BetterMost, Wyoming & Brokeback Mountain Forum

Our BetterMost Community => BetterMost People => Topic started by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 11:02:44 am

Title: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 11:02:44 am
Hiya Brokies.

I'm coming here with sad news, and I'm trying to figure out the most gentle way to say this, especially since I don't have all the details yet.


I just got off the phone with Gene.  For those of you who don't know, Gene is Rich's (LoneLeeB3) partner.  There was an event this weekend that they were both attending, I  believe it was a riding event.

Rich suffered a hard fall and blow to the head.  He is currently on life-support.  Gene is keeping him on life support until all of Rich's family can get to the hospital and say good-bye.

Miracles do happen, so prayers are appreciated, however, the general belief is that Rich will not survive past this afternoon.

Gene said he will call me with news as soon as he has it, and I will send it out to the Brokies.

I'm praying for you, Big Brother!




(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/SF%20Castro%20Bbm/SFCastroBBM070.jpg)


Update:  As of 6:06 PM this evening 7/31/2010, Rich passed away.  His partner Gene was with him, holding him.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on July 31, 2010, 11:28:44 am
May there be peace for all his family. May there be peace for him. I wish I could save you.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: southendmd on July 31, 2010, 11:40:31 am
I can hardly bear this. 

My thoughts are with Bizzy, Gene, the boys and Rich's family. 

Just yesterday, Rich posted "The Maker Makes" on facebook, saying, "I love this song! Don't know why but it was heavy on my mind this morning."

I love you guys.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 11:43:17 am
OMG!!!!!!!!!!!!

I wish I could save him too.

 :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 11:47:59 am
I spoke to Rich & Gene on the phone Thursday night.  Rich was in great spirits and looking forward to this weekend.

He spoke to me about my diet, and he wanted to try it, but didn't have the time to get to the store for the book.

I purchased an extra copy of the book, and sent it with a card of encouragement yesterday afternoon.

Now all I can think of is that he won't see it, and Gene will get the package.

 :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 11:53:00 am
I spoke to Rich & Gene on the phone Thursday night.  Rich was in great spirits and looking forward to this weekend.

He spoke to me about my diet, and he wanted to try it, but didn't have the time to get to the store for the book.

I purchased an extra copy of the book, and sent it with a card of encouragement yesterday afternoon.

Now all I can think of is that he won't see it, and Gene will get the package.

 :'(

God.  In the link of an eye....................

My heart breaks for his loved ones.

I didn't get the chance to go see his cow and calf operation.

 :'(

I was waiting until it got cooler.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 11:56:38 am
Oh my god, oh my god, oh my god, please please no. Rich - dont you dare leave us, you hear me from across the pond?

I just saw his "Happy Friday!!" post on facebook about 30 mins ago... so full of life.. and then this.

Please keep us updated Chuck.





Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 11:58:48 am
My mind simply rejects to believe this.

Please somebody, anybody tell me there has been a a mistake. Please

O my god. please no
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: SFEnnisSF on July 31, 2010, 12:02:41 pm

I feel sick...  :(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 12:03:01 pm
As soon as I have updates, I will post them to the thread.  Unless Truman gets them first, and then he'll update them.

I've been calling Brokies most of the morning, specifically those who met and knew Rich closely.

The phone call to Matt (ZK) was hard.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 12:05:03 pm
I feel sick...  :(

So do I... 

I was so excited that he was thinking of coming to NYC in September and I'd finally be able to give him a huge bear hug.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 12:08:35 pm
This can't be. I was PMing with Rich on FB two or three days ago talking about that we still haven't managed to meet FTF yet, but promising each other we would one day.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: milomorris on July 31, 2010, 12:12:01 pm
Wow. Life certainly is a fragile thing.

I will keep them in my prayers.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 12:14:18 pm
This is so unfair.

I remember talking to Richard when he first came on BM.  He was so lost and lonely.

He reached out to all of us here, and he touched all of our hearts in many ways.

We had many talks on the phone, through many good and bad times for both of us.

He found his soulmate, and was so happy that all his fears of coming out to his family were baseless, because, they love him.

We laughed, and cried together on the phone.

I just feel devasted by the thought of him no longer being here.

I just can't wrap my head around this.

Damn

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 12:15:05 pm
I'm praying, too. Which is strange for me, but

words fail me I'm crying and praying
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Meryl on July 31, 2010, 12:21:05 pm
I'm praying with all of you.  Thank you so much, Chuck, for letting me know before I logged in to see this sad news.

Dear Rich, peace, strength and serenity be yours and your dear ones'.  You are in our hearts and minds always.  We are all blessed to know and love you.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Ellemeno on July 31, 2010, 12:21:43 pm
Rich, you've had such a loving spirit for so many.  We have a loving spirit for you, Bud.

Love, Clarissa

Thank you for letting us know, Chuck.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: dejavu on July 31, 2010, 12:36:40 pm
As soon as I have updates, I will post them to the thread.  Unless Truman gets them first, and then he'll update them.

I've been calling Brokies most of the morning, specifically those who met and knew Rich closely.

The phone call to Matt (ZK) was hard.

I was just thinking about how Matt must feel.

This is terrible news.  My prayers for Rich and Gene and for all the friends and family.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 12:40:00 pm
 :'(

God keep you close to His heart, Rich, and Elizabeth, too, and all who love and care for you.

 :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 12:40:43 pm
I have spoken with Paul, Devony, and Wulfie on the phone.

It is really hard to find words for how sorry I am.  Or I guess the Brokie way to say it is "I sure am sorry/We was good friends."

I have such good memories of Rich.  He loved his daughter so much, and he was making a good life for himself - maybe one of the only one of us to have an actual little cow and calf horse operation.  And he rodeoed some too.

I keep thinking about how we get together for our gatherings and share laughter and tears and our love for one another.

But Annie Proulx was spot on - we go back to our separate and difficult lives - those times between halcyon moments - and while there ANYTHING can happen.

Life is too short and Rich too young.

Bless your family, Rich.  I hope we're able to stay in touch with them and that they know what you mean to us.

 :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(


P.S.  Paul - thank you for the banner - that's a terrific picture you found.

I love you all.


I saw those FB posts too...and Chuck - that just breaks my heart that Gene will get that package.  But I am so happy that you spoke with them last night.

That's a good thing.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: SFEnnisSF on July 31, 2010, 12:51:47 pm
 :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on July 31, 2010, 12:52:07 pm
On Thursday Gene put on fb how he was looking forward to the weekend with the love of his life.

I am so glad I sent him a message yesterday that I was so glad Rich was the love of his life because he certainly deserved someone to love him like that. I think about saying or doing things like that and it slipps my mind and its too late.

I think about how he called me earlier this week, or was it last week? We talked so long and it was so good and we laminted not seeing each other since 2008 and pined for the days we did think nothing about hopping on a plane and flying to California! OMG, all these things are lining up like signs in the rear view mirror.

Damn. All those years he had, they had, his daughter had with him. All those years gone now. Chuck if you get more details about what happened please let me know so I can try and make some sense on this.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 12:55:30 pm
Chuck if you get more details about what happened please let me know so I can try and make some sense on this.

There is no sense to be made of things like this.  :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on July 31, 2010, 12:58:52 pm
There is no sense to be made of things like this.  :'(

I know, there is no answer to why, but the who what when and where helps.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on July 31, 2010, 01:00:28 pm


(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/BBMLinesVisualized/BrokieBrunch/JeffRich.jpg)



(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/BBMLinesVisualized/BrokieBrunch/RichJohn.jpg)



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23836;image)



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23838;image)



(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/BBMLinesVisualized/BrokieBrunch/Richandme.jpg)



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23854;image)



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23820;image)



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23822;image)



(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/BBMLinesVisualized/BrokieBrunch/JeffRichChuckMatt.jpg)


From:
http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,31516.0.html
NYC Brokie Dinner/Gathering 2/13/09 Out of town guests arriving!
by CellarDweller




the very last two posts in the long ago thread:


It was a womderful time!
Getting to meet Jeff, John, Meryl, Kelly And everyone else was an honor and a pleasure!
Yet another memory stored deep in my heart!
Who would have thought a story about two cowboys would bring so many people together!
Like I always say, "Thank you Ennis for showing me the way"  ;D

Well a hell of a weekend, wasn't it?  ;D
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 01:05:56 pm
Great pics..

 :'( :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 01:06:19 pm
Oh God, what horrible, dreadful news!! I feel like I'm going to vomit. :'( :'(

I'm sitting here hoping and praying for a miracle. Rich was ALWAYS so nice to me. He was always so nice to everyone. Please God, let him get better!! :'( :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 01:07:49 pm
I know, there is no answer to why, but the who what when and where helps.

Sure enough.

This isn't right.  :(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 01:08:09 pm
The pics
 :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on July 31, 2010, 01:08:43 pm



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23822;image)





From:
http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,31516.0.html
NYC Brokie Dinner/Gathering 2/13/09 Out of town guests arriving!
by CellarDweller

There will never be another.

When I woke this morning I could hear the phone beep and I knew I had a message, but I didn't get to it right away. His mother had called me but it was staticy and I couldn't understand her. There had been a call from Rich's phone too and texted back "r u ok?" because the call had been at like 6 in the morning.

Gene called me back and he could hardly talk and he told me and managed to get out that Rich had told him if anything had ever happened to him he needed to let me know "So I'm doing what he asked"

ogod ogod ogod
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 01:11:43 pm
There will never be another.

When I woke this morning I could hear the phone beep and I knew I had a message, but I didn't get to it right away. His mother had called me but it was staticy and I couldn't understand her. There had been a call from Rich's phone too and texted back "r u ok?" because the call had been at like 6 in the morning.

Gene called me back and he could hardly talk and he told me and managed to get out that Rich had told him if anything had ever happened to him he needed to let me know "So I'm doing what he asked"

ogod ogod ogod

 :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(

Alway thinking of others...

((((Tru))))))
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 01:12:36 pm
(((Truman)))
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on July 31, 2010, 01:13:12 pm


Reprise.



(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/BBMLinesVisualized/BrokieBrunch/JeffRichChuckMatt.jpg)



From:
http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,31516.0.html
NYC Brokie Dinner/Gathering 2/13/09 Out of town guests arriving!
by CellarDweller




the very last two posts in the long ago thread:


It was a womderful time!
Getting to meet Jeff, John, Meryl, Kelly And everyone else was an honor and a pleasure!
Yet another memory stored deep in my heart!
Who would have thought a story about two cowboys would bring so many people together!
Like I always say, "Thank you Ennis for showing me the way"  ;D



Well a hell of a weekend, wasn't it?  ;D


Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Meryl on July 31, 2010, 01:18:16 pm
Oh man, those pictures bring it all home.  :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: southendmd on July 31, 2010, 01:21:10 pm
Don Wroe's cabin, September 2008, Fairstone Park, VA.  I had given Rich this Tshirt as a joke. 

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/don%20wroe%202/donwroe2richpaul.jpg)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: pnwDUDE on July 31, 2010, 01:22:46 pm
How can this happen to such a wonderful man who finally found his great life ? It's not fair.

Brad
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 01:24:01 pm
Chuck if you get more details about what happened please let me know so I can try and make some sense on this.


As soon as I hear anything, I promise I will post it on here and DCF.

God, I'm such a wreck right now.

If you've sent me a PM, please don't think I'm ignoring you.  I just don't have any more information at the moment, and I don't want to make a bad situation worse by saying something that may not be true.

As soon as I hear from Gene, I will post the information.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on July 31, 2010, 01:24:51 pm



Rich sent me a real (snail-mail!) Christmas Card last December, and I was so touched. This is what was printed in the card:

A COWBOY'S CHRISTMAS PRAYER
By S. Omar Barker (1894-1985)

I ain't much good at prayin', and You may not know me, Lord-
I ain't much seen in churches where they preach Thy Holy Word,
But you may have observed me out here on the lonely plains,
A-lookin' after cattle, feelin' thankful when it rains,
Admirin' Thy great handiwork, the miracle of grass,
Aware of Thy kind spirit in the way it comes to pass
That hired men on horseback and the livestock we tend
Can look up at the stars at night and know we've got a friend.

So here's ol' Christmas comin' on, remindin' us again
Of Him whose coming brought good will into the hearts of men.
A cowboy ain't no preacher, Lord, but if You'll hear my prayer,
I'll ask as good as we have got for all men everywhere.
Don't let no hearts be bitter, Lord.
Don't let no child be cold.
Make easy beds for them that's sick and them that's weak and old.
Let kindness bless the trail we ride, no matter what we're after,
And sorter keep us on Your side, in tears as well as laughter.

I've seen ol' cows a-starvin, and it ain't no happy sight:
Please don't leave no one hungry, Lord, on thy good Christmas night-
No man, no child, no woman, and no critter on four feet-
I'll aim to do my best to help You find 'em chuck to eat.

I'm just a sinful cowpoke, Lord-ain't got no business prayin'-
But still I hope You'll ketch a word or two of what I'm sayin':
We speak of Merry Christmas, Lord-I reckon you'll agree
There ain't no Merry Christmas for nobody that ain't free.
So one thing more I'll ask You, Lord: Just help us what you can
To save some seeds of freedom for the future sons of man.

Merry Christmas, everyone, and good night.
 


I've got to go and cry in the shower now.

This is too much.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: SFEnnisSF on July 31, 2010, 01:26:46 pm

Can someone please help me find the picture of me and Rich at the Fort Lauderdale rodeo??
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 01:27:32 pm
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Don%20Roe%20Cabin%20Weekend/DonWroesCabinPart2036.jpg)



Rich & Truman

From September 2008, Fairystone State Park, VA
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 01:28:18 pm
I just sent a text to Gene to let him know that between Tru and I, we've let the Brokies know about Rich, and that you are all praying and send your love to them.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 01:29:21 pm
Can someone please help me find the picture of me and Rich at the Fort Lauderdale rodeo??

I'll see if i can find it.....did Rich post it?
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 01:29:28 pm
Rich and Lynne catching up.




(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Don%20Roe%20Cabin%20Weekend/DonWroesCabinPart2026.jpg)


From September 2008, Fairystone State Park, VA
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 01:31:26 pm
He sent me Jam all the way from the US and it was great.... very yummy with fruit in it I hadn't heard of.

I still have his christmas card from a few years ago. Cowboy boots with xmas decorations... I always meant to get it framed as it was a cute picture for xmas time. It'll be framed this year for sure.

(((Chuck ))))We dont think you're ignoring us...  :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* Thanks for letting Gene know we are thinking of him.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: SFEnnisSF on July 31, 2010, 01:35:21 pm
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/SF%20Castro%20Bbm/SFCastroBBM010.jpg)

From the 2007 Castro Screening/Rodeo get together.  :)

(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/SF%20Castro%20Bbm/SFCastroBBM107.jpg)

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 01:39:35 pm
Can someone please help me find the picture of me and Rich at the Fort Lauderdale rodeo??

I'm going and looking for them
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 01:41:10 pm
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/SF%20Castro%20Bbm/SFCastroBBM010.jpg)

From the 2007 Castro Screening/Rodeo get together.  :)

 :)

I was looking for this too but you beat me to it.  :-*

Still looking for more.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 01:43:31 pm
I remember that NYC visit so well.

Chuck, Rich, Matt and I in Chinatown.

So much fun.

I can't believe this happened. 

I just feel so damn bad.

 :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 01:46:06 pm
I'm still hoping... but if Rich doesn't come through this, his Dad will be waiting, I know it. With that cow and calf operation on the other side.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Brown Eyes on July 31, 2010, 01:49:19 pm

Wow, what absolutely terrible news. :(  :'( 

It's so hard to know what to say at times like this.  But of course my thoughts are with Rich and everyone who loved him.

Thanks for the phone message {{{Chuck}}}.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: louisev on July 31, 2010, 01:51:05 pm
I just got online again after moving this weekend... what a terrible tragedy.  My heart goes out to all of you and to Rich's partner on this inexplicable event.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 01:51:18 pm


Rich sent me a real (snail-mail!) Christmas Card last December, and I was so touched. This is what was printed in the card:

A COWBOY'S CHRISTMAS PRAYER
By S. Omar Barker (1894-1985)

I ain't much good at prayin', and You may not know me, Lord-
I ain't much seen in churches where they preach Thy Holy Word,
But you may have observed me out here on the lonely plains,
A-lookin' after cattle, feelin' thankful when it rains,
Admirin' Thy great handiwork, the miracle of grass,
Aware of Thy kind spirit in the way it comes to pass
That hired men on horseback and the livestock we tend
Can look up at the stars at night and know we've got a friend.

So here's ol' Christmas comin' on, remindin' us again
Of Him whose coming brought good will into the hearts of men.
A cowboy ain't no preacher, Lord, but if You'll hear my prayer,
I'll ask as good as we have got for all men everywhere.
Don't let no hearts be bitter, Lord.
Don't let no child be cold.
Make easy beds for them that's sick and them that's weak and old.
Let kindness bless the trail we ride, no matter what we're after,
And sorter keep us on Your side, in tears as well as laughter.

I've seen ol' cows a-starvin, and it ain't no happy sight:
Please don't leave no one hungry, Lord, on thy good Christmas night-
No man, no child, no woman, and no critter on four feet-
I'll aim to do my best to help You find 'em chuck to eat.

I'm just a sinful cowpoke, Lord-ain't got no business prayin'-
But still I hope You'll ketch a word or two of what I'm sayin':
We speak of Merry Christmas, Lord-I reckon you'll agree
There ain't no Merry Christmas for nobody that ain't free.
So one thing more I'll ask You, Lord: Just help us what you can
To save some seeds of freedom for the future sons of man.

Merry Christmas, everyone, and good night.
 


I've got to go and cry in the shower now.

This is too much.


He sent me one of those too John. I kept it. And inside he wrote - "Hey Cowboy! Hope you have a very Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2010! Come see me. You are always welcome. Love Rich."

:'( :'( :'(

He sent me a really sweet one the year before too. On the outside of the card it says "S'up Bud?" and one the inside it says "Just thinking of you." And then inside he wrote - "Friend, this letter is long overdue! I meant to send you a Christmas card, then a Valentines and they both passed me by. So, for what it's worth, I'm thinking of you and hope you're doing well. I smile and think of you each time I see an Indiana license plate! Maybe one day you'll be in one of those cars I see! Love, Richard. "

:'( :'( :'(

I have both those cards sitting right here! Oh God, I hope Rich will be okay!!!! :'(



Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 01:52:20 pm
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/SF%20Castro%20Bbm/SFCastroBBM087.jpg)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: dejavu on July 31, 2010, 01:59:47 pm


(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/BBMLinesVisualized/BrokieBrunch/JeffRich.jpg)



[imgwidth=350]http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/BBMLinesVisualized/BrokieBrunch/RichJohn.jpg[/img]
I still see Rich's picture often because my screen saver loops through all my NYC pictures, and many of the ones you posted come up on the screen.

 :(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 02:01:32 pm
(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10936.0;attach=14435;image)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 02:05:23 pm
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/SF%20Castro%20Bbm/SFCastroBBM017.jpg)

(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=10936.0;attach=14281;image)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on July 31, 2010, 02:08:18 pm
I have just spoken with Gene, and have been told the end is very near.

Rich is an organ donor, and as such a certain procedure must be followed. Gene said he is doing this because it is what Rich would have wanted.

Lets us all take some deep breaths, and if you pray, pray, or if you don't do what ever it is feels right.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 02:10:00 pm
Safe journey, Big Brother.

I'm gonna miss you like hell!
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 02:12:42 pm
I have just spoken with Gene, and have been told the end is very near.

Rich is an organ donor, and as such a certain procedure must be followed. Gene said he is doing this because it is what Rich would have wanted.

Lets us all take some deep breaths, and if you pray, pray, or if you don't do what ever it is feels right.

Oh God.

 :'(

As much as this hurt me, I just feel so damn bad for Gene, Elizabeth, the boys and Richards mom.

Why, why, why, why.................................
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Berit on July 31, 2010, 02:13:24 pm
I'm a seldome guest at BM now but this hit me really hard. Yesterday we sat, me and Monika, talking about all our friends all over the world and how this movie got us together. How we even had the plesure of seing people getting married. And now this....a friend, never met him but still a friend, figthing for his life....

My thoughts to Rich and all his loved ones.....and my love......so sad
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on July 31, 2010, 02:15:02 pm



   O dear God.  How can this be true....?   My dear boy.  I love you so much, and
always have, since the first time we talked.  You were so lost and alone in that
time.  Not knowing what to do with your life.  You made your choices, and you
made a new and wonderful choice for yourself.  You met a man that
loved and appreciated you.  The way that you deserved.  You had a great relationship
with your beautiful Bizzy.  Your new family fit together so perfectly.  I just am so
so sorry for all of them now.  They had the chance to find you, and realize what a
wonderful person you were.  What a great heart you had, and how sweet and loving
you were, all the way down inside.  I am happy that you found Gene and his boys
too.  It is just seemingly so unfair, that just to have found you, and now to have to
go through this.  We are all in such shock.  I can not really fathom it is real yet.  I
just guess i'll have to take it in in stages.  Please God let this too pass.  Mama
     
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Berit on July 31, 2010, 02:15:31 pm
Safe journey Rich!

Bless you for being a donator!
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 02:20:46 pm
I have just spoken with Gene, and have been told the end is very near.

Rich is an organ donor, and as such a certain procedure must be followed. Gene said he is doing this because it is what Rich would have wanted.

Lets us all take some deep breaths, and if you pray, pray, or if you don't do what ever it is feels right.

I my god, oh my god.


Rich, I'm thinking of you. I'm thinking of Gene, of Elisabeth, of the boys.  My thoughts are with you all.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 02:22:24 pm

As soon as I hear anything, I promise I will post it on here and DCF.

God, I'm such a wreck right now.

If you've sent me a PM, please don't think I'm ignoring you.

(((Chuck)))  :-*
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 02:27:17 pm
God bless, my sweet Patrick.

