Rick Lagina, the star of the popular reality show The Curse of Oak Island, passed away on August 15, 2023, at the age of 71. He died of natural causes at his home in Michigan, surrounded by his family and friends. He is survived by his brother Marty Lagina, his son Alex Lagina, and his daughter Maddie Lagina.
A Passionate Treasure Hunter
Rick Lagina was born on January 25, 1952, in Kingsford, Michigan. He grew up with a fascination for the Oak Island mystery, which he first read about in the January 1965 issue of Reader’s Digest. He dreamed of solving the 227-year-old mystery and finding the legendary treasure that was rumored to be buried on the island, off the shore of Nova Scotia, Canada.
He worked as a postal worker for many years before retiring and pursuing his passion for treasure hunting. He joined forces with his brother Marty, a successful businessman and engineer, and formed a partnership with Dan and Dave Blankenship, the father-son duo who had been searching for the Oak Island treasure since the 1960s.
In 2014, they launched The Curse of Oak Island, a reality television series that chronicled their efforts to find the treasure and historical artifacts on the island. The show became a hit on the History channel, attracting millions of viewers and fans who followed their adventures and discoveries.
A Legacy of Discovery
Rick Lagina was a leader and a visionary who inspired his team and his audience with his enthusiasm and determination. He was also a humble and generous man who cared deeply about his family, his friends, and his community. He donated to various causes and charities, including the Michigan Humane Society and the Oak Island Preservation Society.
He was also a mentor and a friend to many of the experts and specialists who joined his team over the years, such as Gary Drayton, Laird Niven, Terry Matheson, and Steve Guptill. He treated them with respect and gratitude, and shared his knowledge and wisdom with them.
Rick Lagina made many significant discoveries on Oak Island, such as coins, artifacts, bones, tunnels, chambers, structures, and clues that shed light on the history and mystery of the island. He also made connections between the Oak Island mystery and other historical events and figures, such as the Knights Templar, the Freemasons, Francis Bacon, Samuel Ball, and Zena Halpern.
He never gave up on his quest to find the treasure and solve the mystery, even when he faced challenges and setbacks. He always believed that there was something incredible hidden on Oak Island, and that he was destined to find it.
A Final Farewell
Rick Lagina’s death has left a huge void in the hearts of his family, his team, his fans, and his fellow treasure hunters. He will be remembered as a legend and a hero who dedicated his life to pursuing his dream and sharing it with the world.
His brother Marty Lagina said in a statement: “Rick was my best friend, my partner, my brother. He was everything to me. He taught me so much about life, about adventure, about courage. He was always there for me, no matter what. I will miss him more than words can say.”
His son Alex Lagina said: “My dad was my hero. He was an amazing father who loved me unconditionally. He showed me how to be a good person, how to follow my passion, how to never give up. He was always proud of me, always supportive of me. I will always cherish our memories together.”
His daughter Maddie Lagina said: “My dad was my role model. He was an incredible father who gave me everything I ever wanted. He taught me how to be strong, how to be adventurous, how to be curious. He was always fun to be around, always making me laugh. I will always love him.”
The Curse of Oak Island team also expressed their condolences and tributes to Rick Lagina on social media. They praised him for his leadership, his vision, his generosity, his kindness, and his legacy.
The History channel also released a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rick Lagina. He was a beloved member of our History family who captivated millions of viewers with his passion for treasure hunting and adventure. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and watched him on The Curse of Oak Island. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
Rick Lagina’s funeral will be held on August 20 at St. Mary’s Church in Kingsford. His family has requested that in lieu of flowers or gifts, donations be made to the Oak Island Preservation Society or any charity of choice in Rick’s name.
Rick Lagina’s obituary is a tribute to his life and achievements as a treasure hunter and a reality TV star. He will be remembered as one of the most influential and inspiring figures in the history of Oak Island. He will also be remembered as a loving and devoted father, brother, and friend. Rest in peace, Rick Lagina. You have left a mark on the world that will never be forgotten.
