So sorry to learn of Rich's passing. He was one of a kind and wonderful guy to know. I used to love our time together in his old paddock, surrounded by Porsche 356s, parts strewn about and DD coffee cups stacked to the ceiling. Literally. "They are holding up the roof," Rich would say. When we were in this sacred space, putting a micrometer to a shim, eyeballing an alignment, picking out the right tool, we weren't just figuring out an old Porsche. We were figuring out life. Zen and the art of getting through another winter in Groton, MA. "As long a we remember a person, they are not really gone..." I remember you buddy. 

Rich and I roomed one night in Romania, a character in his own way,enjoyed his role as Big Julie in Guys and Dolls

I’ve known Rich for over 20 years. First through the online community 914World, and then hanging out at Porsche events. We had similar tastes in old cars. Rich once said to me “I wish you lived closer, we’d build some really weird stuff!”  Rich was always gracious with his time and knowledge, and was a really funny guy. Prickly sometimes, sure. But, also funny. The day before he passed he was trying to diagnose someone’s Porsche 914 over the internet. Hearing of his passing was shocking. Though it’s been years since I’ve seen him in person, I will always remember him walking around the Hershey Pa Porsche Swap, doing un-intentional Magnum PI cosplay. Driving his white 914 back home Sunday with the engine lid opened, trying to keep that car’s engine cool while climbing up the long fast hills on I81 north.

Rich , you are an absolute legend!

Rich was not only my brother in law but also a good friend before I married his sister Pamela.  I selected this picture of me with my three nephews Axel, Abel and Arlo  because I wanted to point out how long I have known and loved them! I'm so proud of my nephews for all that they have done to honor their father and support their mother Lisa after Rich passed.  I am so proud of you all and lucky it's an honor to be an uncle of the three fine young men you have become!  Much LOVE to the family!

I’m Brad Towle, Rich’s older brother by about 6 years, so I’ve known Rich for his entire life.

Rich was an amazing, complex, unique and often brilliant friend, and always a force to be reckoned with. While I’ve heard or observed many of Rich’s stories over the years, today I’ll share what I knew first hand about Rich, which of course is only a part of who he was. So I am looking forward to hearing others tell their stories, to celebrate his amazing life and to add to my appreciation and understanding of Rich.

Rich was my best friend and my brother. Today my heart is broken and filled with grief.

The last time I saw Rich was at Anna and Robin’s reception at the end of December. He was so proud of them, and the entire family was there to celebrate. He was at peace and happy. It was one of those cherished moments that is now burned in my memory forever.

I have always been so proud of Rich and Lisa for the life and family they built together, with kids, grandkids and a place to gather and call home. And I told him how proud I was of him quite often, not like an older brother to a younger brother, but as a best friend who I loved.

As some of you know, Jenny and I lived in TN for many years and missed so many family events because of that distance. One reason we moved to MA in 23’ was to be closer to Rich and Lisa’s family, knowing that Rich’s health could decline quickly any day.

Rich and Lisa have always been so welcoming, so we visited their home often for various events and holidays, often watching the grandkids playing on the many adventures Rich and Lisa had built. We were able to see Rich several times in the last 2 years, where before it was once every couple of years when we lived in TN. That gives me some level of comfort, because he knew I loved him and wanted to be closer to him and he knew I understood many the challenges he faced in life, health and work.

The last time we talked was on the Friday right before he passed. We talked about ADHD of which he is an expert, then insulating the space over my garage, for which he provided detailed plans on creating what he called an igloo cooler from the space and recently powering through the final months and years of working fulltime for someone else, which at this age is a major challenge. I understand Rich had these kinds of conversations with many family, friends and employees. In my opinion his love language was both being there, acts of service and helping people with his knowledge and problem solving skills.

We usually talked every week or so, about anything going on in our lives. I’ve known for a long time that Rich was a genius and I was often calling for advice or ideas for solutions to problems. He always came through and gave freely of his time and ideas. He is an amazing teacher and learner. I know in the days and weeks to come I will want to send a quick text or pick up the phone to call and hear his voice and he won’t be there. He almost always picked up when I called and I did the same for him, and of course did a lot of texting. So I found only one very short VM. Here it is.