Auntie Mame's heart is broken.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Luvlylittlewing on July 31, 2010, 02:27:42 pm


(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/BBMLinesVisualized/BrokieBrunch/JeffRich.jpg)



(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/BBMLinesVisualized/BrokieBrunch/RichJohn.jpg)



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23836;image)



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23838;image)



(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/BBMLinesVisualized/BrokieBrunch/Richandme.jpg)



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23854;image)



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23820;image)



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23822;image)



(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/BBMLinesVisualized/BrokieBrunch/JeffRichChuckMatt.jpg)


From:
http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,31516.0.html
NYC Brokie Dinner/Gathering 2/13/09 Out of town guests arriving!
by CellarDweller




the very last two posts in the long ago thread:



OMG, I can't believe this!  But we can't give up hope and I'm praying for this beautiful man and his loved ones.  I've never met him I feel as though I know him.  Don't leave us, Rich!  :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: serious crayons on July 31, 2010, 02:31:41 pm
I'm so sorry to hear this unbelievable news.

I never met Rich in person, and truth to tell did not know him very well here. But my heart goes out to his loved ones, including all of you. I can get a sense from the photos of what a great friend he has been.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on July 31, 2010, 02:33:23 pm



He sent me one of those too John. I kept it. And inside he wrote - "Hey Cowboy! Hope you have a very Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2010! Come see me. You are always welcome. Love Rich."

:'( :'( :'(

He sent me a really sweet one the year before too. On the outside of the card it says "S'up Bud?" and one the inside it says "Just thinking of you." And then inside he wrote - "Friend, this letter is long overdue! I meant to send you a Christmas card, then a Valentines and they both passed me by. So, for what it's worth, I'm thinking of you and hope you're doing well. I smile and think of you each time I see an Indiana license plate! Maybe one day you'll be in one of those cars I see! Love, Richard. "

:'( :'( :'(

I have both those cards sitting right here! Oh God, I hope Rich will be okay!!!! :'(




Me too, David.
(http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j174/jmmgallagher/RichsChristmasCard.jpg)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 02:33:56 pm
I'm so sorry to hear this unbelievable news.

I never met Rich in person, and truth to tell did not know him very well here. But my heart goes out to his loved ones, including all of you. I can get a sense from the photos of what a great friend he has been.

A very great light is going out in the world.  :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 02:36:30 pm
I have just spoken with Gene, and have been told the end is very near.

Rich is an organ donor, and as such a certain procedure must be followed. Gene said he is doing this because it is what Rich would have wanted.

Lets us all take some deep breaths, and if you pray, pray, or if you don't do what ever it is feels right.

Bless him.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 02:36:55 pm
A very great light is going out in the world.  :'(

But at least all of us who ever knew him are richer for it.

(No pun intended. Not now. ...)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 02:37:32 pm
But at least all of us who ever knew him are richer for it.

(No pun intended. Not now. ...)

Yep, we are.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: fritzkep on July 31, 2010, 02:44:29 pm
Thinking of Rich and Gene, Truman, Paul, Chuck and all of his friends.

Was always hoping to get together sometime....

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: brianr on July 31, 2010, 02:59:01 pm
So sorry
Thinking and praying for you all
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 03:00:11 pm
My mind is completely consumed with this awful news. I can't think about anything else. I can't imagine how difficult this must be for all of you who actually met Rich and spent time with him!

:'( :'( :'(

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 03:09:00 pm
Waiting for the phone to ring is just so horrible.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 03:10:15 pm
Waiting for the phone to ring is just so horrible.

((((((Chuck)))))
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 03:11:29 pm
Waiting for the phone to ring is just so horrible.


Oh my God, Chuck!!!! :-* :-*

{{{{{{CHUCK}}}}}}}

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 03:12:58 pm
Waiting for the phone to ring is just so horrible.


Oh my.  {{{Chuck}}}
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 03:13:43 pm
I keep thinking about Rich's daughter and what she must be going through right now.

:'( :'( :'(

And poor Gene too!
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 03:14:34 pm
Can someone please help me find the picture of me and Rich at the Fort Lauderdale rodeo??


(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=7780.0;attach=25314;image)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: optom3 on July 31, 2010, 03:17:01 pm
Oh dear God, I cannot process this. I recall long pms we had and being over the moon, when he fought through and found love. I could not have been happier if it had been one of my blood family. He gave me hope too.
I am going now as the tears are streaming down my face. My love to all his friends and family and to all Brokies, who are going to have a great big empty space now. Chuck so desperately sorry at the role you are having to play in this, but from the bottome of my heart keep strong, please and thankyou for taking the time to let us know.
Oh fuck it, nothing I have written counts, it just all sucks big time.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Ellemeno on July 31, 2010, 03:18:11 pm
Roux sends lots of love.  She is away from internet.  I sent an email to LauraGigs and Phillip too.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 03:19:39 pm

(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=7780.0;attach=25314;image)

Great job Chrissi!

I was going through Rich's blog, but wasn't having any luck.  I'm glad you found it.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 03:32:56 pm
Great job Chrissi!

I was going through Rich's blog, but wasn't having any luck.  I'm glad you found it.


Took me over an hour to find it. But I was glad to look for it. Gave me the illusion of doing something when nothing can be done ........
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Ellemeno on July 31, 2010, 03:34:42 pm
(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h257/Ellemeno_2006/brokebackmtn_3575.jpg)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 03:34:42 pm
Took me over an hour to find it. But I was glad to look for it. Gave me the illusion of doing something when nothing can be done ........

I understand.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Meryl on July 31, 2010, 03:35:29 pm
Rich, I'm thinking of you and all of those who love you so much.  Bless you, friend.  I'm so glad we met.  Peace on your journey.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Ellemeno on July 31, 2010, 03:43:51 pm
Love to everyone.  Everyone.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 03:50:35 pm
Took me over an hour to find it. But I was glad to look for it. Gave me the illusion of doing something when nothing can be done ........

Oi. I know what you mean. ...  :(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Monika on July 31, 2010, 03:59:18 pm
I don´t know what write...
still I felt I had to write something.

Never met Rich but I loved looking at his pictures of the sweet life he seemed to have created for himself.
I´m crying and thinking about Rich and all you Brokies out there.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: dejavu on July 31, 2010, 04:00:00 pm
((((Chuck))))

I know this is so hard for you.


And I feel so bad for Elizabeth, too, Rich was such a devoted father.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 04:01:53 pm
Love to everyone.  Everyone.

Absolutely.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 04:02:17 pm
Gosh, you look at all the user names logged onto this thread, and it's like keeping vigil.  :(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 04:04:49 pm
Gosh, you look at all the user names logged onto this thread, and it's like keeping vigil.  :(

That's exactly what is. Know how much you are loved Rich.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 04:07:03 pm
Gosh, you look at all the user names logged onto this thread, and it's like keeping vigil.  :(

I hope he knew how much he was loved.

I was telling Kelda earlier about Virginia, and in our little cabin right before the election, Rich was pretty well the only conservative there, and how we declared there would be no politics intruding on our idyllic weekend.

And it didn't.  It should always be that way.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 04:12:49 pm
I hope he knew how much he was loved.

I just wrote on Chuck's blog, this sad day reinforces for me the lesson I learned when my mother died: Never EVER pass up an opportunity to say "I love you" to someone you love, because you never know when you might lose the possibility of saying it to him or her again.

Quote
I was telling Kelda earlier about Virginia, and in our little cabin right before the election, Rich was pretty well the only conservative there, and how we declared there would be no politics intruding on our idyllic weekend.

And it didn't.  It should always be that way.

Sure enough.

Lynne, the line under your avatar seems particularly good right now.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: SFEnnisSF on July 31, 2010, 04:13:13 pm

Took me over an hour to find it. But I was glad to look for it. Gave me the illusion of doing something when nothing can be done ........

Thank you for finding the picture Chrissi.  :-*
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 04:13:45 pm
Gosh, you look at all the user names logged onto this thread, and it's like keeping vigil.  :(

And it is comforting to see all those names up there too. Strength in numbers, or something like that. There's nothing we can do except to sit here, hope and pray.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shasta542 on July 31, 2010, 04:15:50 pm
Terrible, heart-breaking news. Rich and I never met in person, but we shared a lot of the same beliefs, and we PM'd them mostly. We have been talking since the old IMDb days. Wow. And not so much lately, but I kept up and knew that he was happier now than ever in his life.

He is a wonderful man--beautiful inside and out.

All consolation to Elizabeth, the light of his life, and to Gene, the love of his life.

Bless you Chuck, Truman, Paul, and all his friends and loved ones. I know you are devastated. As we all are that this has happened. I'm so sorry and will keep my prayers going up.


Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on July 31, 2010, 04:19:12 pm
 :'([youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUNUZUUmnIc[/youtube]
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Sason on July 31, 2010, 04:19:37 pm
Rich was one of the Brokies I still haven't met. And now I never will...

Never had any personal contact with him, but I know a lot about him from here,
and his story of finding love in his life and creating the sweet life together always touched me deeply.

Even more so now.

What a tragedy.

My heart goes out to his daughter, his partner, and all his family and friends, including all you Brokies who will miss him deeply.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: jstephens9 on July 31, 2010, 04:22:07 pm
I haven't been on the forum in awhile, but I have been on Facebook. I had just responded to Rich's Happy Friday on Facebook. I went on there and began reading things that I really did not want to read. My thoughts were instead to call Truman. I did and my worst fears of what I had read were true. Rich is an incredible and very special person. I will never forget meeting him in San Francisco and then communicating with him since then. At that time in his life he was very unhappy and confused about a lot of things. Then, as he so much deserved, he met and found true happiness with Gene. I have thought so many times about what a truly incredible life he had found. It was like that dream life that so many of us look for, but never find. I do feel so bad about not keeping in better touch with Rich. As I was telling Truman, there have been so many times I have thought about picking up the phone and giving him a call, but then something would come up and I wouldn't. I thought there was all the time in the world, but then things like this make us all realize that there truly isn't.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 04:23:11 pm
I just wrote on Chuck's blog, this sad day reinforces for me the lesson I learned when my mother died: Never EVER pass up an opportunity to say "I love you" to someone you love, because you never know when you might lose the possibility of saying it to him or her again.

...

Lynne, the line under your avatar seems particularly good right now.

{{{{Jeff}}}}  I love you.

I updated my FB with something similar to what you just posted.

Thank you about the quote.  I thought my avatar and quote needed an update for today.  I'm glad you like it.

The more I think about this, the more I am absolutely crushed.  I'm at work, supposed to be working, but I can't hold a coherent thought in my head.  And I don't think I've ever been so cold in my life.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 04:25:37 pm
Gosh, you look at all the user names logged onto this thread, and it's like keeping vigil.  :(

because that's all we can do right now.

God, I hope Rich knows how much we all loved him.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Monika on July 31, 2010, 04:26:33 pm
I haven't been on the forum in awhile, but I have been on Facebook. I had just responded to Rich's Happy Friday on Facebook. I went on there and began reading things that I really did not want to read. My thoughts were instead to call Truman. I did and my worst fears of what I had read were true. Rich is an incredible and very special person. I will never forget meeting him in San Francisco and then communicating with him since then. At that time in his life he was very unhappy and confused about a lot of things. Then, as he so much deserved, he met and found true happiness with Gene. I have thought so many times about what a truly incredible life he had found. It was like that dream life that so many of us look for, but never find. I do feel so bad about not keeping in better touch with Rich. As I was telling Truman, there have been so many times I have thought about picking up the phone and giving him a call, but then something would come up and I wouldn't. I thought there was all the time in the world, but then things like this make us all realize that there truly isn't.
  (((Jack)))
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 04:29:22 pm
because that's all we can do right now.

God, I hope Rich knows how much we all loved him.

I think he knows Chuck.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: SFEnnisSF on July 31, 2010, 04:32:36 pm

One thing I can't get out of my head, is that he posted the video to The Maker Makes yesterday morning on his Facebook page.  He said it was "heavy on his mind" yesterday morning.  Why did he post that?  ???  :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 04:35:14 pm
I saw that too.... the world works in very very mysterious ways.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: BayCityJohn on July 31, 2010, 04:35:47 pm
One thing I can't get out of my head, is that he posted the video to The Maker Makes yesterday morning on his Facebook page.  He said it was "heavy on his mind" yesterday morning.  Why did he post that?  ???  :'(

Maybe the same reason i posted this on FB yesterday:


Quote
Jack: There ain’t never enough time, never enough….

Thoughts of Brokeback Mountain were a trail mix left for another day. I meant to transcribe the mental notes at some point, but the day to day takes over and then…. Foolishly buying into the concept of time, we see no reason not to procrastinate, a surplus of tomorrows at our disposal. We mortgage opportunities in favor of fantasy. But just like that, a eulogy. As unexpected as any.

Quote
Ennis: If you can’t fix it, Jack, you gotta stand it.

To live with the knowledge that life is precious and short is a tricky enough proposal. But to then be reduced to just trying to endure it, to just stand it….

Regrets are in the ashes that are raining down forever; Forever, a fresh blanket of sadness that is always beyond words.

http://www.libraryofinspiration.com/film_2000s_brokebackmountain.htm (http://www.libraryofinspiration.com/film_2000s_brokebackmountain.htm)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: optom3 on July 31, 2010, 04:37:43 pm
I will continue to hope, while there is even the merest vestige of something to cling on to.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 04:42:48 pm
I just want to wrap my arms around Elizabeth and Gene.

 :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 04:42:56 pm
One thing I can't get out of my head, is that he posted the video to The Maker Makes yesterday morning on his Facebook page.  He said it was "heavy on his mind" yesterday morning.  Why did he post that?  ???  :'(

I wonder that too, Eric.  I think we know things sometimes and only make the connections in retrospect.

TMI - last night at 3 am I awoke and vomited.  (Truth - because I told Ronny about it earlier).  I thought it was anxiety and something I ate, but now I'm not so sure.

And there have been several nights of insomnia for no good reason where I find out that Mom is ill come morning.

 :-\ :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: milomorris on July 31, 2010, 04:43:06 pm
Gosh, you look at all the user names logged onto this thread, and it's like keeping vigil.  :(

It really is.

When a local Philadelphia opera singer named Angel Oramos passed away last month, his facebook page was flooded with hundreds of prayers, personal stories, pics, condolences to his family, etc. It went on for days. I think its great that we can use the technology to stay connected when it matters the most.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: BayCityJohn on July 31, 2010, 04:45:55 pm
I will continue to hope, while there is even the merest vestige of something to cling on to.

You bet!
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 04:46:45 pm
I wonder that too, Eric.  I think we know things sometimes and only make the connections in retrospect.

TMI - last night at 3 am I awoke and vomited.  (Truth - because I told Ronny about it earlier).  I thought it was anxiety and something I ate, but now I'm not so sure.

And there have been several nights of insomnia for no good reason where I find out that Mom is ill come morning.

 :-\ :'(

I was just telling Shasta that last night after I went to bed, I had this overwhelming feeling of dread, as if something terrible was about to happen. And I thought it was about my Dad. I thought maybe I was going to lose him. And I couldn't shake it off. I couldn't go to sleep. But now I'm wondering if maybe it was about Rich. :-\

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 04:50:30 pm
It really is.

When a local Philadelphia opera singer named Angel Oramos passed away last month, his facebook page was flooded with hundreds of prayers, personal stories, pics, condolences to his family, etc. It went on for days. I think its great that we can use the technology to stay connected when it matters the most.

You're right, Milo.  That is a blessing.  I can't imagine being here 'alone'.

I was just telling Shasta that last night after I went to bed, I had this overwhelming feeling of dread, as if something terrible was about to happen. And I thought it was about my Dad. I thought maybe I was going to lose him. And I couldn't shake it off. I couldn't go to sleep. But now I'm wondering if maybe it was about Rich. :-\


{{{{{David}}}}}

I love you.  And I'm proud of you, the way you care for your father, and countless other reasons.  You're a strong man.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: jstephens9 on July 31, 2010, 04:51:12 pm
I will continue to hope, while there is even the merest vestige of something to cling on to.

I have to say that I feel the same cause there still is something to cling on to. Miracles can and do happen. While Rich is still with us, there is that hope and for now I will follow that.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: fritzkep on July 31, 2010, 04:52:06 pm
It really is.

When a local Philadelphia opera singer named Angel Oramos passed away last month, his facebook page was flooded with hundreds of prayers, personal stories, pics, condolences to his family, etc. It went on for days. I think its great that we can use the technology to stay connected when it matters the most.

Amen.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 04:53:50 pm
I have to say that I feel the same cause there still is something to cling on to. Miracles can and do happen. While Rich is still with us, there is that hope and for now I will follow that.

Exactly what I said earlier to Lynne.

I'm praying. And I DON'T do that.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: optom3 on July 31, 2010, 04:56:04 pm
This is too weird, I had just finished texting Dev that I had taken double my meds last night, I was feeling very wound up but had no idea why. Then when I finally woke at 11.30 within minutes I get a call from Dev.Was my body telling me I would need real good sleep to deal with the next day, who knows.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 05:00:45 pm
Gosh, you look at all the user names logged onto this thread, and it's like keeping vigil.  :(


I keep looking at all those names for hours now.
It doesn't make me feel any less devastated. But at least it makes me feel less alone.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Sophia on July 31, 2010, 05:01:45 pm
I am so so sorry for everyone.  :'(  :'( :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 05:02:24 pm
I'm praying. And I DON'T do that.


Same here, as I said earlier.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: jstephens9 on July 31, 2010, 05:04:50 pm
I'm trying my best to find my pictures from San Francisco cause I know Rich is in them, but so far I have not had any luck. I've found the ones from every other trip I've been on, but not those. I keep my memory cards from each one so I will find them.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Berit on July 31, 2010, 05:08:42 pm

I keep looking at all those names for hours now.
It doesn't make me feel any less devastated. But at least it makes me feel less alone.


Yes.....
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Berit on July 31, 2010, 05:09:34 pm
I am so so sorry for everyone.  :'(  :'( :'(
Me too.......
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: SFEnnisSF on July 31, 2010, 05:12:14 pm
I'm trying my best to find my pictures from San Francisco cause I know Rich is in them, but so far I have not had any luck. I've found the ones from every other trip I've been on, but not those. I keep my memory cards from each one so I will find them.


Looking forward to seeing them Jack.  :)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Meryl on July 31, 2010, 05:14:01 pm
I've been going through the Heath Ledger grieving thread hoping to find the link to the website where we lit candles for him.

I came across Rich's post about Heath's passing.

I don't know where to begin or what to say.
So I'll just do the best I can.
To me Heath ledger will forever br Ennis DelMar. I said this the other day when there was mention of him playing GWB. I don't care where he is or what he is playing he will always be my Ennis. He is the reason me got here.
I saw Brokeback Mountain April 10th 2007. My life has been forever changed. I so strongly identified with
Ennis Del Mar at that time. had it not been for Heaths exceptional acting ability, the movie, the character may not have had the impact on me that it did. He showed me what my life would be like if I didn't make the changes. He showed me that we only get one shot and it shouldn't be filled with regret. Yes, Ennis Del Mar never existed other than on the screen but he existed because Heath Brought him to life. I will forever love him for that.
I have never cried when an actor died. Well maybe when John Wayne died but I was only 9yrs old.
He made an impact on my life! I will forever be grateful, I will forever love him for that.
God rest your soul sweet man! I hope you find peace and comfort in the next life.
Thank you for all you have given to me through your gift.
I love you.

I love you, too, Rich.  God rest your sweet soul.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 05:16:31 pm
I'm trying my best to find my pictures from San Francisco cause I know Rich is in them, but so far I have not had any luck. I've found the ones from every other trip I've been on, but not those. I keep my memory cards from each one so I will find them.

Did you post them in the thread?

http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,10936.msg213586.html#msg213586
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Marina on July 31, 2010, 05:17:52 pm
Oh my gosh - I just heard.   I am so sorry.   I never met Rich, but I did enjoy reading some of his posts and he seemed so happy in life.  Saying a prayer.   :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 05:19:04 pm
I've been going through the Heath Ledger grieving thread hoping to find the link to the website where we lit candles for him.


http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/enter.cfm?l=eng
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: TXdoug on July 31, 2010, 05:25:22 pm
 :'(
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: optom3 on July 31, 2010, 05:27:26 pm
I have lit a candle and am writing here what I wrote on face book. In the words of Proulx herself, I feel awful bad about (Rich) Can't begin to say how bad I feel.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Meryl on July 31, 2010, 05:29:06 pm

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/enter.cfm?l=eng

Thanks so much, Chuck.  I lit a candle and started a group: BBM.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: delalluvia on July 31, 2010, 05:30:21 pm
Am just shocked.  Such a sudden tragedy.

My thoughts are with Rich and those he loves and those who love him.

So sorry.  I enjoyed his posts.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on July 31, 2010, 05:34:01 pm
 :'(

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Marge_Innavera on July 31, 2010, 05:36:35 pm
I hadn't talked with Rich much, but he's part of our Brokie community and am so saddened by this news.  I've made a call to Silent Unity to include him in their prayers.  
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 05:38:05 pm
{{{{Jeff}}}}  I love you.

I updated my FB with something similar to what you just posted.

Oh, shucks, after all the occasions I've been cranky and given you good reason to dislike me. ...

Quote
Thank you about the quote.  I thought my avatar and quote needed an update for today.  I'm glad you like it.

It's a very helpful thought at a time like this.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 05:40:49 pm
Thanks so much, Chuck.  I lit a candle and started a group: BBM.

I can't seem to find the group for this candle deal, Meryl. How do I do it? I clicked on "groups" and I saw a group named "BGM" but not "BBM". Maybe it hasn't been loaded in yet. I'll keep checking. Thanks for doing this for us. :-*
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: fritzkep on July 31, 2010, 05:45:10 pm
Here's a direct link, David.

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=BBM

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 05:47:04 pm
Tell you what, something that I believe--another lesson I learned from my mother's death--is that people we love don't really leave us when they are taken from this life, because they live on in our hearts--because we love them--as long as we live on. Rich will always be with us in our hearts because we love him.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 05:49:33 pm
Oh, shucks, after all the occasions I've been cranky and given you good reason to dislike me. ...
....

