Richard “Rick” Dailey

Richard “Rick” Dailey

Oakland, CA

Richard Michael Dailey died peacefully on August 16, 2025. He was 81. Rick was an easygoing and positive person who greeted everyone with a smile, followed by a thoughtful question, a listening ear, and an ability to make others laugh.

Rick was born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and grew up in Springville and Viola. He graduated from Anamosa High and earned his B.A. in History from the University of Iowa.

He worked retail at Things Things and Things in Iowa City, So to Speak in Oxford, Ohio, and GNC in Michigan. In California, he was the manager of Berkeley Natural Grocery Company for 36 years. Rick humbly encouraged the founders to become active members of the Non-GMO Project, which they did. He treasured 3 years in Maui also. He was an engaged member of Glide Memorial Church for 25 years, AA for more than 40 years, and local rec groups.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Ellen and Ivan Dailey; brother Stephen Dailey; sister Sharon Dailey; friend and former wife, Marylou (Niles) Benjamin.

He is survived by an inner circle of close friends, godsons Kaualii and Kamoii, his sister-in-law, Judith Dailey; two nieces, Elaine (John) Mattingly and Cynthia Corne (Bob) Musslewhite; two nephews, Aaron (Abby-Jaye) Larson and Brian (Katie) Larson; as well as two great-nieces and three great-nephews.

His Celebration of Life was already held at Chapel of the Chimes in Oakland CA. His Burial was held on Saturday, October 11, 11 a.m. at Jordan’s Grove Cemetery, Central City, IA. Donations in Rick Dailey’s name may be made to humane societies or public television.