As I said, we often texted and here is a brief sampling of text topics in Rich’s words:
- Tetris for adults (regarding loading a pod during our move from TN) - footnote that one day during the move, Rich called and said he would be happy to hop on a plane and be there to help. He said he could drive the truck up, if he needed it. And he meant it. That’s the kind of thing he would do without hesitation.
- Hilarious find for Lisa this morning (regarding a Victor mousetrap I recommended that caught a mouse)
- The torture has ended for 2 weeks (regarding being off from work for the Christmas break this year)
- Teaching babies (regarding the cocky yet completely out of their league sales people who he had to work with every day, and who tried to tell HIM how to sell)
- Do they have Guiness? (regarding a restaurant I suggested so we could meet up for dinner)
- The solar app can be addicting (regarding new Solar we had installed with Rich’s extensive advice)
- Are you bringing cookies? (Regarding his love for my Towle House Cookies and would I bring them to Thanksgiving in 2023’)

Rich lived a big life with lots of challenges and changes. From a carpenter to a sales guy to a recruiter to a security expert and a CEO. Almost all of it was self-taught, and certainly self-driven. He traveled extensively for work and even lived in Germany for a while, with the entire family of Lisa and 4 kids. No small feat. There was nothing that Rich wanted to accomplish that he couldn’t accomplish. It simply came down to how much time and energy he had. He was an amazing learner, and when he found something that interested him, he used his hyper-focus super power and quickly became an expert.

Rich was also a doer and a generous spirit. He simply got stuff done (not the word he would use) Very few things he did halfway. It was balls to the walls. Whether it was cars, which he loved, fixing things, building things or learning a new work skill to support his family, nothing was halfway or off limits.

I have a few brief stories I’d like to share with you:

1. When my Dad passed in 2011, I was also graduating the same weekend with my MBA from UMass. I talked to Rich and Mom and they both agreed I should go to graduation, since it was after the memorial. Not only that, but Rich and Mom both came to see me accept my diploma. That was just the kind of person Rich was. He did things because he knew what was the right thing to do. He got stuff done.
2. I remember when Rich and Lisa came and visited us in TN on the farm. It is a long trip but they made seeing us a priority. We were so appreciative because we didn’t often get family visitors in TN. Rich and Lisa just made that visit happen and Rich got to share the farm we had in TN.
3. When we got here to MA, Rich took a 2 hr drive in his Porsche just to come see me at the house. As we toured the old house we bought in Southampton, Rich pointed out things I could do and explained how to do them. He was a wealth of knowledge and always had amazing advice to help me. I knew that helping others and doing things is Rich’s love language. So I know he loved me. Being there is also his love language.
4. It was just a few weeks ago that I could not get a tire off my car. Who did I call? Rich. Turned out it was an aluminum wheel fused to a steel car which apparently every car guy knows. He talked me through it with options A, B and C.
5. Rich rented a house in FL for Mom’s 90th birthday. He bought a new boat, new car and made sure the entire family could be there. I was so lucky to be able to come and brought Anjolie and her cousin Sara along. What a fun time. Rich was in his glory. For many people it would have been considered a grand gesture. Not for Rich. For him it was simply creating another memorable experience for the family, whatever it took. I believe he did that a lot over the last few years, knowing his time was short. So please remember those memories that he created, because they are part of his legacy.

Rich and I talked openly about the ticking time bomb inside his chest that could go off at any moment. He knew his days were numbered and he wanted more than anything to set Lisa up for the rest of her life, giving her what she needed for her mobility, to ensure family would be close by to help her, and to provide her comfort as she aged. They have so many great memories from their current home, that as many of you know, they designed a new house for Lisa right on the property. Together they planned and strategically dealt with the regular barriers the town put up. Rich wanted to take care of his family even after he was not here in body.

His legacy is his family and their ongoing growth, health and safety. Signs of him and his many projects will be around at the family home forever.

The lessons I will carry in my heart for the rest of my days from Rich are these.

- Take care of your family, whatever it takes - bring them together, even if they don’t always get along
- Dream big and don’t be afraid to try new things
- Keep learning and asking question, then give freely of your time and knowledge to others
- Stop waiting - just do it. Get shit done - and …
- Love fully and with all your heart

Finally,

Everyone has different ideas about life, living and death. I think Rich believed that he had only one life to live and he lived it to the fullest. From riding motorcycles when he was younger, to Porsches as he got older. Jenny reminded me of the time when our old classic Ford Fairlane in TN would not start. I got on with Rich and talked, sent pictures and listened. He figured out the problem, so I got the starter relay, replaced it and the car started right up. Then he said “Now drive it like you stole it”

Rich will always be a part of me. So when I hear that tiny voice in my brain, that nudge to move forward and get shit done, or approaching a problem a certain way, that will be coming from my forever connection with Rich. I will carry his memory and energy with me for the rest of my days.

