Hail The Traveler

Love is not linear

Richard, the guy that everyone wanted to know or to be, the compassionate musician, fierce defender of the weak, unparalleled father, stepfather, grandfather, and great grandfather, and the sweetest most beloved man of my life passed today, January 28, 2024. He shed his mortal coil after 85 years.

He could read people with incredible accuracy. He wanted to spend his retirement making furniture pieces, of which he made many. He cajoled me into learning French so he could take me to Europe on a date. He laughed at my German which he said was “not how his mother spoke it.”

He was a printer for a major part of his life, and people loved working for him because he was fun and fair. He helped me through the aftermath of my son’s death and I did the same for him several years later.

But most of all Rich loved. He loved his family and held them close. He loved me in an uncanny way that only rarely happens in real life..and I loved him back just as deeply.

Rich loved his life.

The world will never be the same without his unique presence. He was the sun in his freely given warmth, he was the moon in his quiet ways. He will be missed forever.. until we find each other again.

A Note From Philip

This was written by Rich’s wife, Deb, just after Rich passed. The love these two share is indeed rare and beautiful. When Rich left on his journey his wife Deb texted “Our love has transitioned” yet all of their love is still here. Eventually, when Deb heads out to rejoin him, their love will still be here as assuredly as it will remain with them. Pure and all-encompassing, it will exist as a haven and comfort for all who have known them. May Deb’s words find homes in other hearts as well. I love you sis.

*Philip wrote the subtitle, everything else is Deb’s. Published with Deb’s permission.