Dick was a very special person in my life. He was someone I looked up to, and who reinforced my own technical hunger. And he was a strong example of how to be a person who lived a strong Faith at the same time. He taught me that those do not have to conflict. At times I thought of him as my "second dad", and one who I felt more comfortable being around. At 67 I still carry around presents that he made for me. I can recall two: one was a Morse Code Practice kit that he gave me for Christmas when I was in high school, and the other from the "Vermont Years when he gave me(and Margie) a simple breakfast tray he made. Both were hand made and both were from the heart. I learned to drink Coffee Black from him, and Joined the Navy because of him. I have never regretted it! I miss him so much that I could not even face it for the last 3 years!  Thanks, Dick for being there.

Dick always seemed happy! He was joyful, I should say. I loved going to visit the Bates's because they were so warm and welcoming. He loved Jesus and it certainly showed in his life. Dick and Mark had a special relationship, and I am so thankful for what a role model Dick was for him. I imagine Dick reunited now with his Mom and Dad, Ed and Mom (Betsy);he's cracking jokes!

Dick was a character! Never a dull moment when he was around. He had a unique sense of humor embedded in a spiritual nature that I admired. Jane and I looked for opportunities to visit because it was always an uplifting experience. He will be missed!

I remember the first time I met Dick when Sara introduced him to me as 'Uncle Dick' and he has been 'Uncle Dick' to me ever since. He was always warm and welcoming to me, even initially as an outsider to the family... just like his sister Betty. I always felt welcome... he cared. There are few I respect as much as I do Dick. I will always miss him and cherish his memory.

There was always excitement in the air when I knew that our family would be seeing your family...whether at Coolidge State Park or Vermont or Connecticut. Dick always made me feel appreciated and loved. The same feeling that his sister, my Mom, gave to all who visited us--must be a family trait-and a wonderful one to have and pass on.