Here is a poem I’d like to share in his memory:

Bessie Anderson Stanley   Follow

Success
He has achieved success
who has lived well,
laughed often, and loved much;

who has enjoyed the trust of a
pure woman,

the respect of intelligent men and
the love of little children;

who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;

who has left the world better than he found it
whether by an improved poppy,
a perfect poem or a rescued soul;

who has never lacked appreciation of Earth's beauty
or failed to express it;

who has always looked for the best in others and
given them the best he had;

whose life was an inspiration;
whose memory a benediction.

Thank you Rich, husband, father, brother and friend. You have made me and my life better for knowing you. Every time I have a Guiness in my hand from this day forward, I will be making a toast to you, one of the best people I’ve ever known. Love you my brother and best friend. Wherever you are, remember to “drive it like you stole it”

Dear Pam, My deepest sympathies to you and your family on the sudden passing of your dear brother Rich. May your happy memories help to console you.

I will miss Rich, really miss him. He was a phenomenal mentor and friend. We chatted multiple times a week. About work, life, family, future dreams, a funny joke, you name it. He was always there to provide sound advice or to lend a friendly ear. He was also an amazing champion believing in me, and us, even when you don't necessarily believe in yourself.You will be fondly remembered for the person you were and the lives you impacted. You will be missed Rich.

I long admired Richard’s professionalism and knowledge. He made it look easy.  I always looked up to you and continue to do so now that you are with our Father.

I have only met Rich twice when they were visiting Anna and Robin in Sweden. It was enough to know what a fine person he was. I looked forward to meet him again at the wedding to my son and his daughter this summer.

I think of his family who have lost a beloved family member.

Sending them all the strength to move on in their grief whit all their wonderful memories of Rich 

Whit love to you all. ❤️ R.IP Rich ❤️

My deepest condolences to Towle family and friends. While my work overlaps with Richard was brief, I always appreciated his energy, perspective, and insights. Rest in peace, Richard—my prayers for strength.

I only worked with Rich for a short time at Elastic.   He was a creative thinker, good sense of humor and always had a great story to tell.   The presales community lost a good person and a kind soul.

I’m saddened to hear about the passing of Rich and wish to share my condolences with the wonderful Towle family. I was happy to have shepherded Rich at the start of one of his many interesting career journeys. Rich had a world of experience and insatiable spirt when we first met. Over the years, I was grateful to have earned his friendship, trust, and to hear of his love for family and joy in his accomplishments. 

 He was humble but rightfully proud of his family and spoke of them often. He had a perpetual curiosity in tinkering small and at large and engaged in his passions with joy. People of consequence are rare and he was one of them who was both gifted at connection and fearless in his pursuit. His New England charm always carried an air of humor, a twinkle in his eyes, and a dash of mustache but behind it was always undercurrent of attention, presence, and purpose in every exchange.

 I'm grateful for the time he considered me a friend, birds chirping on his porch during our chats, and his indomitable wit. I know given how proud he was of his family and friend that his spirt, thankfully, will live on.  My thoughts are with his family.  I will miss him.

My condolences to Richard's family. I first met Richard when [ describe how you know each other ] and we would often [ include common activities together ].

Rich was a dear friend and a mentor. As I'm processing the news, I'm realizing how much I'll miss seeing my phone ring with an incoming call from Rich.

I first met Rich at Splunk. At first I was a little intimidated when Rich - with his tall frame and wearing a blazer - smiled from underneath his moustache and said, "so you're the new guy". 

It didn't take me long for anyone to see that behind that blazer was a huge heart. Out of his own kindness, he spent many hours going out of his way and teaching me about technology and security. Soon we became friends, and I found someone that genuinely had my back. I would not only ask him for work advice, but discuss all of my life's problems. 

At work, we had our share of mini adventures. Rich jumping on a plane on the weekend to help a customer while we tried to fix the bug before he landed. Rich distracting the customer talking about race cars while the product demo didn't seem to work. There was always a kind of comfort that not just me but the entire team felt that we had Rich.

When I was low in life, he would offer the little words of encouragement. He'd say, "Hey that was not a waste. You learnt something and that'll help you in the future".  He'd pump me up when I was hurt in love, "You should now buy a BMW". He'd remind me to take care of my parents. We had our own inside joke on "Beetlejuice".  A picture of Beetlejuice was the last text from him in October.

Rich always had my back and would always pick up my call. I know wherever you are, you must already have made a few friends. 

To Lisa and family, praying for strength to you. Rich will always be dearly loved by everyone who knew him.

With love,

Koulick

Lisa and children of Rich. I was sorry to hear this week of his passing. I was fortunate to meet him when we lived in Boston area while I was married to one of his H.S. classmates Jen Tratnyek. Always enjoyed visiting with you all. He was a great person and although he will be missed, he made a difference in the world to those who knew him. Thoughts and prayers to all of you during this sad time.