You're just ornery - that's a likeable quality, mostly.   :-*
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Brokeback_Dev on July 31, 2010, 05:50:41 pm
Rich was so excited when he found out that Fiona and I were planning a visit to Atlanta. He was helping to plan for our weekendbut it never came to pass.  Lynne and I were in Atlanta and met Wayne but Rich couldnt make it. I felt so sad that he wouldnt be joining us. Then we were to go to the gay rodeo where he and gene were to partake duriing the Brokie Stampede.  That didnt happen either.  I have his "A Cowboy's Christmas Prayer" card sitting right her next to me.  Three different occasions I almost got to meet this handsome cowboy lonlebee3.  How wonderful the movie Brokeback is and all these message board especially for helping this man come out and then find true love.  He surely is a wonderful man that he is an organ donor.  Bless Rich, Biz, Gene, the boys, Truman, Lynne, Chuck, Eric and all of us becasue we were blessed to know him on Bettermost.  Im praying for sure.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 05:51:47 pm
Tell you what, something that I believe--another lesson I learned from my mother's death--is that people we love don't really leave us when they are taken from this life, because they live on in our hearts--because we love them--as long as we live on. Rich will always be with us in our hearts because we love him.

That's right Jeff.

I believe that our tears of sadness will one day be replaced with smiles from our memories of him.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 05:52:51 pm
Here's a direct link, David.

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=BBM



Oh, thank you Fritz!!! :-*

I'll give it another try here in a few minutes. :)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 05:55:36 pm
Tell you what, something that I believe--another lesson I learned from my mother's death--is that people we love don't really leave us when they are taken from this life, because they live on in our hearts--because we love them--as long as we live on. Rich will always be with us in our hearts because we love him.

I believe that too, Jeff.

And if Truman (and David?) are right, and I can't think of a time they haven't been, Rich will still be alive until his name is spoken for the last time.  We will keep him alive in our memories and our conversations.  And we'll tell people we know about him, and so forth...He will be remembered for ages to come.

Heck, Brokies aside, Elizabeth will keep him alive for generations upon generations.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: louisev on July 31, 2010, 06:02:14 pm
I lighted my candle - it is somehow very soothing to know that we all hold our fellow Brokies in our hearts in a special way, after all these years.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 06:05:37 pm
I've copied and pasted the link for candles onto DCF as well.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Mandy21 on July 31, 2010, 06:06:47 pm
There's no way this is happening.  There's just no way...
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on July 31, 2010, 06:08:01 pm
I believe that too, Jeff.

And if Truman (and David?) are right, and I can't think of a time they haven't been, Rich will still be alive until his name is spoken for the last time.  We will keep him alive in our memories and our conversations.  And we'll tell people we know about him, and so forth...He will be remembered for ages to come.

Heck, Brokies aside, Elizabeth will keep him alive for generations upon generations.

And his words, here, they will keep him alive. They will tell his story and when she is old enough Elizabeth will come here too and probably find some answers.

If that is the case, see if we are still around dear Bizzy, if we are not part of your world, you are welcome amongst your fathers friends.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: southendmd on July 31, 2010, 06:08:21 pm
Thanks for all the kind words.  Those of us who were fortunate to know Rich will never forget him.  

I suspect Rich has no regrets.  He gave us a sense of hope.  He identified with Ennis, and used to fear Ennis's fate.  There would be no lonely trailer #17 for him; he had the sweet life.  It was such a joy seeing and sharing that with him.  

My heart goes out to all of us.  
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 06:11:13 pm
And his words, here, they will keep him alive. They will tell his story and when she is old enough Elizabeth will come here too and probably find some answers.

If that is the case, see if we are still around dear Bizzy, if we are not part of your world, you are welcome amongst your fathers friends.

You are so right, Truman.  And I don't think I've ever heard a better reason for not straying from here, at least not for too long.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Sason on July 31, 2010, 06:14:51 pm
 I just lit a candle.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Kelda on July 31, 2010, 06:18:24 pm
It's pretty late here. Going to go to bed to *try* to get some sleep. I feel exhausted.

Love to everyone.

And Tru, words so true, Bizzy we're here for you. Even in years to come.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: ednbarby on July 31, 2010, 06:19:25 pm
I just heard.   :'(

My thoughts are with Gene and the rest of the family, and everyone here who loved Rich.  And I'm reminded, again, how each day is such a gift, and we should never take them for granted.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 06:21:16 pm
It's pretty late here. Going to go to bed and try to get some sleep.

Love to everyone.



It's past midnight for me. I'm tired. But I can't go right now.
Hope you can find some sleep. :-*
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: optom3 on July 31, 2010, 06:29:38 pm
I just lit a candle.

Me too, a Brokie one and my own personal one.It does not seem enough though.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 06:40:44 pm
Hello Brokies.

I just got the phone call from Gene.

Rich passed away at 6:06 this eveing.  Gene was with him and holding him when his heart stopped.


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/DevotionalJesusHug-462x600.jpg)
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Ellemeno on July 31, 2010, 06:41:29 pm
I've also been thinking about Rich's courage to make really big changes.  He took big risks and found a beautiful life.  When he took the first steps to come out, he didn't know he would find Gene.  He was afraid he would lose his daughter, whom he always makes very clear is the light of his life.  He was afraid he would lose his family's respect, but he didn't.  He had a lot to risk, and he risked it.  And he found a beautiful life.

I've often thought of Rich with admiration.


Update:  The news was posted as I wrote this.  Love to you, Rich. 
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Wayne on July 31, 2010, 06:44:28 pm
oh friends i'm so sorry ...  :'( love to all of you
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 06:45:17 pm
Hello Brokies.

I just got the phone call from Gene.

Rich passed away at 6:06 this eveing.  Gene was with him and holding him when his heart stopped.


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/DevotionalJesusHug-462x600.jpg)

God rest his soul.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Sason on July 31, 2010, 06:48:10 pm
Love and solace be with his family and friends.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Katie77 on July 31, 2010, 06:48:28 pm
OMG....this is so sad, so sad
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Monika on July 31, 2010, 06:51:02 pm
.........................
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: fritzkep on July 31, 2010, 06:55:36 pm
God rest his soul.



Amen.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 06:55:51 pm
[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fIAQCiMIEEQ[/youtube]

For Rich.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 06:55:56 pm
Hello Brokies.

I just got the phone call from Gene.

Rich passed away at 6:06 this eveing.  Gene was with him and holding him when his heart stopped.


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/DevotionalJesusHug-462x600.jpg)


Oh God
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Lynne on July 31, 2010, 06:58:14 pm
Hello Brokies.

I just got the phone call from Gene.

Rich passed away at 6:06 this eveing.  Gene was with him and holding him when his heart stopped.


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/DevotionalJesusHug-462x600.jpg)

Thank you, Chuck, for being there to get the sad news from Gene.  I am so sorry I am sick with it.  I love you.  Be strong. {{{{{Chuck}}}}}

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: optom3 on July 31, 2010, 06:58:50 pm
Please let there be a God and let him look after Rich and keep him warm. My love to everyone.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: dontwanttosayGB on July 31, 2010, 07:05:28 pm
So, so, so sad...

Only met Rich on that weekend in SF at the Castro and Rodeo event and thought to myself - "what a nice guy"...

Heartfelt sympathy to his family and loved ones...such a tragedy to leave us at such a young age, but I am sure he went with no regrets...

I had hoped he could have made it to the Boston event...

Rest his soul and may light perpetual shine upon him...
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: pnwDUDE on July 31, 2010, 07:11:29 pm
Such a tragedy. What a sad day.

Rest in Peace sweet man.

Brad
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on July 31, 2010, 07:17:56 pm
    :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(

          A Thousand tears is not enough:  I am so sorry Gene and Bizzy, and the Boys
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 07:19:36 pm
Hello Brokies.

I just got the phone call from Gene.

Rich passed away at 6:06 this eveing.  Gene was with him and holding him when his heart stopped.


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/DevotionalJesusHug-462x600.jpg)

He's now touched the Face of God. :'( :'(

Rest in Peace dear Rich! And thank you so much for your friendship!! :-* :-*

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on July 31, 2010, 07:20:42 pm
At the risk of putting on too much air, this is the only thing I can come up with at the moment that summs up this day:

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_a-eXIoyYA[/youtube]
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Meryl on July 31, 2010, 07:25:51 pm
This is still impossible to absorb.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Penthesilea on July 31, 2010, 07:39:16 pm
(http://i575.photobucket.com/albums/ss192/Penthesilea09/a6fe172e.jpg)

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Ellemeno on July 31, 2010, 07:41:14 pm
Thank you, Chrissi.  That's beautiful.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 07:45:25 pm
At the risk of putting on too much air, this is the only thing I can come up with at the moment that summs up this day:

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_a-eXIoyYA[/youtube]

I can't watch the video, but I know exactly the part you are talking about. I've seen that movie dozens of times. It is such a beautiful and sad poem. I think it sums up exactly how we all feel right now. :(



Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on July 31, 2010, 07:46:34 pm


At 6:06 pm EST I was walking in Williamsburg (well, you know where) with two friends. I was telling them all about Rich, and his life, and BBM. They were more than interested, they were moved, and both said they were so sorry.

Terrible sadness. My condolences to his daughter, partner, mother, and many, many friends.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shasta542 on July 31, 2010, 07:46:48 pm
One thing I can't get out of my head, is that he posted the video to The Maker Makes yesterday morning on his Facebook page.  He said it was "heavy on his mind" yesterday morning.  Why did he post that?  ???  :'(

I remember how excited Rich was to get to meet you, Eric. If I'm not mistaken, you were the first Brokie he'd met, and it was such a special time for him. I'm sorry for the loss of your friend.

And sorry for all of us for the loss of Rich--he was quite a man. Just so good and kind. It was a blessing for all of us to know him. And those of you who also got to be with him, talk to and visit and hug him--that's a double blessing for you.

God bless you Gene, Elizabeth, and all. Rich was so loved.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 07:48:43 pm
I've updated the title of this thread, and added information to the first post, so that anyone finding the thread now will know the most current information.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on July 31, 2010, 07:52:26 pm
So very sorry. Special love to Truman, Chuck, and Lynne. He knows you love him.  :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: David In Indy on July 31, 2010, 07:53:49 pm
I remember how excited Rich was to get to meet you, Eric. If I'm not mistaken, you were the first Brokie he'd met, and it was such a special time for him. I'm sorry for the loss of your friend.

And sorry for all of us for the loss of Rich--he was quite a man. Just so good and kind. It was a blessing for all of us to know him. And those of you who also got to be with him, talk to and visit and hug him--that's a double blessing for you.

God bless you Gene, Elizabeth, and all. Rich was so loved.


You know, when someone dies it is customary to say nice and wonderful things about them. Sometimes they are true. Sometimes they are not. Most of the time they are somewhat true. But in Rich's case it is 100% true. I never saw him say an unkind word to anyone. He was always so supportive of me (and everyone around here I think) and he somehow always knew when to send me a PM or an email and offer me some support and encouraging words. He was such a beautiful and gentle soul. I wish I could have met him in person.

And to all of you who were so very close to Rich, I am so very sorry for your loss. He will be greatly missed. By all of us. My thoughts and prayers go to Elizabeth, Gene, Rich's family and to all of you. May you all somehow find peace and comfort during this horrible and difficult time.


{{{{{{ :-* :-* :-* }}}}}}

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: optom3 on July 31, 2010, 07:55:15 pm
Thanks Chuck, I have just been on the phone with Dev and as with all Brokies, it helps so much. I am going now to have my own 20 seconds silence. I said it before and I will say it again, my love to all. There is a new star that will shine so brightly in the sky tonight, and I believe that with all my heart.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: opinionista on July 31, 2010, 07:57:48 pm
I am so shocked that I can hardly believe it!!!! Oh my god what does this happen to all the good people!!???
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 07:59:59 pm
Richard and I laughed together, cried together, worried together, and supported each other through good and bad times.

He talked of his great love for Bizzy, and Gene and his boys.

My heart goes out to them for the loss of this special man.

He left us way too soon, but I am comforted by the fact that he found that 'cow and calf' operation with Gene.
He was so happy.

I just wish it could have lasted longer.

 :'(

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: dejavu on July 31, 2010, 08:16:50 pm
Tell you what, something that I believe--another lesson I learned from my mother's death--is that people we love don't really leave us when they are taken from this life, because they live on in our hearts--because we love them--as long as we live on. Rich will always be with us in our hearts because we love him.

Good to keep this in mind, Jeff.

I felt miserable this afternoon, so went out for a while and came back feeling a bit more peaceful.

It occurred to me while I was driving that Rich would not want us to feel miserable right now.  That may sound corny, but I think it's true.  He was sad and frustrated at times, but he was also funny and caring.  I remember some of the times when I was around him when we were all laughing....like the time he was begging and pleading for Chuck to find a rest stop when we were in the van coming back from the rodeo in 2007.   :)  I also remember how he talked about his daughter Elizabeth every chance he got.   :-*  And I know how much he meant to his best "in-person" friends here, and to so many others who didn't know him that well. 

I just wish I had been able to spend more time with him.  Maybe in Ft. Lauderdale this past April (who knew, back then?) or maybe in NYC sometime this fall.  Anyway, I still have the Christmas card PM he sent me in December 2007.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: dejavu on July 31, 2010, 08:25:17 pm
Hello Brokies.

I just got the phone call from Gene.

Rich passed away at 6:06 this eveing.  Gene was with him and holding him when his heart stopped.


May he rest in peace.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 08:37:15 pm
This. Is. Just. Too. Awful. For. Words.  :'(

Rich, you big sweetheart,

The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord make his face shine upon you and be
gracious to you.
The Lord look upon you with favor,
and give you peace.


 :'(

Hello Brokies.

I just got the phone call from Gene.

Rich passed away at 6:06 this eveing.  Gene was with him and holding him when his heart stopped.


(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/DevotionalJesusHug-462x600.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: louisev on July 31, 2010, 08:39:43 pm
RIP, Cowboy.

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3468/3897585633_ec368b3184.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 08:45:31 pm
I never saw him say an unkind word to anyone.

Me neither.

Tell you what--at the risk of being inappropriate--my first thought of response to David's comment was, "You can say that twice and mean it!" And then with a shock I remembered that Rich taught me that line. And I actually smiled at the memory.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on July 31, 2010, 08:48:21 pm
((((((((((Jeff))))))))))))

It's never inappropriate to remember what we love most about others. Thank you for sharing the memory.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 08:50:04 pm
((((((((((Jeff))))))))))))

It's never inappropriate to remember what we love most about others. Thank you for sharing the memory.

Thanks, Fritz.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Luvlylittlewing on July 31, 2010, 09:07:07 pm
I got the word in a text from Eric earlier this afternoon that Rich has passed over.  My heart goes out to us all and to Rich and his family.  He was a beautiful person and he will never be forgotten.  Those we love never really die.  As far as I'm concerned, Rich is still very much a part of our lives and will always be with us. 
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on July 31, 2010, 09:10:48 pm
I've sent a text to Gene, to let him know that all the Brokies here are missing Rich, and they all send their love to him and his boys, and Bizzy.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Luvlylittlewing on July 31, 2010, 09:11:41 pm
Please let there be a God and let him look after Rich and keep him warm. My love to everyone.

I believe there is a God, sweets, and I have every confidence that Rich is safe and happy in the arms of the Lord.  His journey has just begun and in time he will be reunited with those he loves. 
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on July 31, 2010, 09:16:40 pm
I have spoke with a non brokie mutual friend and have learned the following:

There will be a cremation, but details of the service will be worked out tomorrow. The request has been made for donations to be made for Elizabeth's education in leiu of flowers.

Gene has gone to tell Elizabeth.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Luvlylittlewing on July 31, 2010, 09:18:39 pm
I have spoke with a non brokie mutual friend and have learned the following:

There will be a cremation, but details of the service will be worked out tomorrow. The request has been made for donations to be made for Elizabeth's education in leiu of flowers.

Gene has gone to tell Elizabeth.

Oh my God!  That poor baby!  :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Marina on July 31, 2010, 09:19:53 pm
Hugs to all, and especially hugs, thoughts, prayers and love for Rich's family, his partner and his daughter.   What a terrible shock.   :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bailey1205 on July 31, 2010, 09:25:22 pm
I have spoke with a non brokie mutual friend and have learned the following:

There will be a cremation, but details of the service will be worked out tomorrow. The request has been made for donations to be made for Elizabeth's education in leiu of flowers.

Gene has gone to tell Elizabeth.

Tru, please let us know the particulars for the donation process when you know them.

Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: jstephens9 on July 31, 2010, 09:32:01 pm
Tell you what, something that I believe--another lesson I learned from my mother's death--is that people we love don't really leave us when they are taken from this life, because they live on in our hearts--because we love them--as long as we live on. Rich will always be with us in our hearts because we love him.


Jeff, I had never really thought about it like this. Thank you for posting this. I copied it so that I could remember it always.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: jstephens9 on July 31, 2010, 09:38:35 pm
I've also been thinking about Rich's courage to make really big changes.  He took big risks and found a beautiful life.  When he took the first steps to come out, he didn't know he would find Gene.  He was afraid he would lose his daughter, whom he always makes very clear is the light of his life.  He was afraid he would lose his family's respect, but he didn't.  He had a lot to risk, and he risked it.  And he found a beautiful life.

I've often thought of Rich with admiration.


Update:  The news was posted as I wrote this.  Love to you, Rich. 

These are the same qualities that I have always admired about Rich. He truly made all of these steps and he did find that beautiful life. He accomplished more in these few short years than many of us will ever accomplish.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 10:07:50 pm
Jeff, I had never really thought about it like this. Thank you for posting this. I copied it so that I could remember it always.

Thanks, Jack.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 10:09:55 pm
Gene has gone to tell Elizabeth.

Oh my God!  That poor baby!  :'(

Just on the cusp of young womanhood, and to lose her daddy like this, so unexpectedly. Just breaks your heart to think about it.  :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on July 31, 2010, 10:11:06 pm

This is really awful. As I just PM'd someone earlier, I was better walking around in Williamsburg; at home, on the computer (like now) I've been crying constantly. I think I better go to bed.

I know we will all be happy again, and soon. Thank you everybody.

Thank you, Rich.

xxx
John
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on July 31, 2010, 10:14:29 pm
This is really awful. As I just PM'd someone earlier, I was better walking around in Williamsburg; at home, on the computer (like now) I've been crying constantly. I think I better go to bed.

And I need a drink. My apologies if it upsets anyone to read that, but it's the truth.

If I didn't have to read in church in the morning, I'd probably get stinko.  :-\

I still can't believe this. ...  :(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dejavu on July 31, 2010, 10:15:14 pm
This is really awful. As I just PM'd someone earlier, I was better walking around in Williamsburg; at home, on the computer (like now) I've been crying constantly. I think I better go to bed.

(((John)))

You said it.  Sometimes the computer is just too sad, even though it's great to keep in touch.

Get a good rest and maybe tomorrow will look brighter, somehow.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Shasta542 on July 31, 2010, 10:38:36 pm
I believe there is a God, sweets, and I have every confidence that Rich is safe and happy in the arms of the Lord.  His journey has just begun and in time he will be reunited with those he loves. 

Amen, LW. Rich had a great relationship with the Lord, and I am in agreement. We didn't meet on earth, but I will look forward to meeting him in Heaven for sure.   
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dejavu on July 31, 2010, 11:03:06 pm
I have spoke with a non brokie mutual friend and have learned the following:

There will be a cremation, but details of the service will be worked out tomorrow. The request has been made for donations to be made for Elizabeth's education in leiu of flowers.

Gene has gone to tell Elizabeth.

Thanks, Truman.

And hugs, (((Truman and Lynne)))

I'm leaving town tomorrow but if you put the information up in this thread, I do want to send a donation for Elizabeth's education when I get back.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on July 31, 2010, 11:18:00 pm


 The request has been made for donations to be made for Elizabeth's education in leiu of flowers.



Ok--that's good. Thanks, Truman.  
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Andrew on July 31, 2010, 11:21:55 pm
(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/youbetjack/Loveiswithusstill.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: tforster on July 31, 2010, 11:37:07 pm
I don't post much in here... but I feel close to this beautiful community of people who've come together because of a shared love for Brokeback Mountain. I read a lot of what y'all write... and your wonderful conversations and banter. I spent much of a work day about six months ago reading through Rich's long thread that spanned that difficult and wonderful period of his life... it seemed like a fairy tale come true that he would find the love of his life in the end. I am so saddened to come in here tonight and find out that he is gone. May God bless his partner, children, family and friends. " 'Tis better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all".   ~ Tom
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Luvlylittlewing on July 31, 2010, 11:37:46 pm
(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/youbetjack/Loveiswithusstill.jpg)

This tribute is so beautiful and moving.  Thanks for posting, you have made me feel so much better!  :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 12:13:00 am
And I need a drink. My apologies if it upsets anyone to read that, but it's the truth.

If I didn't have to read in church in the morning, I'd probably get stinko.  :-\

I still can't believe this. ...  :(

I am having some drinks too
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 12:15:18 am
Just on the cusp of young womanhood, and to lose her daddy like this, so unexpectedly. Just breaks your heart to think about it.  :'(

I was telling Truman on the phone today that Rich always talked about Elizabeth growing up and losing his baby.........it was so obvious how much he loved her........he always posted her pictures.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 01, 2010, 12:17:34 am
No blame one bit, Jeff. Not tonight, but in a day or two I foresee a Ketel One martini in my future. One's enough.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 12:21:42 am
I don't post much in here... but I feel close to this beautiful community of people who've come together because of a shared love for Brokeback Mountain. I read a lot of what y'all write... and your wonderful conversations and banter. I spent much of a work day about six months ago reading through Rich's long thread that spanned that difficult and wonderful period of his life... it seemed like a fairy tale come true that he would find the love of his life in the end. I am so saddened to come in here tonight and find out that he is gone. May God bless his partner, children, family and friends. " 'Tis better to have loved and lost, than never to have loved at all".   ~ Tom

That is exactly how I felt.........it did seem like a fairy tale come true that Rich did indeed find the love of his life after everything he went through to get there. I was telling a non Brokie friend that exact same thing right before I came on here and was telling Truman that on the phone earlier today. One thing I am very sure about is Rich found that happiness he was looking for so hard.........he did it.....and I have admired that since he first told everyone about Gene......and now I can't help but feeling how lost Gene must feel.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 12:30:06 am
This is a song that came on when I put in one of my compilation CDs that I had no idea of what was on it. I would like to dedicate this to Rich and Gene. The words remind me so much of what it must have been like for Rich when he first met Gene.

