Stunned and saddened to learn of Dick’s passing. A wonderful childhood friend indeed! I see from the posts that I should call him Richard now but as children I only called him Richard whenever he called me Bill. Like David Lyons I remember his family moving into the neighborhood and how his house became the center of many great times. I certainly enjoyed his company throughout our school and college days. More than most people I remember the animals in people’s lives and I am gladdened to see his family has some wonderful canine companions. For those who didn’t know Dick as a child I will always cherish the memory, among a great many, of his crazy dog “Snoopy” who could drag his doghouse all over the yard. He was always a positive influence when we were kids and obviously a person who in his adult life made the world a better place. My condolences to both family and friends with the prayer that soon the pain will subside you will be left with only the cherished memories of Richard.
It breaks my heart to learn of Dick’s passing. He was one of the neighborhood boys that I knew well growing up. I remember him as kind, smart and good natured - an easy person to like and respect. My heart goes out to his family as you learn to live with his loss. I wish you peace.
What a glorious and glorifying memorial service. Incredible eulogy given by Lexi . I’ll never listen to Amy Grant’s classic, My Father’s Eyes without thinking of Richard and Lexi. He was a faithful teacher of his children, as evidenced by the erudite, winsome and honoring eulogy Lexi gave. Sharon, my friend, what a marriage! My heart breaks for your loss. Trusting in our good shepherd’s care of you, His beloved daughter. What a privilege it was to be among the throng of those who wanted to honor and love you all.
For several years now, I partnered with Richard facilitating IP Leadership workshops. I will always remember and appreciate his energy, encouragement and genuine passion to help leaders in their role. He touched countless lives, and I praise God I’m one of them. May He give you peace in this tragic loss.
Sharon, my heart goes out to you and your family. As someone who has lost close friends and a son, I will pray for you. I wish I could be there to comfort you in this time, but since I cannot, I will pray that the God of all comfort will strengthen and sustain you. I also pray that your family and friends are there to support you as well.
Wow what an incredible gentleman! In my 32 years at IP, most of which as a manager, Richard was without a doubt the best HR leader I worked with, always willing to see all sides of every situation... Every interaction with Richard always left you with a positive feeling and a smile... The Obituary description is the Man I knew, and what an Awesome One! I'm very sorry for your loss, but know Richard's work for the Lord continues on...
Dear Sharon, Lexi, and Jeffrey, We send our heartfelt condolences and prayers to you after hearing the news about Richard. We just had your family on our mind the other day and said we wondered how and where you are right now. So sorry we have not made a connection in all these years but thankful we have some wonderful memories of days in Texas and Roanoke Rapids, raising our kids and spending time together. Those are memories we will always cherish. We will hold you close in prayer now and in the coming days . May God grant you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Love , Bob, Lisa, John, Ben, and Will Patterson
Sharon, Lexi and Jeffrey, We were so sad to learn of Richard's passing. We remember him so fondly as a kind and steady force during those crazy soccer years!! He was a remarkable man and I know he will be greatly missed. Know that you are in our prayers as you grieve.
Sharon, Becky and I were shocked when we learned, yesterday, that Richard left this life. We remember him with great fondness and will pray for you, Lexi and Jeffrey. Before i retired, I always looked forward to catching up with Richard in the morning on football and family. He loved to talk about his children. He was a team player and I was glad to have him on our team at IP. We know we will be reunited with him for all of eternity as we worship, sing and work together for our Savior.
Sharon, I just want to tell you I am so sorry for you loss. After reading your husbands obituary my understanding is : He was first a man of God second a wonderful and loving husband and father. Again I am sorry for your loss and Shannon and I will be praying for you and your family. In Christian Love, Gary and Shannon Highfield
Richard and his family moved to Medway, Ohio in 1967 and from the minute, I met Richard, he became a close friend and confidant. His home was a magnet for all of the neighborhood kids. His large side yards were the home for football, baseball and countless other games. After school and summer days were often spent there. Richard was a natural leader, often the final arbiter of disputed calls during our games. Richard and his best friend Chip(Walt) Saxe from his previous home in Huber Heights and I spent an exhilarating week at Camp Miami, a United Methodist Church Camp in Germantown, Ohio. It was the first time, I believe either of us were at an organized stay-over camp. Richard and I spent many years together in the Boy Scouts, both of us being Patrol Leaders and often competing or collaborating on various projects. We were both very active in the various outings, Summer/Winter troop campouts and Spring/Fall Camporees. Although our greatest Scouting adventure was hiking over 100 miles at the Philmont Scout Ranch in the Southern Rockies of New Mexico. We both were avid readers, completing several series of books, always discussing the plots and characters. Those books provided for great discussions! We also enjoyed long bicycle rides on our 10-speed English Racers, riding to many locations such as Yellow Springs or Springfield. This was a time when 14-15 year old kids could take off on their bikes, enjoy the freedom of a beautiful summer day without Any fear, just the beauty and thrill of the moment. I especially remember riding to the Upper Valley Mall to watch a double feature, two Bond movies, Thunderball and Live and Let Die. The memories are many and often poignant and I can truthfully say with out hesitation, there was never a harsh word between us. After we graduated from Tecumseh High School in 1977, our paths diverged and we saw much less of each other. But those very important days growing up together, were very important and are never to be forgotten. Rest in peace, Richard.
Sharon, Mike and I give our deepest sympathy to you and your children. May the Lord above guide you thru the hours without your wonderful friend and husband. Love, Mike and Gloria Faber.