I met Richard in 1986 in Tampa, Florida. He was 38 and had already lived a very full life.
Growing up in Kansas City, Kansas, he always spoke fondly of his very happy childhood and wonderful family. He had both farming and city life in his young world.
As a teenager, he learned to appreciate and love cars. His father taught him the engineering skills that allowed him and his buddies to work and build on their favorite automotive hobbies.
That was something we had in common throughout our life together.
The military played a large role in his life. His father was a Navy man, as was Richard. His brother served in the Army. Richard served on the USS Forrestal for many years. And in 1962 his carrier picked up astronauts from the Mercury mission. MA-7. I have to believe this began his love and respect for space exploration.
After his service in the Navy ended, he entered the professional world of the beauty industry. An unusual transition at best, some might say!
Richard worked in the distribution, education, management, supply, and sales in professional beauty for over 35 years. He was very instrumental in launching some of the largest and most respected companies in the beauty industry that are still with us today. Redken, Sebastian, and Command Performance, to name a few..
Richard loved life! His family, friends, dogs, cars, travel, music, fishing, and, luckily, me!
Richard was very talented in engineering and construction, thanks again to his dad. He was so patient and could draw and construct just about anything.
He was a very kind, loyal, and caring man. Richard gave me the most wonderful life I could have ever dreamed of!
Thank you, honey!