[youtube=425,350]<object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="
&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="
&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object>[/youtube]
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 01, 2010, 12:33:32 am
That is exactly how I felt.........it did seem like a fairy tale come true that Rich did indeed find the love of his life after everything he went through to get there. I was telling a non Brokie friend that exact same thing right before I came on here and was telling Truman that on the phone earlier today. One thing I am very sure about is Rich found that happiness he was looking for so hard.........he did it.....and I have admired that since he first told everyone about Gene......and now I can't help but feeling how lost Gene must feel.

Hey, Jack. Long time. {{{{{{{JACK}}}}}}}

Yeah. Rich was our dream come true--he showed us all that hope can become reality. That nice guys do finish first. He was the happy coda to a story of Ennis. And so much more to so many here and at his home. A wonderful life cut short. We are going to miss him so much.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 01, 2010, 12:34:59 am
Rich and I always talked about how he wanted to come to Wyoming one day, and I told him there was a bandana waiting for him, one that said "As long as we can ride it, There ain't no reins on this one." Now, I'm taking it to Brokenback Mountain, as a tribute to him, and putting it in the cache. Rest in peace, Richard, dear. Your long journey ended in triumph, and you will live forever in our hearts.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 01, 2010, 12:39:47 am
Rich and I always talked about how he wanted to come to Wyoming one day, and I told him there was a bandana waiting for him, one that said "There ain't no reins on this one." Now, I'm taking it to Brokenback Mountain, as a tribute to him, and putting it in the cache. Rest in peace, Richard, dear. Your long journey ended in triumph, and you will live forever in our hearts.

:) {{{{{LEE}}}}}
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 12:43:04 am
Hey, Jack. Long time. {{{{{{{JACK}}}}}}}

Yeah. Rich was our dream come true--he showed us all that hope can become reality. That nice guys do finish first. He was the happy coda to a story of Ennis. And so much more to so many here and at his home. A wonderful life cut short. We are going to miss him so much.


Yes it has been a long time {{{{{{{SHASTA}}}}}}}}

Yeah I agree he sure did show us all that hope can become a reality. His life with Gene and their families in all of the pictures he posted were such an inspiration to me. It was like the happy ending we all wanted for Ennis and Jack at the end of Brokeback Mountain.

I think too that it has brought many of us back to a place we have all loved being even if it got rough sometimes. That place would be Bettermost where I immediately came after learning about this. Facebook just did not seem to be the place to be when one of our own faced all of this. Even though I must say I am so glad that it was just yesterday that I communicated with Rich on Facebook. He and Gene seemed so happy about the event they were going to this weekend.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: tampatalon on August 01, 2010, 12:48:03 am
I am very saddened. May he sleep with the angels.

TampaTalon (Steve)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: pnwDUDE on August 01, 2010, 01:40:59 am
Rich and I always talked about how he wanted to come to Wyoming one day, and I told him there was a bandana waiting for him, one that said "There ain't no reins on this one." Now, I'm taking it to Brokenback Mountain, as a tribute to him, and putting it in the cache. Rest in peace, Richard, dear. Your long journey ended in triumph, and you will live forever in our hearts.

Wow Lee, what a fine tribute. He's surely smilin' down on ya' this very second. You'll be close to him up on that mountain. Let him know he'll be missed but never forgotten.

Brad

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ohiomyown on August 01, 2010, 02:07:51 am
It's been a shocking and sad day for us all.  I just want to say to Rich's personal friends, I'm sorry for your loss.

The Rich I knew reached out in trust and love to everyone here, I remember feeling loved and cared for in his presence.

He was so open and ready to live a new life.  And live it he did.  I am so happy he found the love of his life, and shared
the last part of his life with him, their children and their families.

The last thing I want to say is "Good for you, Rich!" . . . signing up to be an organ donor is the most loving thing a person
can do -  and that was surely our Rich's M.O.

Now, I'm going to spread my arms as wide as they can go, to hold you, all of you in our time of sadness.  Don't worry if we
haven't met in person, someday soon we may.  {{{{{{  all of us here  }}}}}}

And another thing.  Don't waste a second,  love those you love . . . cause we never know.
Judy
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on August 01, 2010, 02:08:55 am
Ok--that's good. Thanks, Truman.  

        I have just been wondering about this.  I would hop a plane to go there if I hadn't just
spent my money on a ticket to Iowa to visit the ever present Gdaughter.  I will sorely miss
this event, but I will definitely be there in every way but the real one.  Thanks Tru for letting
us know of this.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 03:06:44 am
        I have just been wondering about this.  I would hop a plane to go there if I hadn't just
spent my money on a ticket to Iowa to visit the ever present Gdaughter.  I will sorely miss
this event, but I will definitely be there in every way but the real one.  Thanks Tru for letting
us know of this.

How much would it cost you? Please let me know in a PM and maybe we can figure out something. You were "Mama" to Rich and I think it would be great if you could be there. That would make him feel so good to know that you are there. I am going to try my best to be there and I would like you to be there right beside me if I can figure out about going. Talk about a special person............YOU ARE!!! Contact me and maybe we can figure something out.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 01, 2010, 03:08:11 am
Rich and I always talked about how he wanted to come to Wyoming one day, and I told him there was a bandana waiting for him, one that said "There ain't no reins on this one." Now, I'm taking it to Brokenback Mountain, as a tribute to him, and putting it in the cache.

What a lovely thing to do, FRiend Lee!  :)

I wasn't sure if any of the Colorado folks had actually met Rich. I apologize for not being in touch about this today.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 03:13:13 am
Jeff, you are back up I see
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 03:19:08 am
Jeff, while you are here, and especially after all that has happened today........do know that you are always a true and close friend of mine. I think you know that, but we went from some strange circumstances on the first Wyoming trip to being great friends and then roommates on the last Wyoming trip. I care a lot about you and I really enjoyed being around you on the last Wyoming trip. Like Rich, you are a special person.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: magicmountain on August 01, 2010, 03:26:30 am
I have just logged on to discover this awful thing has happened. I remember reading Rich's thread through his early struggles and thought how wonderful it was he had found such terrific support from all his friends here.

Queen Elizabeth of all people said something once that comes into my mind now. Grief is the price we pay for love.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 03:34:16 am
Yeah I have another video.....and another one dedicated to Rich and Lee........I guess I just don't want any of us to forget the love the two of them found after so many of Rich's years being unhappy and confused........I just can't forget those first pictures of the happiest family I ever saw........not only Rich, but Lee, and Elizabeth and Lee's kids.......that is a happiness I have hardly ever seen in this life.........I thought it could exist and they showed it could.........

[youtube=425,350]<object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="
&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="
&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object>[/youtube]
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ohiomyown on August 01, 2010, 03:34:38 am
I have just logged on to discover this awful thing has happened. I remember reading Rich's thread through his early struggles and thought how wonderful it was he had found such terrific support from all his friends here.

Queen Elizabeth of all people said something once that comes into my mind now. Grief is the price we pay for love.


Thanks for that quote.  It's appropriate, and I intend to use it and remember it.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 01, 2010, 03:49:28 am
Just on the cusp of young womanhood, and to lose her daddy like this, so unexpectedly. Just breaks your heart to think about it.  :'(

Yes, it does. I hope she gets all the love and support she needs in this disaster.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 01, 2010, 03:50:30 am
Judy, it's good to see you here.

I was away for a few hours, and dang, the bad news is still true.

I wish good rest to everyone.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 01, 2010, 04:04:56 am
Judy, it's good to see you here.

I was away for a few hours, and dang, the bad news is still true.

I wish good rest to everyone.


Have a good rest yourself, Clarissa.
The night is over for me. I shut down the computer at 2:45am, but still couldn't sleep at first.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 01, 2010, 04:13:19 am


I'm leaving town tomorrow but if you put the information up in this thread, I do want to send a donation for Elizabeth's education when I get back.


Thanks for the hug, Debbie, and I hug you back, and yes, me too, what you said about the donation.

Woke up at 3:30am, in the middle of wonderful dream that, somehow, was slightly tinged with anxiety. Then when I fully woke up, I had myself an old-fashioned, full-blown anxiety attack. Back in the shower for more water therapy with blubbering.

Wow. This really stinks.

Hi, Chrissi. Hugs. This is like a wake. isn't it. What am I saying, there is no 'like,' it is  a wake.

Still horrible. Oh well....
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 01, 2010, 04:30:21 am
(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c112/youbetjack/Loveiswithusstill.jpg)

Beautiful....
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 01, 2010, 04:33:03 am

Thanks for the hug, Debbie, and I hug you back, and yes, me too, what you said about the donation.

Woke up at 3:30am, in the middle of wonderful dream that, somehow, was slightly tinged with anxiety. Then when I fully woke up, I had myself an old-fashioned, full blown anxiety attack. Back in the shower for more water therapy with blubbering.

Wow. This really stinks.

Hi, Chrissi. Hugs. This is like a wake. isn't it. What am I saying, there is no 'like,' it is  a wake.

Still horrible. Oh well....


You're right, there is no "like".

(((John)))

I wish you more sleep and no more panic attacs. :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sophia on August 01, 2010, 04:42:05 am

You're right, there is no "like".

(((John)))

I wish you more sleep and no more panic attacs. :-*

(((john)))

I agree, wish you more sleep and no more panic attacs
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 01, 2010, 05:11:59 am


You're right, there is no "like".

(((John)))

I wish you more sleep and no more panic attacs. :-*



Thank you, Chrissi! I hope not, I'm trying to be  (http://www.logoi.com/pastimages/img/buddha_2.jpg)



(((john)))

I agree, wish you more sleep and no more panic attacs


Hi Sophia! Sonja too! Just figured out you were here. We're like the Honor Guard at the vigil. You must be going to Norway soon, Sophia, have a good time. Look out for likely fountains!

Surprisingly cool in NY at the moment, might go for a very early walk--

Yup, though it's still dark, the birds have started at 5:14am.

Feeling much better, now--
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sophia on August 01, 2010, 05:23:30 am
 a (((((Brokie hug)))))) to you all
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 01, 2010, 05:25:00 am

Changing of the Guard. Good morning all. (Hi, Lynne!)

Have a Good Day!

 :)

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 01, 2010, 05:26:36 am
Just checking in since I'm awake.  I got in three hours or so.

I am sorry about your panic attack, (((((John)))).  Those are not good.

What a messed up day. And what an understatement.

Somewhere (Bible?) there are words about consoling instead of seeking to be consoled. I feel stuck in the middle, somewhere lost.

Bless you all for being here.

FriendLee - I am glad you get to go up on that mountain. I think Rich would have liked that.

To paraphrase Paul - "What are we gonna do now, hunh?"  
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: BayCityJohn on August 01, 2010, 05:27:16 am
I had to drive into San Francisco this afternoon, so I wasn't here when Chuck announced that Rich was gone. While I was on my way to the theater I got a text message from Eric soon after Chuck posted.

I was on Van Ness Street when the message came in, stopped at a red light in front of the Cathedral Hotel. This was the last place I saw Rich at when he was here for the Castro screening and the rodeo.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 01, 2010, 05:54:19 am


Thank you, Chrissi! I hope not, I'm trying to be  (http://www.logoi.com/pastimages/img/buddha_2.jpg)




Hi Sophia! Sonja too! Just figured out you were here. We're like the Honor Guard at the vigil. You must be going to Norway soon, Sophia, have a good time. Look out for likely fountains!

Surprisingly cool in NY at the moment, might go for a very early walk--

Yup, though it's still dark, the birds have started at 5:14am.

Feeling much better, now--

Glad you're feeling better, John!!

Hope you can get some sleep.


Yep, it seems someone is always on guard here.... :-\
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 01, 2010, 05:54:35 am
That is lovely, John. In that grieving bittersweet way. I know just where you were. I am sorry and I love and miss you. Were you headed to San Bruno?  I hope so. I'd like to call you two tomorrow. Or call me, whoever thinks of it first.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 01, 2010, 05:54:57 am
a (((((Brokie hug)))))) to you all

And to you too, ((( Sophia )))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: BayCityJohn on August 01, 2010, 05:57:20 am
That is lovely, John. In that grieving bittersweet way. I know just where you were. I am sorry and I love and miss you. Were you headed to San Bruno?  I hope so. I'd like to call you two tomorrow. Or call me, whoever thinks of it first.

I'm in San Bruno now. At the time I was headed to the Man Dance performance.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 01, 2010, 06:00:18 am
For the first time ever I avoided logging on to Bettermost this morning after a night of tossing and turning.

I didn't want to see this news.

And now, the real tears have come.  

Like some of you, I had a few glasses of wine, and some comfort food, sitting vigil on the thread but I just had to get away from it. Hoping the news would turn overnight.

It didn't.  :-\

David - you're so right. Rich never had a bad word to say, always sent lovely messages to say hello. Why the good guys?



Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 01, 2010, 06:01:05 am
I had to drive into San Francisco this afternoon, so I wasn't here when Chuck announced that Rich was gone. While I was on my way to the theater I got a text message from Eric soon after Chuck posted.

I was on Van Ness Street when the message came in, stopped at a red light in front of the Cathedral Hotel. This was the last place I saw Rich at when he was here for the Castro screening and the rodeo.



(BCJ)

He was just findining his own wee way to say goodbye in a meaningful way.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 01, 2010, 06:02:15 am
John, that is very strange, and pregnant.

Say hi to Linda for me.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 01, 2010, 06:03:12 am
This is a song that came on when I put in one of my compilation CDs that I had no idea of what was on it. I would like to dedicate this to Rich and Gene. The words remind me so much of what it must have been like for Rich when he first met Gene.

[youtube=425,350]<object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="
&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="
&amp;hl=en_US&amp;fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object>[/youtube]

All the other videos posted here and on facebook have made me sad.... but this made me smile. He had his sweet life, and I can imagine him bopping away to this.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 01, 2010, 06:04:11 am
I have spoke with a non brokie mutual friend and have learned the following:

There will be a cremation, but details of the service will be worked out tomorrow. The request has been made for donations to be made for Elizabeth's education in leiu of flowers.

Gene has gone to tell Elizabeth.

Poor poor thing...  she doted on her dad as much as he doted on her.

I can't be at the funeral, but I'd like to donate. Please keep us up to date.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sophia on August 01, 2010, 06:19:40 am
That is lovely, John. In that grieving bittersweet way. I know just where you were. I am sorry and I love and miss you. Were you headed to San Bruno?  I hope so. I'd like to call you two tomorrow. Or call me, whoever thinks of it first.

thank you for sharing your moment John.

I am glad that you to will be in contact, Lynne

As I also just found out this morning when I woke up. Since then I have been reading all the brokie comments. I am so glad that so many people got the chance to meet Rich and his family. My thoughts goes to them...

 :-*
 
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Berit on August 01, 2010, 06:20:09 am
Like Kelda I can't be presant at the funeral but I want to donate. I can't give much but I can give some and together we can help his daughter some. We are friends, for better or worse.

This is so sad.

It's raining in Mariestad.

I send you all my love.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 01, 2010, 07:42:43 am

Somewhere (Bible?) there are words about consoling instead of seeking to be consoled. I feel stuck in the middle somewhere
lost.


The prayer of St. Francis of Assisi


Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy;

O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.


Will say some special prayers for Rich and Gene at church this morning.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 01, 2010, 08:09:04 am
Today my thoughts are with Gene and Elisabeth foremost. I really can't imagine. I'm also thinking of the boys, Rich's mother, all of his family, wich includes his brothers here on BetterMost, Chuck, Tru, Paul.
Love to all of you.


And to all Brokies, really.

(((Brokies)))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: souxi on August 01, 2010, 08:26:52 am
I hope no one minds me butting in on this thread. I appreciate I didn't know Rich, but I'd like to express my sincerest condolences to his family and friends, and everyone who loved him. From what I've been reading he seemed like a very well liked guy. It's pretty obvious he was well loved here.

It's just so sad I wanted to say how sorry I am for you all. Hope no one minds. xxx
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 01, 2010, 08:29:37 am
Thank you, Souxi.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 01, 2010, 08:35:49 am
Thank you Souxi.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 09:34:14 am
Morning Brokies.

After a day of emotional eating (::) ) I doped myself with some Tylenol PMs and made it thorugh the night without nightmares or incidents.

The temptation to eat big time again is there, but the last email I have from Rich was after he saw my "suit pics", telling me how good I was looking.  If he knew how I behaved yesterday, he'd be pissed and I'd be in for one hell of a lecture.

Queen Elizabeth of all people said something once that comes into my mind now. Grief is the price we pay for love.

Hi, Chrissi. Hugs. This is like a wake. isn't it. What am I saying, there is no 'like,' it is  a wake.

When my friend's mother died, she asked asked her husband when things would get back to normal.  His reply was "They don't get back to normal.  What happens now is you adapt to a new "normal" in your life.  That's what we all have to do now.

I received a PM from Andew, asking if I thought that Gene would mind giving us his address to be published so those who want to, can send cards to him and the boys.

I have Gene's address, it's on my computer at work.  I will NOT publsh it.  However, anyone who would like to send a card, send me a PM and I will send you the address via PM tomorrow morning.  Just title the PM "Gene's Address" and I'll send it to you.  All I ask is that you keep the address private.

Thanks
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dontwanttosayGB on August 01, 2010, 10:04:42 am
It's been a shocking and sad day for us all.  I just want to say to Rich's personal friends, I'm sorry for your loss.

The Rich I knew reached out in trust and love to everyone here, I remember feeling loved and cared for in his presence.

He was so open and ready to live a new life.  And live it he did.  I am so happy he found the love of his life, and shared
the last part of his life with him, their children and their families.

The last thing I want to say is "Good for you, Rich!" . . . signing up to be an organ donor is the most loving thing a person
can do -  and that was surely our Rich's M.O.

Now, I'm going to spread my arms as wide as they can go, to hold you, all of you in our time of sadness.  Don't worry if we
haven't met in person, someday soon we may.  {{{{{{  all of us here  }}}}}}

And another thing.  Don't waste a second,  love those you love . . . cause we never know.
Judy


((((Judy))))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: trekfan on August 01, 2010, 10:22:38 am
I am very sorry to hear this.   :(   it just shows us how fragile life is.   

deepest sympathy to his partner and his friends and family too
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 01, 2010, 11:01:20 am
Chuck, can you tell us the funeral / service details?  I'd like to be there.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ohiomyown on August 01, 2010, 11:22:49 am
((((Judy))))

Ted, my friend,  I'm sorry we are meeting in this place for this reason.  We've cried enough together, you and I.
I love you, and am happy for your new life.   Please stay in touch. Judy
{{{{Ted}}}}
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 11:26:37 am
Chuck, can you tell us the funeral / service details?  I'd like to be there.


I don't have any details at the moment.

Between my contact with Gene, or Truman's contact with Rich's mom, one of us should be able to provide information.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 11:59:24 am
I had to drive into San Francisco this afternoon, so I wasn't here when Chuck announced that Rich was gone. While I was on my way to the theater I got a text message from Eric soon after Chuck posted.

I was on Van Ness Street when the message came in, stopped at a red light in front of the Cathedral Hotel. This was the last place I saw Rich at when he was here for the Castro screening and the rodeo.


I posted some time ago that I had heard some really sad news that the Cathedral Hill Hotel was closing and would be demolished. Rich was the first person to immediately respond to me that it was very sad because of all the memories it brought back to him. I am still looking for my missing San Francisco pictures and I did find some of them, but not the ones I am wanting to find. There are some pictures of the Cathedral Hotel I came across which brought back all of the memories of that truly great time. In fact one of them also show Mel's Drive In where so many of us went so many times during that trip. The first night we were there I met Rich and a bunch of us went to Mel's at around 3 in the morning. I will never forget that Rich ordered all these different side dishes of things. I was reminding Truman of that yesterday when I talked to him. I am glad to know that the Cathedral Hill Hotel is still standing. I was afraid it may be gone.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 01, 2010, 12:33:47 pm
Morning Brokies.

After a day of emotional eating (::) ) I doped myself with some Tylenol PMs and made it thorugh the night without nightmares or incidents.

The temptation to eat big time again is there, but the last email I have from Rich was after he saw my "suit pics", telling me how good I was looking.  If he knew how I behaved yesterday, he'd be pissed and I'd be in for one hell of a lecture.

When my friend's mother died, she asked asked her husband when things would get back to normal.  His reply was "They don't get back to normal.  What happens now is you adapt to a new "normal" in your life.  That's what we all have to do now.

I received a PM from Andew, asking if I thought that Gene would mind giving us his address to be published so those who want to, can send cards to him and the boys.

I have Gene's address, it's on my computer at work.  I will NOT publsh it.  However, anyone who would like to send a card, send me a PM and I will send you the address via PM tomorrow morning.  Just title the PM "Gene's Address" and I'll send it to you.  All I ask is that you keep the address private.

Thanks

I have a suggestion.

It's just an idea, I won't be upset if you guys don't like it.

This thread is so full of sympathy and loving messages for Rich and his family.
My idea is that it be printed out at some point, maybe after the funeral, and sent to Rich's family.

That way they will know how much he meant to so many people, and how sorely he will be missed.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dejavu on August 01, 2010, 12:35:32 pm
I had to drive into San Francisco this afternoon, so I wasn't here when Chuck announced that Rich was gone. While I was on my way to the theater I got a text message from Eric soon after Chuck posted.

I was on Van Ness Street when the message came in, stopped at a red light in front of the Cathedral Hotel. This was the last place I saw Rich at when he was here for the Castro screening and the rodeo.



Hi, (((John))).

That must have seemed eerie, being at the Cathedral Hill Hotel.  I remember him well from that hotel and the surrounding neighborhood, although I did see him after that.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dejavu on August 01, 2010, 12:44:29 pm
Chuck, I understand the emotional eating, I did some of that too last.

But it's good that you can remember how much Rich admired your new, slimmer look in those suits.

These are tough times, so we all have to be strong for each other.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 01, 2010, 01:09:31 pm
I BELIEVE IT WOULD BE ADVISABLE TO READ THIS WITH CAUTION


Ok, I have spoken to Rich's mother and she has told me what we talked about I could share with the many who are awaiting news.

It appears at this point a memorial service/funeral will be held on Saturday, the 7th. More information will follow but they do ask for no flowers, "Flowers die" she said. A trust fund for Elizabeth's education will be set up and will address one of the biggest concern Rich had, paying for her education.

