Rick Lagina, one of the stars of the popular reality show “The Curse of Oak Island”, passed away on June 6, 2023, at the age of 68. He died of natural causes at his home in Michigan, surrounded by his family and friends.
Rick Lagina was a retired postal worker who had a lifelong fascination with the mystery of Oak Island, a small island off the coast of Nova Scotia, Canada, where many treasure hunters have searched for centuries for a rumored hidden treasure. He first learned about the island when he was 11 years old and read an article about it in the January 1965 edition of Reader’s Digest⁴.
In 2006, he and his brother Marty Lagina bought a controlling interest in Oak Island Tours, the company that owns most of the island. They started their own treasure hunt, which became the subject of “The Curse of Oak Island”, a reality show that premiered on History Channel in 2014⁴. The show followed their efforts to find clues and artifacts related to the island’s history and legends, such as the Money Pit, a deep shaft that supposedly contains a vast fortune².
Rick Lagina was the main driving force behind the project, and his passion and perseverance inspired many fans and fellow treasure hunters. He was also known for his integrity, honor, and faith in the island’s secrets. He once said: “Once in, forever in!”²
He is survived by his brother Marty Lagina, his son Alex Lagina, and his nephew Peter Fornetti, who were all part of the Oak Island team. He also leaves behind many other relatives and friends who shared his love for adventure and discovery.
Rick Lagina will be remembered as a devoted explorer, a loyal brother, a loving father, and a generous friend. He will be greatly missed by his family, his colleagues, and his fans around the world.
Rest in peace, Rick Lagina. You have left a lasting legacy on Oak Island and beyond.
