Richard "Dick" Tidrow, the former major league baseball player , passed away suddenly on Saturday, July 10, 2021 at the age of 74. Our beloved husband, father, grandpa, and friend has entered the gates of Heaven.  He will now be attending all MLB games in his private suite from above.

Dick was born May 14, 1947 in San Francisco, California to William Jr. and Paula Tidrow.   He was married to Mari Jo Molinaro on February 22, 1976. At an early age, Dick developed a strong passion for the fame of baseball.  He carried this drive through his lifetime, during his professional playing days and forward. He played professionally for thirteen seasons, with the Cleveland Indians, New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, and the New York Mets. He earned many personal awards as a starter, setup man, and long reliever.  He contributed to the World Series with the Yankees in 1977 and 1978.  During his Yankee years, he was one of Billy Martin's "boys."  Those teams were noted as fierce competitors and fun-loving guys.  There were so many special moments for him.  He roomed with Ron Guidry, he was a prankster with Sparky Lyle, he hunted with "Catfish" Hunter, and dined with Thurmon Munson.  To this day, the wives and families have a tight bond and remain close.

After his playing days, he so loved the game that he continued with the Yankees as a professional scout. He then joined his dear friend, soon-to-be boss, Brian Sabean, with the San Francisco Giants. He helped construct a team that has been accomplished over the past twenty-eight years.  Dick's keen eye for evaluating talent was invaluable to the organization and truly a God-given gift.  With that gift he acquired champions such as Matt Cain, Tim Lincecum, Madison Bumgarner, Brandon Crawford, and numerous other players.

Dick was a unique man who carried himself with an intense demeanor during baseball business.  Brian Sabean said when he entered the room, it was like bringing in a pitbull!  Once the discussions and trade talks were over for the day, he returned to his fun-loving nature that we all knew and loved. Dick was an extremely hard worker, dedicated employee and wonderful provider for his family.  Although he shared many accomplishments during his career, his biggest accomplishment was meeting the love of his life and soulmate of 45 years, Mari Jo Molinaro.  He always brought her flowers and would surprise her with unexpected trips, especially a New Year's trip to Paris and Italy that he planned as a total surprise for Mari Jo. He even hired a driver to take them to meet her relatives in Italy that she had never met before.

Dick was a devoted husband and very well-matched with Mari Jo. He was a great Dad, PaPa, and family man. He always went out of his way to make the ones he loved smile. Dick so looked forward to big family gatherings- the holidays and special occasions with Italian food and wine that he loved.  He would always be in the kitchen, sampling and cooking.  He loved bringing his camera and taking close ups of the family and making his own movies. He loved taking the family to the Ozarks for fishing, relaxing, and boating.  He also enjoyed long family road trips to Mount Rushmore, Florida and San Francisco.  He also enjoyed taking Andy with him on work trips.

We are all so proud of his accomplishments and happy that he was able to live life to the fullest and so glad to be a part of it.

Dick was especially close to his granddaughter, Trista.  She shares his great drive and determination.  He was always there to support her with whatever sport she was in.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Willian and Paula; sister, Linda Epperson, grandparents William, Sr. and Hazel Tidrow; and father-in-law, Gene Molinaro.  Dick was blessed and is survived by his wife, Mari Jo; children: Tammy and Rick, Andy, Richelle and Matthew; grandchildren Riley, Carly, Trista, Marley and Waylon.  His also survived by his sister, Connie (Larry) McCullough, mother-in-law Grace Molinaro, brother-in-law Jim (Flo) Molinaro, sister-in-law Debbie Korona; brother-in-law Rob Epperson, nieces and nephews Matthew and Jennifer Molinaro, Tyler (Julie) and Kristen Korona and many other extended family members.

Visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m. with the Funeral Mass at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, July 19th at Our Lady of the Presentation Catholic Church, Lee's Summit, MO. Burial will follow at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Raytown, MO. The wearing of masks is encouraged. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association or St. Jude's Children's Association.

Pallbearers: Jim Molinaro, Matt Molinaro, Tyler Korona, Jim Getto, Pete Eliason, Vic Terranella.

Honorary Pallbearers: Sparky Lyle, Ron Guidry, Brian Sabean, Bobby Evans, Yeshayah Goldfarb, Phill La Chapelle, Dr. Scott Frankel

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com