Now, for the details.

Rich and Gene were at a horse event, the location of which I do not know. They were riding on the back of a flat bed golf cart type utility vehicle. I know of which she speaks and have ridden in one but do not know what they are called. She said Rich, being himself was waiving and calling out to people.

Gene first saw him rolling down thru the pasture. I am careful here to not tell you what he did or did not see, only he can speak to that. There was and injury to his eye and to his face. They have wondered since then how exactly the injury took place.

She told further, that last night Rich came to Gene in a dream. He told him that he was turning to sit down next to him, lost his balance and fell, his face striking the trailer hitch, at which point all went dark.

Elizabeth was able to visit with her father privately yesterday and lay with him on his bed, her head on his chest.

I cannot at this point recall any other pertinent information from our conversation.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 01:13:30 pm
Thank you Truman.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Berit on August 01, 2010, 01:16:00 pm
I BELIEVE IT WOULD BE ADVISABLE TO READ THIS WITH CAUTION


Ok, I have spoken to Rich's mother and she has told me what we talked about I could share with the many who are awaiting news.

It appears at this point a memorial service/funeral will be held on Saturday, the 7th. More information will follow but they do ask for no flowers, "Flowers die" she said. A trust fund for Elizabeth's education will be set up and will address one of the biggest concern Rich had, paying for her education.

Now, for the details.

Rich and Gene were at a horse event, the location of which I do not know. They were riding on the back of a flat bed golf cart type utility vehicle. I know of which she speaks and have ridden in one but do not know what they are called. She said Rich, being himself was waiving and calling out to people.

Gene first saw him rolling down thru the pasture. I am careful here to not tell you what he did or did not see, only he can speak to that. There was and injury to his eye and to his face. They have wondered since then how exactly the injury took place.

She told further, that last night Rich came to Gene in a dream. He told him that he was turning to sit down next to him, lost his balance and fell, his face striking the trailer hitch, at which point all went dark.

Elizabeth was able to visit with her father privately yesterday and lay with him on his bed, her head on his chest.

I cannot at this point recall any other pertinent information from our conversation.
Thank you for the information.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 01, 2010, 01:21:51 pm
Thank you, Truman. Appreciate it.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 01, 2010, 01:24:18 pm
READ THIS WITH CAUTION

Thanks Tru. But, oh God.  

Poor, Poor, Rich.

I'd assumed he'd fallen off a horse. And I thought, well, he died doing something he loved, that his whole family, including his Dad, loved.

I suppose he was still at the horse event though, enjoying it with Gene. So he was doing something he loved, but oh, just horrible.

And poor poor Bizzy. To see her Daddy like that. I'm glad she got to see him though. She obviously wanted to say goodbye and its important she got that opportunity. To give him that one last bear hug.

 :'(


Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bailey1205 on August 01, 2010, 01:35:03 pm
Dear Lord.

 :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: optom3 on August 01, 2010, 01:39:15 pm
For the first time ever I avoided logging on to Bettermost this morning after a night of tossing and turning.

I didn't want to see this news.

And now, the real tears have come.  

Like some of you, I had a few glasses of wine, and some comfort food, sitting vigil on the thread but I just had to get away from it. Hoping the news would turn overnight.

It didn't.  :-\

David - you're so right. Rich never had a bad word to say, always sent lovely messages to say hello. Why the good guys?





That is exactly how I felt. I have never logged on so late and last night one glass of wine turned into several . I so wanted for it all to have been some terrible nightmare.  All I keep thinking is, his daughter is the same age as Emma and she loved her dad so much. I cannot conceive the pain she must be in. I kept going round the family last night and hugging them.
My kids laugh at me because every time we part, or got to bed , I have to tell then how much I love them. It started when I was first a mum and I told them that their tummy buttons were  the physical proof of my  ,for ever love, formed the very second they were conceived. It was once visible  but although you could no longer see it, the bond would be there for ever.  ,so I would always be with them.We called it the invidible string. As they grew older, the invisible string is still there. I also told them as dad had made them  he was also part of the string. His very cells were in it.

I believe when so many people gather as we do here, there is a whole ball of invisible strings. It is just another way of saying love and deep connections. We have been lucky enough to find this haven. So many of us have bonded in some way, and I also believe that the invisible string bond with Richard will always be there too.
Sorry for rambling on.

That is what I want someone to tell his daughter. The cord which kept her safe and nourished is part mum and part dad. She only needs to look at her tummy button and see the physical proof. It will be there for ever and so will the love.
When one of my kids asks if I still love them, the response is always the same, do you still have a tummy button.

My love to all of you and my special love and thoughts to those who were so close to him.
I think who ever had the idea of at some stage in the future printing off all the wonderful words here, is a really good one.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 01, 2010, 01:40:59 pm

I don't know what to say, except--it's all so horribly sad--

Chuck, you are coping so well. You are so Wise.

You too, Lynne!

I know everyone is moving very slowly to day, thinking slow thoughts--

Hi Monika, I see you! Hope you had I good  day.  A sad, but good day.

Oh well.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 01:41:38 pm
Thank you Truman. Like Kelda, I also assumed he had been thrown from a horse. Somehow this does make it all seem more tragic if it truly can get more tragic.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: opinionista on August 01, 2010, 01:44:05 pm
Thank you Truman for the update. I think we should all try to celebrate his life, and be grateful that we had the honor to get to know him. We were lucky to have him around these past years. I never met him personally but I did have a many funny and nice exchanges with him here and in Facebook. He would cheer me up when I needed it the most. He will be missed.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 01, 2010, 01:44:11 pm
Thank you Truman.

I also thought he fell off a horse.  This seems so......unnecessary.....  :'(

I am glad his daughter was able to say goodbye the way she did, it's important.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on August 01, 2010, 01:50:56 pm
I believe when so many people gather as we do here, there is a whole ball of invisible strings. It is just another way of saying love and deep connections. We have been lucky enough to find this haven. So many of us have bonded in some way, and I also believe that the invisible string bond with Richard will always be there too.
:) :-* :-\ :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on August 01, 2010, 01:51:46 pm
Thanks Truman.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 01, 2010, 01:53:36 pm
That is exactly how I felt. I have never logged on so late and last night one glass of wine turned into several . I so wanted for it all to have been some terrible nightmare.  All I keep thinking is, his daughter is the same age as Emma and she loved her dad so much. I cannot conceive the pain she must be in. I kept going round the family last night and hugging them.
My kids laugh at me because every time we part, or got to bed , I have to tell then how much I love them. It started when I was first a mum and I told them that their tummy buttons were  the physical proof of my  ,for ever love, formed the very second they were conceived. It was once visible  but although you could no longer see it, the bond would be there for ever.  ,so I would always be with them.We called it the invidible string. As they grew older, the invisible string is still there. I also told them as dad had made them  he was also part of the string. His very cells were in it.

I believe when so many people gather as we do here, there is a whole ball of invisible strings. It is just another way of saying love and deep connections. We have been lucky enough to find this haven. So many of us have bonded in some way, and I also believe that the invisible string bond with Richard will always be there too.
Sorry for rambling on.

That is what I want someone to tell his daughter. The cord which kept her safe and nourished is part mum and part dad. She only needs to look at her tummy button and see the physical proof. It will be there for ever and so will the love.
When one of my kids asks if I still love them, the response is always the same, do you still have a tummy button.

My love to all of you and my special love and thoughts to those who were so close to him.
I think who ever had the idea of at some stage in the future printing off all the wonderful words here, is a really good one.

Fiona, like Wayne, I liked your invisible strings anology.

As well as the belly button thing.

Not rambling, Fiona, heartfelt I feel. Thankyou.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 02:00:41 pm
That is exactly how I felt. I have never logged on so late and last night one glass of wine turned into several . I so wanted for it all to have been some terrible nightmare.  All I keep thinking is, his daughter is the same age as Emma and she loved her dad so much. I cannot conceive the pain she must be in. I kept going round the family last night and hugging them.
My kids laugh at me because every time we part, or got to bed , I have to tell then how much I love them. It started when I was first a mum and I told them that their tummy buttons were  the physical proof of my  ,for ever love, formed the very second they were conceived. It was once visible  but although you could no longer see it, the bond would be there for ever.  ,so I would always be with them.We called it the invidible string. As they grew older, the invisible string is still there. I also told them as dad had made them  he was also part of the string. His very cells were in it.

I believe when so many people gather as we do here, there is a whole ball of invisible strings. It is just another way of saying love and deep connections. We have been lucky enough to find this haven. So many of us have bonded in some way, and I also believe that the invisible string bond with Richard will always be there too.
Sorry for rambling on.

That is what I want someone to tell his daughter. The cord which kept her safe and nourished is part mum and part dad. She only needs to look at her tummy button and see the physical proof. It will be there for ever and so will the love.
When one of my kids asks if I still love them, the response is always the same, do you still have a tummy button.

My love to all of you and my special love and thoughts to those who were so close to him.
I think who ever had the idea of at some stage in the future printing off all the wonderful words here, is a really good one.

I really like what you say here. I also must say that I had several drinks of Jack Daniels last night from the blue cup like the one in the movie that we got at the 2007 BBQ. I felt it was fitting for some reason. You are correct in that we are lucky that we found this haven and have all bonded in the way we have. I do not think that bond will ever end. I too think that the idea of printing everything off here at some point to give Gene, Elizabeth, and Richard's family.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 01, 2010, 02:09:04 pm
Thank you, Truman, for that update.  I can't imagine how you were able to manage that phone call.  I'm sorry that it had to be you.  But at the same time I can't really imagine it being anybody else.

I am also glad that Elizabeth got to say goodbye to her dad, though it breaks my heart to see it in print - somehow things here seemed out of order yesterday with the posts, and I had the impression that Gene was going to tell her after Rich's physical death, and that didn't seem right.

Fiona - the tummy button is a lovely analogy - and I'm sure if we get a chance to talk with her this weekend one of us will pass it on (or to Gene so he can) if it feels right.

And Fritz - thank you very much for posting the St. Francis of Assisi poem - the whole piece is beautiful, isn't it?
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 01, 2010, 02:19:20 pm
If there must be a last moment before the bad happened, I like that Rich was riding along waving and calling out to people.  That sounds like him.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 01, 2010, 02:39:04 pm
Jeff, while you are here, and especially after all that has happened today........do know that you are always a true and close friend of mine. I think you know that, but we went from some strange circumstances on the first Wyoming trip to being great friends and then roommates on the last Wyoming trip. I care a lot about you and I really enjoyed being around you on the last Wyoming trip. Like Rich, you are a special person.

Aw, Jack, thank you. That sure is more than I deserve! Sorry for this delay, but I turned in right after my last post in the wee hours of today and didn't see yours until, well, now. You were always a delight to have as a traveling companion and roommate (we sure had some adventures, didn't we?) and whenever a see or hear a reference to North Carolina I think of you. You are a sweet and caring guy and a good man to have as a friend.  :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 01, 2010, 02:59:41 pm
Thanks for the information, Truman. That must have been an awfully difficult conversation.

I'm glad Elizabeth got to see her daddy, but--oh, my Lord.  :'(

Interesting that so many of assumed he'd been thrown by his horse, or something like that, but it does sound like Rich, that, apparently, he was waving and calling and greeting people when the accident happened.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: BayCityJohn on August 01, 2010, 03:03:23 pm
Rich loved the song "Meet Me on the Mountain"

I am loving this thread!
I love the song! John, what a fantastic video!
I get the same feeling reading this as i did in the arly days of my love affair with Ennis Jack and the whole BBM experience!

It was just a coincidence (?) that Ryan Harrison posted this video on Youtube today:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZS3VI7ADQY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZS3VI7ADQY)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 01, 2010, 03:11:56 pm
Thanks, John, this way I can see it.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 03:18:14 pm
Aw, Jack, thank you. That sure is more than I deserve! Sorry for this delay, but I turned in right after my last post in the wee hours of today and didn't see yours until, well, now. You were always a delight to have as a traveling companion and roommate (we sure had some adventures, didn't we?) and whenever a see or hear a reference to North Carolina I think of you. You are a sweet and caring guy and a good man to have as a friend.  :)

Thank you Jeff. That really makes me feel good for you to say these things. I do hope to see you again in the near future for more good times and adventures.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 03:20:26 pm
Interesting that so many of assumed he'd been thrown by his horse, or something like that, but it does sound like Rich, that, apparently, he was waving and calling and greeting people when the accident happened.


I believe one of my posts may have led to that assumption.  I think I stated that they were at an event that may have been a horse riding event.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 01, 2010, 03:23:20 pm
Ok, I have spoken to Rich's mother


(((Truman)))

I'm glad Elisabeth got to say goodbye to her daddy.
I'm glad Gene was holding Rich.
Small blessings.
And such great loss.
 :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 03:27:17 pm
I just had the strangest feeling that Rich was reading this thread and wanting so much to post to it. I know that if it were someone else that this had happened to he would be right here with us. I would give anything to see a post come from him. I remember back in the old days of Bettermost when several of us would practically spend the night with each other making post after post about most any topic you can think of. Rich was there so many times.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 01, 2010, 03:28:47 pm
I hope no one minds me butting in on this thread. I appreciate I didn't know Rich, but I'd like to express my sincerest condolences to his family and friends, and everyone who loved him. From what I've been reading he seemed like a very well liked guy. It's pretty obvious he was well loved here.

It's just so sad I wanted to say how sorry I am for you all. Hope no one minds. xxx

Thank kew, and you are quite welcome.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 01, 2010, 03:34:40 pm
Thanks for the information, Truman. That must have been an awfully difficult conversation.



In an odd way we were both so much on the same wavelength. She said it had not hit her yet and I said it was the same for me. It was like having a hitch hiker in the car, someone your very wary of. When it started to get hard for us we let it go until next time.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 03:46:22 pm
I hope that I'm not stepping on any toes here, but I just felt the need to post this.


One member who has not been able to post here is Matthew (ZK).  He's without internet at the moment, but can view BetterMost on his phone.

We've been talking via texts and phone calls.  Matt is stunned and saddened by what has happened.

Rich called Matthew his "twin" due to the facts that they were both dads, recently divorced, gay and had viewed Brokeback for the first time within a month of each other, without having met.

The pic is a little blurry, but......



(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/CopyofHoliday2008030.jpg)

This was taken at my house when Matthew was in the NYC area.  One of the highlights of the trip was that after all the time talking online, Rich and Matt got to meet face to face.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 01, 2010, 03:47:23 pm
I contacted samrim in the UK, and he was getting ready for early communion at St. Lawrence's when he got the message. He said prayers for Gene and Elizabeth there this morning and will continue praying. He asked me to offer his sympathy to Rich's family and friends here and at home.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 01, 2010, 03:50:55 pm
I hope that I'm not stepping on any toes here, but I just felt the need to post this.

One member who has not been able to post here is Matthew (ZK).  He's without internet at the moment, but can view BetterMost on his phone.

We've been talking via texts and phone calls.  Matt is stunned and saddened by what has happened.

Rich called Matthew his "twin" due to the facts that they were both dads, recently divorced, gay and had viewed Brokeback for the first time within a month of each other, without having met.

The pic is a little blurry, but......

(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/CopyofHoliday2008030.jpg)

This was taken at my house when Matthew was in the NYC area.  One of the highlights of the trip was that after all the time talking online, Rich and Matt got to meet face to face.

Sweet picture, Chuck.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 01, 2010, 03:54:12 pm
I hope that I'm not stepping on any toes here, but I just felt the need to post this.


One member who has not been able to post here is Matthew (ZK).  He's without internet at the moment, but can view BetterMost on his phone.

We've been talking via texts and phone calls.  Matt is stunned and saddened by what has happened.

Rich called Matthew his "twin" due to the facts that they were both dads, recently divorced, gay and had viewed Brokeback for the first time within a month of each other, without having met.

The pic is a little blurry, but......



(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/CopyofHoliday2008030.jpg)

This was taken at my house when Matthew was in the NYC area.  One of the highlights of the trip was that after all the time talking online, Rich and Matt got to meet face to face.

I doubt anyone minds, Chuck - rather, I think when Matt gets back online he will appreciate it.

I was telling Ronny some stories last night about that last Virginia trip - the one about how Rich had borrowed Gene's truck and managed to knock off the sideview mirror in Truman's driveway.  (Of course it's just how I remember it, not necessarily 100% correct.)

And then there was how Truman and Rich turned your practical joke around on you/us at the airport - Truman had told us Rich wasn't coming because he couldn't find any gas to get out of Atlanta (remember the shortage at that time?).  They had me googling Atlanta gas stations.  

 ::)

Then they appeared from around the corner - Rich had actually arrived the night before.

I think Rich would want us to tell our stories about him.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 01, 2010, 03:59:26 pm
I think he would too!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 04:00:24 pm
And then there was how Truman and Rich turned your practical joke around on you/us at the airport - Truman had told us Rich wasn't coming because he couldn't find any gas to get out of Atlanta (remember the shortage at that time?).  They had me googling Atlanta gas stations.  

::)

Then they appeared from around the corner - Rich had actually arrived the night before.

I think Rich would want us to tell our stories about him.


 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

OMG!  You and I were trying to prank Truman.....there we were, sitting next to each other, pretending  we couldn't find each other, and then we start hearing from Rich how he can't make it.

And then he comes walking from around the corner.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 04:02:50 pm
In an odd way we were both so much on the same wavelength. She said it had not hit her yet and I said it was the same for me. It was like having a hitch hiker in the car, someone your very wary of. When it started to get hard for us we let it go until next time.

Truman, you may have already told me this yesterday on the phone, but had you ever talked to Rich's mom before yesterday?
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 01, 2010, 04:04:58 pm

 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

OMG!  You and I were trying to prank Truman.....there we were, sitting next to each other, pretending  we couldn't find each other, and then we start hearing from Rich how he can't make it.

And then he comes walking from around the corner.

That's right - we started it with our pretending and they turned it around on us because, ahem, they know you.   ;)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 01, 2010, 04:08:31 pm
Truman, you may have already told me this yesterday on the phone, but had you ever talked to Rich's mom before yesterday?

Yes, we have met a couple of times before.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 01, 2010, 04:11:06 pm
That's right - we started it with our pretending and they turned it around on us because, ahem, they know you.   ;)

Yeah, we were headed to the airport in Gene's vehicle that Rich had got caught on a sassafrass tree in my driveway and busted a side mirror, and we were laughing and carrying on about this great, totally believable joke we could play on you and you all were like unable to find one another, if the Greensboro airport of all places. You could not loose someone there if you wanted too!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 04:13:57 pm
That's right - we started it with our pretending and they turned it around on us because, ahem, they know you.   ;)

Yeah, we were headed to the airport in Gene's vehicle that Rich had got caught on a sassafrass tree in my driveway and busted and we were laughing and carrying on about this great, totally believable joke we could play on you and you all were like unable to find one another, if the Greensboro airport of all places. You could not loose someone there if you wanted too!


 :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:


I remember teasing Rich as being the only "country boy" who would listen to Exposé.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Berit on August 01, 2010, 04:19:13 pm

I think Rich would want us to tell our stories about him.


I think telling stories is a part of handling the greif. It is important and good and nice and sad, all at the same time

20 years ago, on July 2, I found my dad dead  in the bathrom. It looked just like his candle had been blown out. Of course it was a big shock even though I knew he had a heart problem. In the late evening we sat, mom,me and my husband Esbjörn and looked at old photos, told stories, laughed and cried, drank large quantities of tea. It was an important evening for us. We started to take the whole tragedy in, we started to grief. My dad was in a sence present that evening.

So, let us talk about Rich, let us tell stories. In that way he will somehow be presant. But....I so wish he was really presant.......
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 01, 2010, 04:28:30 pm
Yeah, we were headed to the airport in Gene's vehicle that Rich had got caught on a sassafrass tree in my driveway and busted a side mirror, and we were laughing and carrying on about this great, totally believable joke we could play on you and you all were like unable to find one another, if the Greensboro airport of all places. You could not loose someone there if you wanted too!

Greensboro - When I was telling Ronny about it, I couldn't remember what airport - I keep confusing Greensboro and Greenville or something.  Yes, we've navigated Boston Logan, so getting lost there would be pretty impossible.


I think Rich would want us to tell our stories about him.


I think telling stories is a part of handling the greif. It is important and good and nice and sad, all at the same time

20 years ago, on July 2, I found my dad dead  in the bathrom. It looked just like his candle had been blown out. Of course it was a big shock even though I knew he had a heart problem. In the late evening we sat, mom,me and my husband Esbjörn and looked at old photos, told stories, laughed and cried, drank large quantities of tea. It was an important evening for us. We started to take the whole tragedy in, we started to grief. My dad was in a sence present that evening.

So, let us talk about Rich, let us tell stories. In that way he will somehow be presant. But....I so wish he was really presant.......

Berit - I hate that I found your father that way, but I think you are right about the talking and stories being a good way to handle grief.  Even the laughter, which seems inappropriate or disrespectful, is a release.

And I also think that our loved ones are there with us though of course I can't explain it - there's a presence.  I still dream about my grandmother at important times and can even smell her.  I don't doubt Gene for a minute that Rich came to him last night.  And I'm sure your dad was there too.

As we were talking - can it be just yesterday? - that as long as you are remembered - you have life.

Thank you for being here.  {{{{{Berit}}}}}

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 04:30:04 pm
Rich and I often called each other "Country Mouse" and "City Mouse".  He would always kid me about being "city" and not knowing about farm and country life.

One of the times I went to visit Rich & Gene, we were out on a drive.  Rich and Gene in the front seats, and me in the back.

As we were driving around, we passed a large hill on the left.  It had a bunch of cows on it, grazing, and this conversation happens:

Rich:  "Chuck, you see those cows there?"

Chuck:  "Yeah"

Rich:  "Those are Mountain Cows.  They're specially bred to have the legs on one side shorter than the legs on the other, so they can stand on the hill and be level when they eat the grass."

Chuck:  *Looks, tilts head to the side*   "Ummmm....but when they turn around, don't they flop over?"  ???

Rich & Gene:   :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

Gene:  Chuck buddy, I was watching you in the mirror, and I could see the gears turning in your head while you were thinking about that.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 01, 2010, 04:34:40 pm
I was just looking over some old PM's which made me cry and laugh all at the same time.

