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Richard Block Obituary

Richard ("Dick") Block, passed away on September 30, 2024, at the age of 97. After growing up in San Francisco, he served in the Merchant Marine and Coast Guard. He also graduated from Stanford, with which he had a life-long association.

Dick led a storied career in radio and television that spanned seven decades. His work included developing and managing stations with Kaiser Broadcasting, where he pioneered UHF. Later, he created the Travel Channel and Game Show Network. Recent decades saw him consulting extensively, including for the Rose Parade to promote international coverage. A passionate educator and mentor, Dick produced biannual College Career Day events across the country for 18 years, and he taught broadcasting at the University of Southern California (USC) from 2006 to the current semester.

Dick, son of Charles and Bertha (Margolis) and brother of Harryette (Nestel), was married twice (to Cecelia Ulfelder and later, Marilyn Quinn). He is survived by two children, Julie Grunsky (Curtis) and Nick Block (Patricia), four grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. Dick passed peacefully in Santa Monica from heart-related complications of amyloidosis. A celebration of his life will be held at the USC School of Cinematic Arts. For more information, or donations (in lieu of flowers), please contact [email protected].

Dick's wit, wisdom, and generosity will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed.
Published by Los Angeles Times from Oct. 11 to Oct. 13, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Block

Sponsored by Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary.

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5 Entries

Janet Denise Allen

September 5, 2025

While rummaging through my office recently, I came across Dick´s business card. It brought back fond memories of my time as a graduate student at Morgan State University, when I had the privilege of assisting at the NATPE annual conference in Washington, DC. I also recall with gratitude the afternoon we spent together on the West Coast, sharing insights and stories about the television industry.

I was deeply saddened to learn of his passing. His wisdom, generosity, and passion for broadcasting left an enduring impression on me, and I will always cherish the conversations we had.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. Dick´s legacy will live on through the many lives he influenced, and he will be greatly missed.

With deepest sympathy,
Janet Allen

Armineh

December 17, 2024

I was deeply saddened to learn of Professor Block´s passing. I became concerned when he didn´t respond to my emails, and the news came as a shock. I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Professor Block was a remarkable man who had a profound impact on my life. I learned so much from him, and his guidance helped me secure my job, a debt of gratitude I will carry forever.

Thank you for your wisdom and kindness, Professor Block. Rest in peace. You will be deeply missed.

Michael D. Young

October 23, 2024

Even though I didn´t know Mr. Richard Block personally I would like to say thank you to him, as he had service to our country at this time. A Flag should be in the paragraph statement at the current time as he is a Veteran, and had service to our country at this time. I also would like to thank him for bringing us two enjoyable television channels, the Travel Channel, and the Game Show Network as these television stations are carried on most cable companies across America. He was a definitely a special man that will be missed, my heart and prayers go out to all of his family members at this time. Your Friend and U.S. Veteran Michael D. Young in La Vista Nebraska

Randi Pollock

October 11, 2024

I knew Dick for 30 years. He was a special man and will definitely be missed. My heart goes out ti the family.

.

October 10, 2024

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

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for Richard Block

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Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park and Mortuary

1218 Glendon Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90024

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