Obituary: John Richard (Rick) Mangelsdorf

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9/2/1955 – 10/29/2026
Lawrence

John Richard (Rick) Mangelsdorf, age 71, passed away on October 29, 2026. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Rick was born in Atchison, Ks., on September 2, 1955, to Alfred & Velma Mangelsdorf.

He moved to Lawrence, Ks., to attend KU in 1974. He met his wife, Kathleen Bechtold, in 1977, also from Atchison. They married in September of 1981. They have two sons, Travis and Lucas.

Rick was the kindest person you would ever meet. He would do anything to help and never wanted any help or attention.

Besides his family and friends, photography and music were his passions. Most of his working years were in construction and maintenance.

Survivors include two sons; Travis Mangelsdorf, Lawrence, Lucas Mangelsdorf, Lawrence; two sisters; Susie Sutter & Debbie Kane; and one brother; William (Bill) Mangelsdorf.

Brother Robert Mangelsdorf preceded him in death.

Note: The Lawrence Times is offering Lawrence and Douglas County community members space to publish remembrances of loved ones who lived in this community, free of charge. These pieces are submitted by family and friends of the deceased and not written by our staff. Photos are also provided to the publication, and some may have been altered prior to submission. Read more obituaries here.

We are honored to be able to offer this service free to community members in mourning. We believe the last thing our neighbors need in those difficult moments is another financial matter to worry about. Please support the Times to help us continue providing this service — and news access — for all.

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