He was such a great guy. So appreciative of tiny little things, so complementary.

I have a bundle of PM's starting "Hi beautiful" and thanking me for encouraging him that kids can be just fine in split-parent families.

I saw one there where he tells me about the Jam he sent me.. all wraped up in a brown box with christmas trees drawn all over it in a black marker pen!

It was using a fruit I hadn't heard of.... Georgia Muscadines right off the vine. And he had said:

Quote
I sent some to Chrissi too but only you guys. I hope no one else gets jealous! LOL

There was PMs back from 2007 when it was Bizzy's birthday party and we were reciting High School Musical lyrics to each other via PM. He was so cute, so excited to make the party best ever.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 04:37:21 pm
That's hilarious Chuck!!! I can almost see the look on your face  :) I do like the part where you wonder what happens when they turn the other way around  ;)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 01, 2010, 04:54:36 pm
I was just looking over some old PM's which made me cry and laugh all at the same time.
He was such a great guy. So appreciative of tiny little things, so complementary.
I have a bundle of PM's starting "Hi beautiful" and thanking me for encouraging him that kids can be just fine in split-parent families.
I saw one there where he tells me about the Jam he sent me.. all wraped up in a brown box with christmas trees drawn all over it in a black marker pen!
It was using a fruit I hadn't heard of.... Georgia Muscadines right off the vine. And he had said:
There was PMs back from 2007 when it was Bizzy's birthday party and we were reciting High School Musical lyrics to each other via PM. He was so cute, so excited to make the party best ever.

{{{{{{{KELDA}}}}}}} I've been doing the same thing--looking at old PM's from Rich. He always had something sweet to say, didn't he?
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 01, 2010, 05:03:37 pm
I was just looking over some old PM's which made me cry and laugh all at the same time.

I will do the same at some point in the next few days.
Today I was rereading Rich's and my short PM exchange from only three days ago, 7/29/10.
Then I realized for the first time, that FB has an "unread messages" function, and it said I had six undread ones. One was from Rich, but all six were not really unread. I don't know why FB decides to make the goof-ups it does.

Quote
I saw one there where he tells me about the Jam he sent me.. all wraped up in a brown box with christmas trees drawn all over it in a black marker pen!

It was using a fruit I hadn't heard of.... Georgia Muscadines right off the vine. And he had said:



I also hadn't heard of muscadine and looked it up on wikipedia, back then. The jam is long eaten, my husband threw away the glass because it had such a strange lid (I always had to use a knife to get it open). But believe it or not: I still have the box Rich sent the jam in. I'm such a sentimental fool sometimes. Mine is also decorated with the black marker pen.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 01, 2010, 05:19:28 pm
Chrissi...

I also kept the box up until a few weeks ago when I threw it out in our big moving house clear out. I'm kicking myself now.

I still have the jam jar though - also packed a few weeks ago with other kitchen stuff - as it was a funky marbled glass jar, but you're right about the lid, it was difficult to open.

Shasta ...

Yes, he always did.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 01, 2010, 05:24:00 pm
Chrissi...

I also kept the box up until a few weeks ago when I threw it out in our big moving house clear out. I'm kicking myself now.

I still have the jam jar though - also packed a few weeks ago with other kitchen stuff - as it was a funky marbled glass jar, but you're right about the lid, it was difficult to open.

Shasta ...

Yes, he always did.

Yes, the glass was pretty, I liked it also. I would have kept it and used for something different. But hubby was quicker.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 01, 2010, 05:40:31 pm
I know that Rich would not want me kicking myself about this - but he sent me a Christmas card, I think maybe for the past two years, and I never answered.  I'm not very Christmas card-functional.  Actually, several of you have, and I'm very sorry I didn't thank you. 
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: j.U.d.E. on August 01, 2010, 05:45:47 pm
Hi there! Haven't been on BM for forever.. but received an e-mail about Rich. It's so very sad. And the way it happened..!  :'(

I hope the rest of you all are ok!

HUGS & LOVE, C.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 01, 2010, 05:49:37 pm
I know that Rich would not want me kicking myself about this - but he sent me a Christmas card, I think maybe for the past two years, and I never answered.  I'm not very Christmas card-functional.  Actually, several of you have, and I'm very sorry I didn't thank you.

Don't be hard on yourself, Elle.  That's just how real life goes sometimes.  One year, I got them started and only got to the D's and gave up..or maybe F's.  People understand.  And if they're the right kind of people, they are happy to give and not expect receiving in return, necessarily.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: MaineWriter on August 01, 2010, 05:51:28 pm
I've been on the computer all weekend, working on a project, but away from websites, FB, etc. so just now did I log on and see this terrible, terrible news.

Oh my God, I'm in shock!

I never met Rich in person, but I remember when he first came to Bettermost. He had seen the movie and was struggling so (like we all did/do)--and dealing with his own self-discoveries, making a decision about divorce, so terribly worried about his little girl...

I've seen so many pictures of him and heard over and over again what a terrific guy he was. I wish I could have met him in person, just like there are so many Brokies here I would love to meet--and haven't yet. And now Rich is gone.

I remember how upset he was when his father died. I know they are together now, happy and at peace.

My heart is breaking for all of us. Prayers, thoughts, and healing energy to all his loved ones, friends, and family -- especially all his Brokie friends and all of us.

L
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 06:47:37 pm
She told further, that last night Rich came to Gene in a dream. He told him that he was turning to sit down next to him, lost his balance and fell, his face striking the trailer hitch, at which point all went dark.

I've been thinking about whether or not to post this........

I remember years ago my grandfather came to me in a dream after he had passed.  It was very vivid and distinct.  I can still remember this dream to this day.

I believe that these visitations happen, and last night before I drifted off to sleep, the last thought I have that I could remember was "Gene is gonna see Rich tonight."
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: HerrKaiser on August 01, 2010, 06:49:58 pm
I just saw this by chance. It's almost too numbing to type; I'll make no pitiful attempt to find words where there are none to express the loss everyone feels. We were friends; one very rare and unique safe haven for me to talk to. And I know others as well. Two weeks ago such eagerness and joy in is voice; now gone. He had love in his heart and faith in God. A complete person who is exemplory of what is good about people. I thought this kind of pain wouldn't return so soon, and oh how unbearable the pain for Gene and the family. Why do miracles not happen as we need them too?
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 01, 2010, 07:18:45 pm
Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and for reaching out to BetterMost. If you have been gone for awhile, stay a spell, have a cup of coffee, a piece a cherry cake (or not). It's comforting to see old friends and know that you are doing okay.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 07:19:33 pm
Hiya Brokies.

I just got off the phone with Gene.  He's doing as well as could be expected.

He wanted me to pass along to you all that he appreciates the love and support that you all have offered him here as well as on the Whiskey Springs FB page.

He's trying to keep in touch with everyone, but he's really overwhelmed.

Rich has been cremated and is ashes are split between Rich's mom, Bizzy, and Gene.

There will be a memorial service on Saturday August 7th at 3:00.

At one point in perhaps the spring or summer, Gene plans to take Rich's ashes to Brokenback and spread them.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 01, 2010, 07:19:55 pm
His Mamma said he had not come told her anything, yet. I told her he will, in time. He will come see us all, I an't sure how all that works but it seems too.

I was just thinking of something, do you remember when we used to call him Lee, and then it was like Lee on bettermost and Rich off bettermost....
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 01, 2010, 07:22:31 pm


At one point in perhaps the spring or summer, Gene plans to take Rich's ashes to Brokenback and spread them.

Oh god, it hit me, it has hit me now.

Well, he won't have to go alone.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 07:23:49 pm
I was just thinking of something, do you remember when we used to call him Lee, and then it was like Lee on bettermost and Rich off bettermost....

I remember that Tru!  We all called him "Lee" here, and then he just decided it would be Rich.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 01, 2010, 07:31:00 pm
Thanks for the information, Chuck.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 01, 2010, 07:33:26 pm
Chuck, where will the services be? Do you know will it be a church service or a memorial service?
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 07:47:33 pm
Gene didn't give specifics.  He'll be in touch.

He also said he'll get to us asap about the information regarding the trust fund for Bizzy.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: j.U.d.E. on August 01, 2010, 08:12:23 pm
I remember that Tru!  We all called him "Lee" here, and then he just decided it would be Rich.
I remember that too..

Quote
At one point in perhaps the spring or summer, Gene plans to take Rich's ashes to Brokenback and spread them.
OOooooh!  :(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 01, 2010, 08:13:50 pm
I'd like to know too, Chuck. It helps to focus prayer.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 01, 2010, 08:17:22 pm

Pretty music--

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_kgc8j8GVU[/youtube]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_kgc8j8GVU


I took my love, I took it down
I climbed a mountain and I turned around
And I saw my reflection in the snow covered hills
’til the landslide brought it down

Oh, mirror in the sky, what is love?
Can the child within my heart rise above?
Can I sail through the changing ocean tides?
Can I handle the seasons of my life?

Well, I’ve been afraid of changing cause i’ve
Built my life around you
But time makes you bolder
Even children get older
And I’m getting older, too

Well, I’ve been afraid of changing cause i’ve
Built my life around you
Time makes you bolder
Even children get older
And I’m getting older, too
I get older, too

I took my love and took it down
I climbed a mountain, I turned around
And if you see my reflection in the snow covered hills
The landslide brought it down
The landslide brought it down
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: j.U.d.E. on August 01, 2010, 08:17:26 pm
I never met Rich in person, but I remember when he first came to Bettermost. He had seen the movie and was struggling so (like we all did/do)--and dealing with his own self-discoveries, making a decision about divorce, so terribly worried about his little girl...
L., I remember that too! Ooo gosh, yes, he was having to make big decisions and was quite worried about what his daughter would say or think. I remember he was very thankful for the advice and help he got from the Brokies here..

So very very sad..  :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Katie77 on August 01, 2010, 08:42:34 pm
I didn't know Rich, cant even remember if we ever exchanged posts. But I knew he was around these places. Heard is name mentioned many many times. Had an opportunity to meet him, at a rodeo in Ft Lauderdale, but I didn't get there. Im sorry bout that, wish I had now.

So last night I decided to meet this man, who I was grieving, who's loss has made me incredibly sad, who made such an impact on the people here, who has gone too soon.

I logged in to his posts, starting at the beginning when he first came on here, reading about how he was going 'crazy' and couldn't understand why, and it was  all over this dam movie Brokeback Mountain. Sometimes I giggled reading his reactions, and remembering my own identical ones. There was no doubt it was in his soul, in his being.

I have much more to read, much more to know about this bloke Rich. Thankfully, he has written it all down here, where he was free to talk about anything and everything that was going on in his mind and his heart. He will never be gone, while ever he is thought of, while ever he is remembered, while ever his words are here for us to share.

Dear Rich, some of us never got to meet you, but that doesn't change the fact, that we still shared all those same feelings,  found something here, that would change us, make us better, link us with lifetime friends to love and guide us. We were all chosen to share this and thats why I miss you now. Go on up to that mountain dear friend.

(http://i220.photobucket.com/albums/dd7/suekat777/RidingCloud-3.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 01, 2010, 08:45:41 pm

At one point in perhaps the spring or summer, Gene plans to take Rich's ashes to Brokenback and spread them.



 :)  I think Rich would really like that.  He always wanted to make it to Wyoming.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: David In Indy on August 01, 2010, 08:56:06 pm
His Mamma said he had not come told her anything, yet. I told her he will, in time. He will come see us all, I an't sure how all that works but it seems too.

I was just thinking of something, do you remember when we used to call him Lee, and then it was like Lee on bettermost and Rich off bettermost....

Something strange happened to me yesterday evening, shortly after Rich passed. The upstairs part of the house suddenly started smelling of incense. I thought maybe something was on fire because I haven't burned incense in this house in a very long time. I could even smell it on the stairs as I went down to investigate. The odor was faint. But it was there. When I came back upstairs it was gone. I started wondering if perhaps it might have been Rich stopping by for a minute to say goodbye. I told a friend about it and she said it could have been my angels surrounding me because I was so upset and they wanted to comfort me. Then again it could have been just my imagination. Whatever it was it made me think about Richard for a while.

Maybe that was the whole point. :-\

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: David In Indy on August 01, 2010, 09:00:10 pm
I remember that Tru!  We all called him "Lee" here, and then he just decided it would be Rich.

I remember that too. At first I thought his name was Lee because of his screen name. Before long I learned his name was Rich, although I often called him Richard. He didn't seem to care. In fact he signed on of his Christmas cards as Richard. In the other card he used the name Rich. :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Meryl on August 01, 2010, 09:01:40 pm
Oh god, it hit me, it has hit me now.

Me, too.  :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 09:15:19 pm
My parents arrived home a short while ago.

They have had the opportunity to meet a few of the brokies, in Feb. of last year they met Matthew and Rich when they visited here.  They had a full Italian meal with my family and my parents loved the both of them.

Rich would mail my mom, sending her his jelly, and sent her a bottle of cobalt blue glass, which my mom likes.  In turn, my mom would make packages up for me to take to Rich & Gene on my visits.

We just all had a hard cry on the couch in the livingroom.







(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/Friday%2013th%20gathering%20NYC/Holiday2008030.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: MaineWriter on August 01, 2010, 09:16:42 pm
I've been thinking about whether or not to post this........

I remember years ago my grandfather came to me in a dream after he had passed.  It was very vivid and distinct.  I can still remember this dream to this day.

I believe that these visitations happen, and last night before I drifted off to sleep, the last thought I have that I could remember was "Gene is gonna see Rich tonight."

Heath came to visit me (I posted about it here at Bettermost) as well as another friend (before Heath) and my father (after he died last summer). It's not a dream...it's real. I am sure Rich will be visiting many Brokies here. Open your minds and hearts to the experience. It's quite wonderful when it happens, even if it is a little puzzling at first.

Kerry knows what I am talking about.

L
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 01, 2010, 09:18:19 pm
{{{{{Chuck}}}}}

This is just all so senseless and unbelievable and random.  I am so sorry.

I was thinking that this song, though from a female point of view, speaks to me and maybe it will others.

From our other standard, Latter Days - Hymn for Those Left Behind:

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmJabTJAqAY[/youtube]
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: MaineWriter on August 01, 2010, 09:21:27 pm
Rich loved that movie...Latter Days. Thanks for that clip, Lynne.

L
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ohiomyown on August 01, 2010, 09:21:45 pm
His Mamma said he had not come told her anything, yet. I told her he will, in time. He will come see us all, I an't sure how all that works but it seems too.

I was just thinking of something, do you remember when we used to call him Lee, and then it was like Lee on bettermost and Rich off bettermost....

I certainly remember that,  and since I am not on here very much,  part of me still wants to call him Lee.  But as you say,  he is Rich in person.

Good memories from that time long ago when we were all just meeting him.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 01, 2010, 09:30:50 pm
Heath came to visit me (I posted about it here at Bettermost) as well as another friend (before Heath) and my father (after he died last summer). It's not a dream...it's real. I am sure Rich will be visiting many Brokies here. Open your minds and hearts to the experience. It's quite wonderful when it happens, even if it is a little puzzling at first.

Kerry knows what I am talking about.

L

I've never been blessed with an experience like that.  :(  But I'm sure it is a blessing to those of you who have had the experience.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 01, 2010, 09:35:31 pm
All week I've been planning that this weekend I would sew a baby quilt for my sister's immanent new daughter.  I asked Mr. Meno to plan long days out for himself and Mini-Meno on both Saturday and Sunday, and I would sew, sew, sew.  

Then the news about Rich happened, and I wasn't sure I could focus on the quilt, but I did.  So all I've done this weekend is be here with you all, and sew.  Rich and you were very present for me while I worked most of the hours I was awake.  I started and finished the quilt top:

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h257/Ellemeno_2006/photo-5.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 09:37:38 pm
I know that Rich would not want me kicking myself about this - but he sent me a Christmas card, I think maybe for the past two years, and I never answered.  I'm not very Christmas card-functional.  Actually, several of you have, and I'm very sorry I didn't thank you. 

I seriously doubt that Rich expected any thank yous or cards for the card he sent you. I usually send out quite a few of them, but this past year so many things came up that I didn't get any sent out. I never send any out expecting any thanks or cards in return. This past year I received more Christmas cards then I have ever received. And yes I also got one from Rich. I got one from him every year I have known him. He always sent very special cards.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 01, 2010, 09:37:53 pm
That is beautiful C., and a LOT of work.  :) Your niece will look adorable swaddled in it.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 09:38:55 pm
Fantastic work on the quilt, Clarissa.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 09:40:23 pm
Oh god, it hit me, it has hit me now.

Well, he won't have to go alone.

That's for sure Truman!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 01, 2010, 09:40:24 pm
It is a lovely quilt, something she'll be able to keep and treasure. Maybe even use it for her own daughter, some day.  :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 09:47:16 pm
I remember that too. At first I thought his name was Lee because of his screen name. Before long I learned his name was Rich, although I often called him Richard. He didn't seem to care. In fact he signed on of his Christmas cards as Richard. In the other card he used the name Rich. :)

I called him both Richard and Rich and I still do. I asked him about it one time and he said either was fine.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 01, 2010, 09:49:39 pm
That quilt is beautiful!!!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ohiomyown on August 01, 2010, 10:20:29 pm
C, I'm glad at least one of us was productive this weekend.  That quilt is quite a feat, and it's a precious gift that will last a lifetime for your niece.

It may be hard for you to look at it now, as attached as it is to this weekend and the sad passing of Rich.  But I think eventually you will feel good about having made it at this time.

hugs,
Judy
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 01, 2010, 10:36:50 pm
Thanks everyone, I do feel good that the quilt is entwined with Rich.  He was such a devoted father.  I loved and admired that about him a great deal.

Clarissa
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 01, 2010, 10:45:46 pm
The quilt is gorgeous, Clarissa - I agree with what everyone has said - it's nice that you have memories of Rich attached to it.

Tonight I took out my hardback copy of Brokeback Mountain to read the story aloud to Ronny, who has only seen the film.  Some of you may remember this book - I toted it around and got autographs until it was rained on earlier this year and then I retired it.  I could still throttle that landlord and his leaky roof over this.

Ronny did have the good idea that we should scan all the pages with autographs so as not to lose them.

Anyhow, when I opened it, the first thing that jumps out at me and catches my eye inside the front cover is this big signature "Rich".

 :'(

Here's what he wrote - punctuation, capitalization, and line placement are exact.

"Lynne,
What a Joy it has been getting to know you.
This ain't no little thing ya know!
Look forward to many more years of good times.
From Don Wroe's cabin
9-28-08
Love,
Rich"

 :'( :'( :'(

I really hate that he doesn't have those more years.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 01, 2010, 10:50:18 pm
The quilt is gorgeous, Clarissa - I agree with what everyone has said - it's nice that you have memories of Rich attached to it.

Tonight I took out my hardback copy of Brokeback Mountain to read the story aloud to Ronny, who has only seen the film.  Some of you may remember this book - I toted it around and got autographs until it was rained on earlier this year and then I retired it.  I could still throttle that landlord and his leaky roof over this.

Ronny did have the good idea that we should scan all the pages with autographs so as not to lose them.

Anyhow, when I opened it, the first thing that jumps out at me and catches my eye inside the front cover is this big signature "Rich".

 :'(

Here's what he wrote - punctuation, capitalization, and line placement are exact.

"Lynne,
What a Joy it has been getting to know you.
This ain't no little thing ya know!
Look forward to many more years of good times.
From Don Wroe's cabin
9-28-08
Love,
Rich"

 :'( :'( :'(

I really hate that he doesn't have those more years.

{{{{{{{{LYNNE}}}}}}}} That is so nice. You have a treasure there.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 01, 2010, 10:56:00 pm
{{{{{{{{LYNNE}}}}}}}} That is so nice. You have a treasure there.

I do indeed, Shasta.  Thank you.  {{{{{Shasta}}}}}

A little piece of him and his dreams for the future.  And I have priceless memories too of the time we had together, which was too brief, but nonetheless intense and intimate the way meeting some Brokies tends to be.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 01, 2010, 11:50:37 pm

Rich loved BBM Radio.  He listened to it all the time.

I've taken some of the songs people have posted on here and on Facebook for Rich and have added them to the radio playlist.   :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dontwanttosayGB on August 02, 2010, 12:30:52 am

I really hate that he doesn't have those more years.

Yes, that is the saddest part...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 02, 2010, 12:43:05 am
Rich loved BBM Radio.  He listened to it all the time.

I've taken some of the songs people have posted on here and on Facebook for Rich and have added them to the radio playlist.   :)

Thank you, Eric.  I couldn't get BBM Radio to work for me yesterday, but I will try again.  As I just posted over in my blog, I'm definitely using music to help.  It's a distraction but at the same time seems to give all my random thoughts some focus.

 :-* :-* :-*
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 02, 2010, 01:31:14 am
I've also been thinking about Rich's courage to make really big changes.  He took big risks and found a beautiful life.  When he took the first steps to come out, he didn't know he would find Gene.  He was afraid he would lose his daughter, whom he always makes very clear is the light of his life.  He was afraid he would lose his family's respect, but he didn't.  He had a lot to risk, and he risked it.  And he found a beautiful life.

I've often thought of Rich with admiration.

These are the same qualities that I have always admired about Rich. He truly made all of these steps and he did find that beautiful life. He accomplished more in these few short years than many of us will ever accomplish.


You can say that twice and mean it!!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: RouxB on August 02, 2010, 03:57:37 am
I have been without computer for a few days attending my family reunion-Elle sent me texts with the sad news. It was pretty surreal trying to be present for my family when my mind was here. Neither the hotel lobby nor my brother's house seemed the right place to face this tragic turn of events. Or maybe I just kept putting it off because I didn't want to face it. So here I am now, crying on my couch in the comfort of my own home with friends around me.

After hearing so much about Rich, I was finally able to met him in New York last year. Every glowing and gushing praise of him was true.

I believe (Heath made me believe) in the infinite possibility. The people that you love in life have a way making their presence known after they leave.
My heart goes out to all of us.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 02, 2010, 04:01:27 am
Can't see the quilt here at work Clarissa, but I bet it looks wonderful, and I'm glad you accomplished that tover the weekend and tis cool that you could concentrate won it when thinking of Rich - as you say the devoted father.

