“Roof roof roof” sign holder passes away, leaving behind legacy of being Husker volleyball’s biggest fan

Richard Umholtz's family mourns the loss while reminiscing on his time as a Husker volleyball fan

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Richard Umholtz passed away Monday evening, leaving behind his legacy of being one of the biggest Husker volleyball fans.

Richard Umholtz was a season ticket holder since 1994, and hadn’t missed more than 12 games in the past 30 years.

He became known for his “ROOF ROOF ROOF” sign that he brought to every Husker volleyball match. This sign even began a chant throughout the years.

“Everyone raises their hands and chants out “Roof roof roof” after the announcer says point Huskers,” Steven Umholtz, Richard’s son, said. “He holds up that sign and waves it around and hopes to get on camera. He loves the attention.”

Richard Umholtz watched his daughter perform for Husker marching band in the ’90’s and then would head over to watch his favorite team.

“He just lit up when he was at the games,” Steven Umholtz said. “To see how happy he was just makes us feel so good inside. Just to see him that happy with a big smile on his face.”