CyberQ Technologies meeting in person for the first time. Rich was the best "boss" and mentor.

Deepest sympathy to the family, Richard and I only worked together a short time, but I loved his big heart,  energy to solve challenges, and kind guidance.   He will be missed. CBL (Partners team @ Elastic)  

Rich was straight shooter who worked tirelessly to take action and deliver results. I will miss his contributions here at Elastic, and his ability to transform challenges into achievements.  My heartfelt condolences to Lisa and the entire family.

I got to work with Rich at Splunk and he was absolutely brilliant and endlessly kind.  I love hearing about what a character he was in his personal life as well!  He will be missed. Godspeed, Rich!

Rich was my brother and best friend. I love him and miss him terribly. We spoke at least every week and I got to spend more time at his home since we moved here in summer 2023. I am devastated and will share my longer thoughts after the Sunday gathering. Love you my friend!  Here 100% for Lisa and family. 

I realize the Richard has already lived a lifetime before he and I met, although I knew we were friends, I don't actually know if our families knew how close we were. I adored Richard. 

Richard was an extraordinary colleague who defied expectations from the moment we first met. In February 2017, he tracked me down at RSA and convinced me to interview him - a bold move that resulted in his hiring less than six weeks later, bucking the trend, something he would continue to do.

Richard consistently took on the most challenging assignments at Splunk. He had an uncanny ability to manage difficult customers and complex products, always finding a way to keep both the client and the business satisfied. His true passion, however, was mentoring. He generously invested time in young professionals, believing in their potential and helping them grow.

Richard always had a "great idea" which always was followed by, "put me in charge of it." He was an owner and he believed in himself and always had the confidence that he would be successful where others had failed.

It was no surprise to me when Richard started his own company and decided to take on junior career employees and train them from the ground up. Richard was able to take his passion for cybersecurity, mentoring young people and being a leader to start a business. I think it was a huge success. 

Even after our professional paths diverged, Richard maintained our friendship through weekend phone calls. He would enthusiastically share stories about his family - his wife, his children, and sometimes even random life hacks like cleaning Le Cuesset cookware.

Richard was more than a colleague; he was a mentor and a friend. His passing leaves a void that cannot be easily filled, and I will deeply miss our conversations and his extraordinary spirit.

Although I've only known Rich for about a year+, he was always so supportive at work (Elastic).   He welcomed people in and made everyone feel good.    Last week he kindly offered his time to go meet with one of our partners because they lived in the same town in Dunstable.   He offered to buy lunch for them, break bread & get to know them.    He will be missed by so many.   My deepest condolences to Lisa & the kids.    

Rich was a great boss (a word he didn’t like), a great mentor and a greater friend. I am lucky and grateful that I’ve known him. He always saw the best in people and many times would push you to the limits just to show you that you can do it.

My condolences to the family and may his soul rest in peace.

My condolences to Richard's family. I met Rich during our engagement with an interview he conducted for a job.  I initially thought this man was the coolest guy I ever met after we were done.  Rich is a dear friend and one of the most influential people in my life.  The most influential in my chosen career field, and for this, I wanted to be just like Rich.  He showed me that you can be true to yourself in personality, be driven in your purpose, be full of life, and want to help people.  Rich always told it how it is with everything coming from a place of love.  He gave me an example to be like, to mimic in many ways, and the words he spoke reside in me daily as the remembrance of the man who cared and loved like no other I encountered.  He is one of my best friends, and I related with him so much that in my heart, he was the big brother I needed in my life.  Rich was always encouraging, loving, fun, and the coolest guy in the room.  A man full of life.  He is a man I will always remember to give my best and to strive for the best in my daily work.  I am forever grateful to this GREAT MAN and will honor his legacy.    Cheers to the LEGEND, that I got to say I was mentored by, for his impression on this world will never be forgotten.  

While Richard and I were chatting last Thursday, he shared the following with me:...I have owned probably 25 914s...before people made aftermarket parts...i bought them and stripped them for parts...now i have 4 whole cars...two run, two are in que

i enjoy fixing cars...its a 3D puzzle for me

i built and rebuilt my first 914 a few times now...4th motor

i raced it for years

my oldest son and I restored a 71 VW beetle that was his highschool car

my second son...we restored a 71 914, he painted that purple

wrecked that purple one...got another one

I fell into a 64 beetle...project

i love aircooled. and i have a full shop, welders etc

my favorite part is building the engines...but using knowledge we have learned over the last 30 years....so I can get 180hp from a little 4 cylinder

......I have 4 kids...all having great lives now...and they all know how to fix things, build things, repair houses etc etc

and yes, I bought a 5k sqft barn that came with a house_________________________My condolences to the family.