Leslie, Kerry, Chuck, Lynne and others who mentioned it - I also am happy for Gene that Rich came to him. I hope he comes to Gene again. And others too.

Lee, so true so true, hello to brokies new and old. It nice to see you here, adding some kind words.

Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and for reaching out to BetterMost. If you have been gone for awhile, stay a spell, have a cup of coffee, a piece a cherry cake (or not). It's comforting to see old friends and know that you are doing okay.

I have a sympathy card now here sitting in my desk. I don't want to write it. It's true then. But I also need to think carefully about what I will write.

Chuck. please tell Gene not to worry about replying to messages from people, on here, on facebook or wherever. People understand what he's going through but just want to give him a little support. They don't need a reply.

Kelda
x

(((Brokies)))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 02, 2010, 06:06:18 am
Thanks everyone, I do feel good that the quilt is entwined with Rich.  He was such a devoted father.  I loved and admired that about him a great deal.

Clarissa

Yes.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 02, 2010, 06:09:28 am
Rich loved BBM Radio.  He listened to it all the time.

I've taken some of the songs people have posted on here and on Facebook for Rich and have added them to the radio playlist.   :)

Great idea!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 02, 2010, 06:29:32 am
The quilt is gorgeous, Clarissa - I agree with what everyone has said - it's nice that you have memories of Rich attached to it.

Tonight I took out my hardback copy of Brokeback Mountain to read the story aloud to Ronny, who has only seen the film.  Some of you may remember this book - I toted it around and got autographs until it was rained on earlier this year and then I retired it.  I could still throttle that landlord and his leaky roof over this.

Ronny did have the good idea that we should scan all the pages with autographs so as not to lose them.

Anyhow, when I opened it, the first thing that jumps out at me and catches my eye inside the front cover is this big signature "Rich".

 :'(

Here's what he wrote - punctuation, capitalization, and line placement are exact.

"Lynne,
What a Joy it has been getting to know you.
This ain't no little thing ya know!
Look forward to many more years of good times.
From Don Wroe's cabin
9-28-08
Love,
Rich"

 :'( :'( :'(

I really hate that he doesn't have those more years.


(((Lynne)))

I had similar thoughts yesterday. I have many autographs of my Brokies friends in my STS book. It has travelled literally thousands of miles with me, I have taken it into my hands countless times. It starts to fall apart, and I handle it with much care now, because it is such a treasure.
And yesterday I thought, now I will never get Rich's autograph in my beloved book. Just another random and sad thought in all this.
 :'(


Thanks for sharing Rich's entry in your book.

Quote
I really hate that he doesn't have those more years.

He should have many more years to have that sweet life with Gene. And by all means he should see his daughter grow up into the beautiful young woman one can already sense in some of the newer pics.

My thoughts keep going back to Gene and Elisabeth. It's just so unfair.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: sel on August 02, 2010, 07:00:40 am
I am deeply saddened. I have been crying since I have found about it earlier.
I haven't followed BM in a while, in the past I used to follow it on and off,  I don't follow any blog in particular but, can't remember what now, a particular post drew me to Rich's blog. I  liked what he said, how he talked, how beautiful his pics were, and above all he seemed sooo happy with his sweet life. I didn't know him as well as you guys, not by far, but from what I knew of him  he was the kind of person it was impossible not to like, and  what you have written here is a demonstration of that.  
I am thinking of Elisabeth, Gene, his closest family and everyone who loved him.
I used to love his  old signature: "I redlined it all the way".
 :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 02, 2010, 07:05:19 am
I am deeply saddened. I have been crying since I have found about it earlier.
I haven't followed BM in a while, in the past I used to follow it on and off,  I don't follow any blog in particular but, can't remember what now, a particular post drew me to Rich's blog. I  liked what he said, how he talked, how beautiful his pics were, and above all he seemed sooo happy with his sweet life. I didn't know him as well as you guys, not by far, but from what I knew of him  he was the kind of person it was impossible not to like, and  what you have written here is a demonstration of that.  
I am thinking of Elisabeth, Gene, his closest family and everyone who loved him.
I used to love his  old signature: "I redlined it all the way".
 :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(

((Sel))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 02, 2010, 09:16:45 am
After hearing so much about Rich, I was finally able to met him in New York last year. Every glowing and gushing praise of him was true.

Tell you what, all the changes that Rich made in his life, he was a braver person than I'll ever be.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: optom3 on August 02, 2010, 10:27:32 am
He was indeed brave in so many ways and  as with so many Brokies helped give me the will to carry on and pick up the pieces yet again.
It all hit me in an overwhelming rush again today. Maybe because I had been reading old pms and listening to BBM .C.D.
My love goes to all the wonderful friends he had here, who will all be dealing with grief in whatever way they can. I know some of you were extremely close to him and it must hurt real bad. xxx
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 02, 2010, 12:20:42 pm
I have been without computer for a few days attending my family reunion-Elle sent me texts with the sad news. It was pretty surreal trying to be present for my family when my mind was here. Neither the hotel lobby nor my brother's house seemed the right place to face this tragic turn of events. Or maybe I just kept putting it off because I didn't want to face it. So here I am now, crying on my couch in the comfort of my own home with friends around me.

After hearing so much about Rich, I was finally able to met him in New York last year. Every glowing and gushing praise of him was true.

I believe (Heath made me believe) in the infinite possibility. The people that you love in life have a way making their presence known after they leave.
My heart goes out to all of us.


{{{{{Roux}}}}}  I'm very glad you got to meet Rich - a very special man with a good heart - sincere in every way.



(((Lynne)))

I had similar thoughts yesterday. I have many autographs of my Brokies friends in my STS book. It has travelled literally thousands of miles with me, I have taken it into my hands countless times. It starts to fall apart, and I handle it with much care now, because it is such a treasure.
And yesterday I thought, now I will never get Rich's autograph in my beloved book. Just another random and sad thought in all this.
 :'(


Thanks for sharing Rich's entry in your book.

He should have many more years to have that sweet life with Gene. And by all means he should see his daughter grow up into the beautiful young woman one can already sense in some of the newer pics.

My thoughts keep going back to Gene and Elisabeth. It's just so unfair.

Thank you, Chrissi.  I hate that you never got to meet Rich, but I will tell you one thing - he would have absolutely loved you - you would have clicked immediately, I believe.

Elizabeth is on my mind and won't go away.  I don't have a lot of free funds right now (family stuff), but I hope to set up a regular deposit of a small amount weekly into that account.  We're going to see that she gets the education that her father would have wanted for her.  And I also want us to try to make her graduations - high school and college and any more schooling she decides embark upon.  I really hope it's possible to stay in touch with her, keep an eye on how she is.  People drift and I don't want to let that happen.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: brokeplex on August 02, 2010, 12:25:57 pm
been up in WY, just heard the news. I so saddened that he has been taken away. May he rest in the arms of Jesus, and may his family be comforted in knowing how happy and contented he became over the past years.

Bill
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 02, 2010, 12:27:23 pm
I am deeply saddened. I have been crying since I have found about it earlier.
I haven't followed BM in a while, in the past I used to follow it on and off,  I don't follow any blog in particular but, can't remember what now, a particular post drew me to Rich's blog. I  liked what he said, how he talked, how beautiful his pics were, and above all he seemed sooo happy with his sweet life. I didn't know him as well as you guys, not by far, but from what I knew of him  he was the kind of person it was impossible not to like, and  what you have written here is a demonstration of that.  
I am thinking of Elisabeth, Gene, his closest family and everyone who loved him.
I used to love his  old signature: "I redlined it all the way".
 :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(

I'm very glad you made your way back here, Sel.  And it's wonderful that you knew Rich through his blog.  I had forgotten that signature, but that was him.  He said red-lined, but I'm thinking that he did things at 'full throttle' as well - put his entire self into the important things.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 02, 2010, 12:30:20 pm
Tell you what, all the changes that Rich made in his life, he was a braver person than I'll ever be.

I don't know about braver because that's a hard quality to measure, Jeff, and we're always hardest on ourselves.  But Rich definitely was brave in all he endured during the trials he encountered along his difficult path.  He took control of his own destiny and built what he dreamed of.  He was a man worthy of all the esteem we have for him.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 02, 2010, 12:32:04 pm
been up in WY, just heard the news. I so saddened that he has been taken away. May he rest in the arms of Jesus, and may his family be comforted in knowing how happy and contented he became over the past years.

Bill

Thank you, Bill.  I'm glad you are back and sorry that your trip had to end with this sad news awaiting you.  Thank you for your good wishes.  You did have quite a bit in common and I know that you will miss him greatly.

{{{{Bill}}}}
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 02, 2010, 12:40:07 pm
I feel sad and would like to hear how you are all doing.  Since we are separated by distance, I can't just look across the room at you and sigh together.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 02, 2010, 01:26:03 pm
From the thread when Truman and Rich first met in 2007:


I wish I could convey the time we had.
For me it was like having a weekend with my long lost brother.
We had so much fun! It was like we shoved a lifetime into a few days. I got to share a glimpse of my life with someone I cared about.
This is the true legacy of the movie. Finding frendships where none were expected.
Forging bonds that time or distance can't touch.
Were it not for a weather worn old cowboy in a bar in Wyoming that got Annie thnking none of us would be here.
I shudder to think of how much less my life would be.
Thank you Annie for writing about Jack and Ennis and showing us the way home!



I agree with you whole heartedly little brother, I think that is what I keep coming back too, over and over, this whole experence, starting with Annie Proulx going to that bar on that night, is like an miricle that continues to unfold day after day, some new facet, some new story.

Thank you for a wonderful time. I look forward to getting my thoughts together about it. I am glad we posted the pics, I am glad we have all these words, all of us. They are not only important right now, but in a hundred or a thousand years, our skidmark acrost time. When a group of people finally steped out into the light.

Your Mom is right, we are lucky to be living in this time.


Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: brokeplex on August 02, 2010, 01:28:51 pm
Thank you, Bill.  I'm glad you are back and sorry that your trip had to end with this sad news awaiting you.  Thank you for your good wishes.  You did have quite a bit in common and I know that you will miss him greatly.

{{{{Bill}}}}
I hope the best for his little girl. She is about 13? This will be a traumatic blow to her and she will need prayer and emotional support. Losing anyone who makes the type of journey that Rich made out of confusion and frustration and into clarity and contentment is a great blow. I can not help but think of the Brokeback Mtn  character Bobby Twist losing his father at about the same age.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 02, 2010, 01:49:53 pm
From the thread when Truman and Rich first met in 2007:




Well that was the first time I went down to Atlanta, one of two times. But the first time actually met was going to the rodeo in California on the 14th of September AD 2007, this was what I wrote at the time:

"In the days leading up to the departure I could see esseffjoe in my head, his eyes over his glasses telling me: there are no coincidences.

So I sent Lee a pm with my flight schedule and in minutes had my confirmation: we were on the same damn flight out of Atlanta. Yee-Haw! "I'll be wearing my cowboy hat" I told him.

That night before I packed my bag with stuff I would never use and at 4 am began the sickening ride to the airport, realizing I should have got up a half hour earlier, running to get to the gate, damn if I missed this flight.....there are no coincidences....I exhaled.

Gate T3, ATL, 7:30 or so in the morning, I have seen his picture, know I will recognize him, where is...there he is. "Hey Buddy!" after all these months the only question I still had was his height, which turned out to be about the same as mine, Rock Hudson with better hair. We find we can indeed change our seat assignments, are given two seats in a section of three, and the third never shows. It is the best possible way to cross the continent: with a good friend and a series of Bourbons. We laughed and cut up and told our stories and carried on like two giggling teenagers, like we had know each other since we were born. I am sure the women in the row ahead of us had an earfull.

Arriving in SFO I get the call from Judy, she is there waiting by the bagage claim, and we stop to have one more drink, so as to give our bags time to get there. Here she is, the answer lady, the one who has been on so many of the same paths I take I feel like I can ask her what to expect next. We are the happiest people in the airport that day, I am sure."

(I still have those minibottles, had an idead I would make Xmess tree decorations of them, but never did.)

After going on with several other events I catch up with him at the dance that night:

"And Lee? He had morphed into the night blooming Sirius, the plant that every Granny in Virginia used to have on her porch in the summer time, in a big pot, hauled in each winter so that once ever seven years it would bloom, for one night, at midnight, and all the grandchildren would stay up and watch. It was midnight, and he was in full bloom. He staggered over to me and put his arms around me and hollered in my ear: I am having such a good time and other endearments.

"You have a friend for life" I told him. I wasn't just speaking for me. Now, he can be a friend to himself as well."

And here it is:

(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=654.0;attach=14289;image)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 02, 2010, 01:55:51 pm
I feel sad and would like to hear how you are all doing.  Since we are separated by distance, I can't just look across the room at you and sigh together.


I'm sitting in my cube and plotting going for a walk so that I can get some air.....no outright sobbing, but the eyes have filled with tears a number of times.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 02, 2010, 02:08:01 pm
I hope the best for his little girl. She is about 13? This will be a traumatic blow to her and she will need prayer and emotional support. Losing anyone who makes the type of journey that Rich made out of confusion and frustration and into clarity and contentment is a great blow. I can not help but think of the Brokeback Mtn  character Bobby Twist losing his father at about the same age.

She's 12.  :-\


I'm sitting in my cube and plotting going for a walk so that I can get some air.....no outright sobbing, but the eyes have filled with tears a number of times.

(((Chuck)))

Tru....another great story.. you should do professional writing.. you have a real way with words.


Clarissa - thanks for finding those quotes.  :-* And I love your quilt btw, now that I can see it at home.

Lynnie
..


Elizabeth is on my mind and won't go away.  I don't have a lot of free funds right now (family stuff), but I hope to set up a regular deposit of a small amount weekly into that account.  We're going to see that she gets the education that her father would have wanted for her.  And I also want us to try to make her graduations - high school and college and any more schooling she decides embark upon.  I really hope it's possible to stay in touch with her, keep an eye on how she is.  People drift and I don't want to let that happen.

My thoughts exactly.. I actually wrote her her own sympathy card today, along with one for Gene. I'll let Gene decide if its appropriate to give it to her, but I said the same, your Daddy treated me like family so I want to return the favour.

Also do we have more details re the fund?
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 02, 2010, 02:18:56 pm
Well that was the first time I went down to Atlanta, one of two times. But the first time actually met was going to the rodeo in California on the 14th of September AD 2007, this was what I wrote at the time:

"In the days leading up to the departure I could see esseffjoe in my head, his eyes over his glasses telling me: there are no coincidences.

So I sent Lee a pm with my flight schedule and in minutes had my confirmation: we were on the same damn flight out of Atlanta. Yee-Haw! "I'll be wearing my cowboy hat" I told him.

That night before I packed my bag with stuff I would never use and at 4 am began the sickening ride to the airport, realizing I should have got up a half hour earlier, running to get to the gate, damn if I missed this flight.....there are no coincidences....I exhaled.

Gate T3, ATL, 7:30 or so in the morning, I have seen his picture, know I will recognize him, where is...there he is. "Hey Buddy!" after all these months the only question I still had was his height, which turned out to be about the same as mine, Rock Hudson with better hair. We find we can indeed change our seat assignments, are given two seats in a section of three, and the third never shows. It is the best possible way to cross the continent: with a good friend and a series of Bourbons. We laughed and cut up and told our stories and carried on like two giggling teenagers, like we had know each other since we were born. I am sure the women in the row ahead of us had an earfull.

Arriving in SFO I get the call from Judy, she is there waiting by the bagage claim, and we stop to have one more drink, so as to give our bags time to get there. Here she is, the answer lady, the one who has been on so many of the same paths I take I feel like I can ask her what to expect next. We are the happiest people in the airport that day, I am sure."

(I still have those minibottles, had an idead I would make Xmess tree decorations of them, but never did.)

After going on with several other events I catch up with him at the dance that night:

"And Lee? He had morphed into the night blooming Sirius, the plant that every Granny in Virginia used to have on her porch in the summer time, in a big pot, hauled in each winter so that once ever seven years it would bloom, for one night, at midnight, and all the grandchildren would stay up and watch. It was midnight, and he was in full bloom. He staggered over to me and put his arms around me and hollered in my ear: I am having such a good time and other endearments.

"You have a friend for life" I told him. I wasn't just speaking for me. Now, he can be a friend to himself as well."

And here it is:

(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=654.0;attach=14289;image)




Thank you, Tru.  :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dontwanttosayGB on August 02, 2010, 02:43:14 pm
Truman...great memories, Castro and the Rodeo in SF were just great, I have such fond memories of that trip even though I think we (you and I) only spoke for like 1 minute but there is a picture with both of us in it somewhere...LOL!

Like I said before, Rich and I were not close, but after meeting him in SF I did just sense he was a really nice sincere guy...and I can't help but think what a loss, what a really sad loss...the world needs more nice sincere people, so again, what a sad loss...

Here's a *sigh* for the collective one!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 02, 2010, 02:47:25 pm
...That's a good idea, Kelda, to send her a card too - thanks for thinking of it - I'll do the same.

Quote
Also do we have more details re the fund?

Regarding the fund, I don't know yet, but I'm sure someone will post about it as soon as they've heard.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 02, 2010, 02:52:53 pm
Truman - thank you for sharing the details of that first meeting.  There's so much genuine feeling there.  You know, like Kelda, I've been telling you should write professionally for a long time.

Clarissa - And thank you for finding those quotes.  I love reading about the good times - it helps to alleviate the badness of this, albeit briefly.

I feel sad and would like to hear how you are all doing.  Since we are separated by distance, I can't just look across the room at you and sigh together.

I am OK for now.  I am trying to focus on work so I don't have it on my mind this weekend, but the concentration isn't coming easily.  I just want to get down there so we can be together.  I'm not usually one to yearn for Fridays, but this weekend really can't come soon enough.

Thank you for asking {{{{{Elle}}}}.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 02, 2010, 03:14:09 pm
Elizabeth is on my mind and won't go away.  I don't have a lot of free funds right now (family stuff), but I hope to set up a regular deposit of a small amount weekly into that account.  We're going to see that she gets the education that her father would have wanted for her.  And I also want us to try to make her graduations - high school and college and any more schooling she decides embark upon.  I really hope it's possible to stay in touch with her, keep an eye on how she is.  People drift and I don't want to let that happen.

Tell you what. Already yesterday I started thinking that I hope her mother lets her continue to have contact with Gene and his boys, and with Rich's side of the family. I don't know anything about how her mother is now, but I remember how ... difficult ... she was about the divorce.  :-\

You have a good, caring heart, Lynne.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 02, 2010, 03:22:34 pm
First time meeting Rich.....I can remember that well.

 ;D

I drove up to the hotel in SF, and Rich was already inside.  The parking lot was below the hotel, but I couldn't figure out where it was. 

 ::) :laugh:

I had Karen with me, and she went in and found Rich.  She told him I was outside in the van.  I'm getting ready to pull out and try to find parking, and I look to my right, through the windows into the hotel lounge.  Here comes Rich, bounding out the door, hops over the wrought iron gate and comes running over to the driver side of the van.  he reaches through the open window and puts me in a bear hug.

 ;D
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SuperDistortion on August 02, 2010, 03:58:56 pm
Hello Brokie Friends...
    As some of you know I personally never had the pleasure of meeting Rich, but I want to offer my deepest condolences to those of you who know and love him and are having to find some means to cope with the tragic loss of your friend.   May he rest in peace, and may all of his friends and family keep his memory alive and find some solace.
SuperD
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 02, 2010, 04:05:37 pm
First time meeting Rich.....I can remember that well.

 ;D

I drove up to the hotel in SF, and Rich was already inside.  The parking lot was below the hotel, but I couldn't figure out where it was. 

 ::) :laugh:

I had Karen with me, and she went in and found Rich.  She told him I was outside in the van.  I'm getting ready to pull out and try to find parking, and I look to my right, through the windows into the hotel lounge.  Here comes Rich, bounding out the door, hops over the wrought iron gate and comes running over to the driver side of the van.  he reaches through the open window and puts me in a bear hug.

 ;D


That's AWEsome, Chuck.  A treasured memory.  Thank you for sharing it.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 02, 2010, 04:11:24 pm
I hope someone can share the name and address where the service will be held on Saturday afternoon?  I'm planning on driving or flying down there.  Thanks.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 02, 2010, 04:14:27 pm
I feel sad and would like to hear how you are all doing.  Since we are separated by distance, I can't just look across the room at you and sigh together.

I feel calm today.  I think Rich has his hands on my shoulders or somethin’.   :)

People cut me off on the freeway and I let it go.   I am listening more to folks and not judging them.  I am showing more mercy and forgiveness to folks.  My partner and I are moving in together and for the first time I don’t feel Ennis-like fear about it, but now I’m rather lookin’ for ward to it.  I have more patience and understanding today.  I want to try to continue to live my life this way going forward.

‘Cause in the end, life is too short!  I have learned that this weekend.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Luvlylittlewing on August 02, 2010, 04:14:47 pm
First time meeting Rich.....I can remember that well.

 ;D

I drove up to the hotel in SF, and Rich was already inside.  The parking lot was below the hotel, but I couldn't figure out where it was. 

 ::) :laugh:

I had Karen with me, and she went in and found Rich.  She told him I was outside in the van.  I'm getting ready to pull out and try to find parking, and I look to my right, through the windows into the hotel lounge.  Here comes Rich, bounding out the door, hops over the wrought iron gate and comes running over to the driver side of the van.  he reaches through the open window and puts me in a bear hug.

 ;D

Was this at the screening in 2007?  I was there but I didn't get to meet many Brokies, but now that I think back, I do remember seeing most of you guys there.   :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Luvlylittlewing on August 02, 2010, 04:17:26 pm
I feel calm today.  I think Rich has his hands on my shoulders or somethin’.   :)

People cut me off on the freeway and I let it go.   I am listening more to folks and not judging them.  I am showing more mercy and forgiveness to folks.  My partner and I are moving in together and for the first time I don’t feel Ennis-like fear about it, but now I’m rather lookin’ for ward to it.  I have more patience and understanding today.  I want to try to continue to live my life this way going forward.

‘Cause in the end, life is too short!  I have learned that this weekend.


