grandpa’s crazy surprises, his funny antics
and a warm gentle hug whenever she saw him. Rich’s warmth and humor touched the lives of all who knew him, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Heidi; loving daughter Vera; adored granddaughter, Sienna; and son in law, Dan (Henke).

In honoring Richard’s memory, let us celebrate the laughter, love and joy he brought into the world. May he rest in peace, his spirit forever riding the waves of our hearts.

*R.W. Reagan (1911-2004)