Sherry Erickson Wed, Jul 9 2014 12:27 am

As a part of Cup of Water Players, in Southern California, I got to know "Dick" as a special friend. He was one of our cast members and a dedicated and fun actor/singer. I hated to see him leave for Virginia but knew that his loving family was there. My husband, Ken Erickson, died in 2009, also from cancer. I know the two of them have organized a performing group and are having so much fun singing and celebrating their Lord Jesus Christ!!!!

Donna Baranowski Tue, Jul 8 2014 9:52 pm

How do I know Richard's in heaven?? Because he chaperoned every girls trip we had in St. Joseph's from 1st grade to 8th grade and we were wild and crazy girls. He never raised his voice and I actually don't ever remember him being mad. I remember wishing my tough Marine Dad with the Brooklyn accent was more like Richard...or Papa F as I like to call him. He was patient and always smiling. I am so glad I reconnected with him in my later years....he became so much more inspirational and a treasure because I could finally appreciate him so much in my 40s rather than my pre-teens. I now realize what a gift he was and Susan and Steve and your families, you were so blessed to spend time with an angel on earth....can't wait to see him again. Put a good word in for me Papa F.....

Bill Reynolds Tue, Jul 8 2014 5:57 pm

We always loved it when Richard would join us Sunday nights at little MCC South Bay. He always made the little services much larger with his voice and praise and smiles.

Pat Boston Tue, Jul 8 2014 3:37 pm

Dick was part of a group I was with on a Mexican Riviera cruise in 1989. We spent a lot of time on the deck, enjoying the late night buffets and the music at all hours. His favorite saying was 'I've Fallen and I Can't Get Up' and would plant himself on the stairs of the ship. He was a great traveling friend and I will miss his Christmas letters, his emails and his friendship. I will see him in Heaven! Pat - British Columbia, Canada

Beth Nielsen Tue, Jul 8 2014 2:30 pm

The website is lovely...exactly what Richard would have wanted...filled with happiness and pictures and fond memories of how he touched each of our lives. He ALWAYS made me feel so very special. His words were like honey and filled with the sweetest compliments. I know Jesus is giving him a great big high 5 for his work here and the many people he made smile a bit longer and laugh a bit harder. RIP dear friend.

Patricia Edie Tue, Jul 8 2014 2:09 pm

What a beautiful tribute to such a beautiful man! His heart was as big and open as the smile he wore!I have many memories of him from the years in Hawthorne, CA raising our children.

Michael Deselms Tue, Jul 8 2014 12:55 pm

Really missing his sweet face. Miss those hugs.

Reverend Deb Coggin Tue, Jul 8 2014 12:08 pm

Richard was a wonderful man. He blessed us every time he visited Vision of Hope. We will miss him and always remember his beautiful smile and laugh. Blessings...Pastor Deb

Betty W. Taylor Tue, Jul 8 2014 10:52 am

Such a tragedy to lose such a loving man. With you in love and prayers for peace and comfort in your loss.

Mary Viscetto Tue, Jul 8 2014 10:32 am

I met Dick at MCC Long Beach Over 20 years ago...loved him and his zest for life, always smiling and ready with a big hug. I will miss you my friend, until we meet again xoxo

Ben Constable Tue, Jul 8 2014 7:49 am

What a gift from God it is to have spent my first three years in Williamsburg as a friend of Richard's...and what an incredible friend he was to me! His heart for others, glowing smile, and welcoming spirit inspired me greatly while I was blessed to be around him, and I hope he knew how much he meant to all of us at Relevant Church (especially those of at William and Mary)! Though I miss him greatly, it is so encouraging to think of the joy he is currently experiencing with Jesus - can't wait to join my friend and receive the big hug that will, undoubtedly, greet me with!

David Phillips Tue, Jul 8 2014 6:38 am

We. Met at mcc in long beach from day one he made me feel like we known each other forever it was a pleasure to have kept in touc h with him since we both had left CA. He will be missed love ya dick

Kay Lee Tue, Jul 8 2014 2:31 am

I barely knew Richard, but felt like I had know him forever. Truly one of a kind, wonderfully sweet man that I will always know as "momma" because of his nurturing loving manner.

Scott Sellars Tue, Jul 8 2014 12:43 am

I shared the stage with Richard in several musicals in the late 80's and early 90's. He was a delight to be around. My first show out of high school was South Pacific. I was 18 and knew nothing of theater. He was funny and helpful. I will miss him dearly.

Lori Tue, Jul 8 2014 12:40 am

Unkie, you were such a special person. I'll always remember thanksgiving one year-and things weren't going as smoothly as they should have. You made us all laugh when you were the one who had a situation. Your humor was contagious and you always had a smile on your face. You were a very special Uncle. I know you're joking around and entertaining up there. Til I see you again, RIP. I love you- Lori