This is great, Eric!  I'm glad you've found happiness.  Perhaps one day I can meet your partner, perhaps at the Grand Lake!  I would like that very much.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 02, 2010, 04:45:27 pm
Was this at the screening in 2007?  I was there but I didn't get to meet many Brokies, but now that I think back, I do remember seeing most of you guys there.   :)

I was thinking you were going ot try and make it but had a family event going on.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 02, 2010, 04:46:27 pm
Eric!! You're moving hot boyfriend!?

Wow, friend, that's great news! A real shot of light in this dark time!

Go Eric!

 :-* :-*

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 02, 2010, 04:47:10 pm
Tell you what. Already yesterday I started thinking that I hope her mother lets her continue to have contact with Gene and his boys, and with Rich's side of the family. I don't know anything about how her mother is now, but I remember how ... difficult ... she was about the divorce.  :-\

You have a good, caring heart, Lynne.

I think things have calmed down a lot, and it seems like she and Gene have a good relationship.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 02, 2010, 05:46:17 pm
Hello Brokie Friends...
    As some of you know I personally never had the pleasure of meeting Rich. but I want to offer my deepest condolences to those of you who know and love him and are having to find some means to cope with the tragic loss of your friend.   May he rest in peace, and may all of his friends and family keep his memory alive and find some solace.
SuperD

Thank you, Ronny.  I appreciate all you've done during this horrible time.  You're the best.   :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 02, 2010, 05:47:19 pm
I hope someone can share the name and address where the service will be held on Saturday afternoon?  I'm planning on driving or flying down there.  Thanks.

Hi Mandy,

I don't think we have those details yet, but I imagine Chuck and/or Truman will post them...I believe 3:00 is the time on Saturday, if that helps for now.

Lynne
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 02, 2010, 05:48:59 pm
Tell you what. Already yesterday I started thinking that I hope her mother lets her continue to have contact with Gene and his boys, and with Rich's side of the family. I don't know anything about how her mother is now, but I remember how ... difficult ... she was about the divorce.  :-\

You have a good, caring heart, Lynne.

Thank you, Jeff.  I imagine we can all make it work out just fine if we pull/push/whatever is required in the same direction.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 02, 2010, 05:50:19 pm
I feel calm today.  I think Rich has his hands on my shoulders or somethin’.   :)

People cut me off on the freeway and I let it go.   I am listening more to folks and not judging them.  I am showing more mercy and forgiveness to folks.  My partner and I are moving in together and for the first time I don’t feel Ennis-like fear about it, but now I’m rather lookin’ for ward to it.  I have more patience and understanding today.  I want to try to continue to live my life this way going forward.

‘Cause in the end, life is too short!  I have learned that this weekend.

{{{{Eric}}}}

That is all good news.  It's nice to see a rainbow during this tumult.  I'm very happy for you.   :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 02, 2010, 05:54:44 pm
I feel calm today.  I think Rich has his hands on my shoulders or somethin’.   :)

People cut me off on the freeway and I let it go.   I am listening more to folks and not judging them.  I am showing more mercy and forgiveness to folks.  My partner and I are moving in together and for the first time I don’t feel Ennis-like fear about it, but now I’m rather lookin’ for ward to it.  I have more patience and understanding today.  I want to try to continue to live my life this way going forward.

‘Cause in the end, life is too short!  I have learned that this weekend.


Eric, that's wonderful news in the middle of all this!

I'm so happy for you both!!  :-*

Wishing you all the best in your new life!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 02, 2010, 06:01:55 pm
First time meeting Rich.....I can remember that well.

 ;D

I drove up to the hotel in SF, and Rich was already inside.  The parking lot was below the hotel, but I couldn't figure out where it was. 

 ::) :laugh:

I had Karen with me, and she went in and found Rich.  She told him I was outside in the van.  I'm getting ready to pull out and try to find parking, and I look to my right, through the windows into the hotel lounge.  Here comes Rich, bounding out the door, hops over the wrought iron gate and comes running over to the driver side of the van.  he reaches through the open window and puts me in a bear hug.

 ;D

Love this, Chuck, and all of the other memories about Rich and Gene. Thank y'all very much.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 02, 2010, 06:03:16 pm
I feel calm today.  I think Rich has his hands on my shoulders or somethin’.   :)

People cut me off on the freeway and I let it go.   I am listening more to folks and not judging them.  I am showing more mercy and forgiveness to folks.  My partner and I are moving in together and for the first time I don’t feel Ennis-like fear about it, but now I’m rather lookin’ for ward to it.  I have more patience and understanding today.  I want to try to continue to live my life this way going forward.

‘Cause in the end, life is too short!  I have learned that this weekend.


Yay Eric!!!! Big hugs to both of you!!

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 02, 2010, 06:13:45 pm
I feel calm today.  I think Rich has his hands on my shoulders or somethin’.   :)

People cut me off on the freeway and I let it go.   I am listening more to folks and not judging them.  I am showing more mercy and forgiveness to folks.  My partner and I are moving in together and for the first time I don’t feel Ennis-like fear about it, but now I’m rather lookin’ for ward to it.  I have more patience and understanding today.  I want to try to continue to live my life this way going forward.

‘Cause in the end, life is too short!  I have learned that this weekend.

Congrats and good luck Eric!  I'm happy for you!

I wish I could talk about the same thing you do in the middle paragraph.  LOL  I guess I am in the "anger" phase.  On the way home I was at an intersection.  The light changed, but I waited to let some pedestrians cross, and someone behind me started to lay on their horn.  I flipped them the bird and shouted out such a string of obscenities that, if my mom was in the car, she would'vd done an "Aunt Pittypat" and passed out.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 02, 2010, 06:19:49 pm
I hope someone can share the name and address where the service will be held on Saturday afternoon?  I'm planning on driving or flying down there.  Thanks.

AT this point Mandy all we know for sure is 3 pm eastern on Saturday, the location I imagine will be betwixt Atlanta and Dawsonville. Stay tuned. Drive carefully.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 02, 2010, 06:20:42 pm
Have faith that the anger will pass in due time, Chuck.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 02, 2010, 06:21:25 pm
Tell you what. Already yesterday I started thinking that I hope her mother lets her continue to have contact with Gene and his boys, and with Rich's side of the family. I don't know anything about how her mother is now, but I remember how ... difficult ... she was about the divorce.  :-\

I think things have calmed down a lot, and it seems like she and Gene have a good relationship.

Thanks for passing that info on, Truman. One less thing to worry about.  :) You hear some pretty ugly stories about situations like this, so I was concerned.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 02, 2010, 06:57:45 pm
I just saw this on facebook, from Diana Ossana:

Diana Ossana: I "friended" Richard only recently, but from his posts, it was clear that he was a man with humor, sensitivity, kindness and intelligence...I send my most heartfelt sympathies to his dear friends and family.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 02, 2010, 08:01:09 pm
Diana is truly a madonna. I'm not surprised she and Rich found each other.

Speaking of Diana, the leather-bound book we all signed at so many events, including the SF rodeo, has just recently been sent to her.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 02, 2010, 08:16:34 pm
If I could allow myself to stop crying, I would then allow myself to stop being angry at God.  Right now, I just want to punch my fists into walls...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 02, 2010, 08:21:04 pm
One of Rich's early posts.

Ok, this is my first attemt at writing. I posted this on the IMDB this morning but I wanted to put it here and see if any of my bettermostian neighbors liked it.
Please be kind if you choose to opine. I never said I was a pulitzer prize winning author.
Thanks

Home

Junior walked up the steps holdiong her daddys breakfast tray. Making it up the steps seemed to get harder every year. "Guess this it what all them years of waitressin got me" she chuckled to herself. She paused at the door and steeled herself to what she was going to see. The cancer had taken a toll on her Daddy. His normally lanky frame was now a gaunt shadow of what he once was.
Ennis Delmar was no longer the strong cowboy of his youth but a very sick old man. Junior Knocked softly on the door and leaning into it while balancing the tray, opened it. As she turned the tray fell to the floor. Ennis was gasping for breath, his lips were blue and he was unconcious. Alma started screaming for someone anyone to call 911.
Part 2
At the hostpital Junior was awakend by her daddys voice. He had been in and out of conciousness the last couple of days.The doctors said it wouldn't be long now, she hoped he could hold on long enough for her Mamma to get there. She grabbed his hand and sked "what Daddy what is it"?
"Jack, Where are ya Lil Darlin, I can't see ya". Jack? Lil Darlin? Was that a horse he had in his child hood maybe a beloved ole dog? Junior didn't know but she knew she was about to lose her Daddy and she started to cry.
Kurt got to the hostpital as soon as the kids were out of school. Alma and Monroe arrived about an hour later. They took turns sitting with Junior in the room and entertaining the kids in the waiting area most of the night. In the Moning when the doctors made their rounds Ennis' doctor pulled them all together and told them he had a few more hours and that they should all say their goodbyes.
Junior ran out of the room sobbing, Alma followed. In the quiet of the room the two women held each other. Junior wept and Alma comforted. Suddenly Ennis stirred His eyes opened and a smile crossed his face. Junior had never seen her Daddy smile like that in all her 43 years. That smile could have lit up the night she later thought to herself "Jack fuckin Twist, There you are".
Alma froze. After all these years hearing that name on his lips still hurt and her face couldn't hide it. "Mamma, who is Jack Twist" Junior asked.
Alma composed herself, "He was your Daddys best friend, a fishing buddy he had known since he was a kid." Alma couldn't tell her daughter the truth, not now. Now there was enough pain to go around and she wasn't about to add to it.
Best friend? It never occured to Junior that her daddy even had any friends much less a best friend, a fishing buddy? She had known her Daddy to go fishing up at Pine Creek near Brokeback but he always went alone.
"Mamma", Junior said "He mentioned that name the other day, he said Jack where are ya lil Darlin. What do you supose he meant by that"? "I don't know baby, he's just talking out of his head" but she knew exactly what he meant.
Part3
At 5:00pm September 24th Ennis Delmar quietly passed away with his family at his side. When Junior got home she went to her Daddy's room. She knew she would have to get things tidy before Jenny and her kids got there. As she looked in the closet ahe saw somthng she hadn't seen before. In the very back were two old shirts habging on the same old wire hanger one inside the other. The shirts were tattered and stained on the cuffs with what could have been blood at one time. "What on earth" she thought "Daddy" she said outloud "who would have thought you to be a pack rat." As she laid the shrts down whe noticed an envelope sticking out of the pocket on the outer shirt an old pearl buttoned western shirt like the ones she always remembered her daddy wearin.
She opened the envelope and read Ennis' wishes for his funeral.
Part4
The service was samll and quiet just like Ennis wanted it. Junior had him cremated as per his instructions but putting him in those old tattered shirts and that postcard in the pocket was too much. Her Daddy never asked much from anybody so as much as she didn't want to she did just as he asked. After the service Junior asked if anyone wanted to go with her up on Brokeback to scatter his ashes?
Alma said that she and Monroe had to get back. Truth is, Alma couldn't stand to look at that Moutain much less set foot on it. That Moutain and that Man took her first love away from her some 40 yrs ago and the pain and anger still burned like an ember all these years later.
Jenny said she had to getthe kids back home. Junior knew better, she knew Jenny had hooked up with a new cowboy and would be droppin the kids off at her ex's so she could lay up with him. So Junior said her goodbyes to her Mamma and Monroe as well as to her sister and her kids.
After everyone had left, Kurt said he woud go but Junior smiled and said "no, I'll just do this by myself.It'll be a chance for me and daddy to spend some time together".
"It can be dangerous up their" Kurt protested. Junior just smiled as she got into the truck "Daddy won't let anything happen to me on his mountain".
With that she closed the door and pulled out of the parking lot
Part 5 Sacred Ground
Alma drove up the old logging road as far as she could. The old logging road had gotten too steep even for her four wheeled drive. Little did she know that the road she was now on was once just a trail only horses could get up and that her Daddy made the trip up and down it once a week one long ago summer. Where Junior was is way above where the old jumpin off point used to be.Heck, she was almost at what was the first campsite Ennis and Jack shared their first summer together.
"Guess I'll have to walk it from here" Junior thought to herself. Their was a slight chill in the air but the fall sun was warm and Junior was climing ever upward. She was reminded of the song she used to sing in chrch "We are Climbing to Zion" little did she know she really was climbing to sacred ground.
An hour later with the directions her daddy scrawled on the back of an envelope she found her destination.
The area was all grown up with weeds and scrub pines but you could tell it had once been a campsite. There were two rotted logs in front of a ring of stones that once held a campfire.
As junior looked around she said outloud "well Daddy, I know why you liked this place so much". It was beautiful! The stream was singing along right beside her so clear and pure that she knelt down to drink straight from it. The water was so cold and sweet and quenched her thirst fom the long hike.
The birds were singing and fluttering about excitedly. It was almost as if they were glad to see her. It was almost as if they were welcoming her.
Junior walked around the old campsite for a bit. She imagined her Daddy fishing and laying by the campfire. She gently started sobbing.
Suddenly the wind picked up. It was a soft warm breeze that seemed to envelop her in its warm embrace. The ever so faint smell of cologne, whiskey and cigarette smoke seemed to fill her nose. "Oh Daddy" she whispered.
The sun was getting low inthe sky and Junior knew she would have to hurry to make it back to the truck before the sun went behind the Moutain.
With tears in her eyes she opened the cannister and scattered her Daddys remains to the gentle breeze that had been softly blowing since she arrived.
"Goodbye Daddy" she said and turned to go. As she was leaving the wind picked up. She stopped and listened. for a brief moment she could have sworn she tho she had heard a cowboy call Yee Haw in the distance. She shook her head and began her slow sad journey down the moutain.

Part6 Together again
It was a warm September day as Ennis made his way up the trai to the campsite.
He wasn't quite sure where he was it seems as if he had been in some sort of fog a dream if you will. He remembered an old man laying in a hostpital bead with people crying. The man and the people looked familiar but he couldn't place them. Now here he is on horseback headed up the mountain. he figured he must have fallen asleep while riding. he hoped Jack would be there when he arrived. he looked so forward to seeing hin he couldn't get up the moutain fast enough. The poor horse was going as fast as he could on the terrain but Ennis' anticipation was exciting the horse and he pushed on faster.
Finaly Ennis crested the Ridge and rounded the corner. There before him sitting,waiting at the fire was his beloved Jack. Jack Looked up and his eyes grew big as saucers. He jumped up and let out a loud "YEEEE HAAAW" "Ennis fuckin Delmar, What took you so long". Ennis jumed off his horse without tying him up and ran into the waiting arms of his Jack. "I'm so sorry Lil Darlin, I made it it as soon as I could, I've missed you somtin fierce".
So there they were together again, in each other arms inthe sweet afterlife, never again to part.


Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 02, 2010, 08:33:10 pm
If I could allow myself to stop crying, I would then allow myself to stop being angry at God.  Right now, I just want to punch my fists into walls...

I hear you, Mandy.   :-\ :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 02, 2010, 08:46:14 pm
LOL  I guess I am in the "anger" phase.  On the way home I was at an intersection.  The light changed, but I waited to let some pedestrians cross, and someone behind me started to lay on their horn.  I flipped them the bird and shouted out such a string of obscenities that, if my mom was in the car, she would'vd done an "Aunt Pittypat" and passed out.

Heck, as early as Saturday night already, I was so mad I felt like I wanted to hit somebody. Why I needed to be out with my usual friends at my usual watering hole that evening--and stayed out much later than I should have, considering that I was reading in church Sunday morning. Oddly enough, I was fine Sunday morning and did my usual good job as a lector (self-consciously pats self on the back. ...).
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 02, 2010, 09:43:58 pm
That was so wonderful Fritz. Rich speaking to us from beyond the grave.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 02, 2010, 09:54:23 pm
I hope (in some very, very, very distant year) that Rich will have a similar encounter.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 02, 2010, 10:08:05 pm
I feel calm today.  I think Rich has his hands on my shoulders or somethin’.   :)

People cut me off on the freeway and I let it go.   I am listening more to folks and not judging them.  I am showing more mercy and forgiveness to folks.  My partner and I are moving in together and for the first time I don’t feel Ennis-like fear about it, but now I’m rather lookin’ for ward to it.  I have more patience and understanding today.  I want to try to continue to live my life this way going forward.

‘Cause in the end, life is too short!  I have learned that this weekend.


I too feel like I have learned a lot this weekend. Life is too short and we never know what is around the corner for us. I have become very aware of a flaw in myself that I truly need to work on. I have always known that flaw was there, but I have just let it continue to exist. That flaw is that I tend to build up walls around myself which prevent me from having very close friendships. I have always said that it was because I was a loner and people continually tell me that I am a very difficult person to get to know. The reason for that is that I do not let people in. Instead I throw up the gates which often results in me pushing people away.

Anyway enough of that, I am very happy for you Eric that you and your partner are moving in together. I'm very glad you have a partner now. You are certainly very deserving of finding that same kind of happiness that Rich found.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 02, 2010, 10:12:15 pm
I hope (in some very, very, very distant year) that Rich will have a similar encounter.



O my, Fritz. That story was so touching. Now I'm crying again. It is just so hard to believe that this tragedy happened. Bless all of you who have been in Rich's physical presence because the pain has to be multiplied manyfold. Thank you for posting that, Fritz.  :'(  :'(  :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: RouxB on August 02, 2010, 10:13:36 pm

I am just sad and "empty" right now. What these Brokie losses keep reminding me is that love and friendship do not require a daily face-to-face relationship. My heart is broken for those left behind.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 02, 2010, 10:28:08 pm
If I could allow myself to stop crying, I would then allow myself to stop being angry at God.  Right now, I just want to punch my fists into walls...

Mandy you cry all you need too, and blame whatever you need to to help you cope.

There is no answer to why. You and the rest of us just have to get thru this and in time look back at his whole life for the lessons we can learn from it. Why he had left is just unanswerable.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Katie77 on August 02, 2010, 10:31:47 pm
I feel calm today.  I think Rich has his hands on my shoulders or somethin’.   :)

People cut me off on the freeway and I let it go.   I am listening more to folks and not judging them.  I am showing more mercy and forgiveness to folks.  My partner and I are moving in together and for the first time I don’t feel Ennis-like fear about it, but now I’m rather lookin’ for ward to it.  I have more patience and understanding today.  I want to try to continue to live my life this way going forward.

‘Cause in the end, life is too short!  I have learned that this weekend.


Eric, I am so glad  you are feeling the way you are. I only posted this quote in my blog, last week, because I too, had found some peace and patience in my own life.

Dalai Lama :::When we develop patience, we find that we develop a reserve of calm and tranquility. We tend to be less antagonistic and more pleasant to associate with. This creates a positive atmosphere around us and it is easy for others to relate to us. Better grounded emotionally through patience, we become stronger mentally and spiritually, and tend to be healthier physically.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 02, 2010, 10:54:12 pm


I just saw this on facebook, from Diana Ossana:

Diana Ossana: I "friended" Richard only recently, but from his posts, it was clear that he was a man with humor, sensitivity, kindness and intelligence...I send my most heartfelt sympathies to his dear friends and family.


Wow. Just--wow.

But still:    :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 02, 2010, 11:05:53 pm
There is no answer to why. You and the rest of us just have to get thru this and in time look back at his whole life for the lessons we can learn from it. Why he had left is just unanswerable.

"If you can't fix it, you've got to stand it."  :(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 02, 2010, 11:07:21 pm
Wow. Just--wow.

My thought, exactly.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 02, 2010, 11:21:26 pm
I think one day his life and journey would make a wonderful book/movie with the right person authoring. Maybe a certain tru wordsmith we all know and love.  
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 03, 2010, 12:00:30 am
I think one day his life and journey would make a wonderful book/movie with the right person authoring. Maybe a certain tru wordsmith we all know and love.  


Wow, Shasta!  I think you can say that twice and mean it!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 03, 2010, 12:04:09 am
Fritz, that story is an excellent find.  I think it would be wonderful if one of the people closest to Gene sent it to him.  I'm going to look up the hymn.  I wonder if it would be good ar the funeral.

Paul, good find on the Diana Ossana quote.  One of us should tell her the story of Rich's last three years.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: BayCityJohn on August 03, 2010, 12:13:11 am
I sent an email to Diana this evening to thank her. I told her a little bit about Rich and how his life changed for the better because of her movie.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 03, 2010, 12:14:56 am

Wow, Shasta!  I think you can say that twice and mean it!

:)

Such a hopeful message. Yes--ended too soon. But what a lesson in living life to the fullest and having dreams come true!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: pnwDUDE on August 03, 2010, 12:23:06 am
I think one day his life and journey would make a wonderful book/movie with the right person authoring. Maybe a certain tru wordsmith we all know and love.  

Yep.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on August 03, 2010, 12:24:29 am
It's good for us to be together in the sad times too... several of us will be getting together in Atlanta or Dawsonville over the next few days. Truman, Jack, Lynne, Paul, Chuck, and Judy will be coming in on Thursday or Friday through Sunday.

You might check with the Hotel Indigo in midtown Atlanta

http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/in/1/en/hotel/atlfx?&cm_mmc=mdpr-_-googlemaps-_-in-_-atlfx&externalHotelDetailHit=true

Let us know if you can meet with us. Love to all.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bluewater on August 03, 2010, 12:26:08 am
  Am not here very often, but did want to pay my respects, after having heard of this loss on DC forum.  He must have been a very good and decent man to have caused so many to grieve his passing.  My hope is that his partner will feel some peace, knowing his own loved one was loved and appreciated so much by others. I wish the best for everyone here - Tony.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on August 03, 2010, 12:27:27 am
tru
yeah
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 03, 2010, 12:58:40 am
I feel calm today.  I think Rich has his hands on my shoulders or somethin’.   :)

People cut me off on the freeway and I let it go.   I am listening more to folks and not judging them.  I am showing more mercy and forgiveness to folks.  My partner and I are moving in together and for the first time I don’t feel Ennis-like fear about it, but now I’m rather lookin’ for ward to it.  I have more patience and understanding today.  I want to try to continue to live my life this way going forward.

‘Cause in the end, life is too short!  I have learned that this weekend.



Eric, I think it's wonderful that you and Mike are taking the plunge to move in together.  I loved spending time with you two on the train.  You too were so amiable together.  It was a pleasure to be with you.

 :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: pnwDUDE on August 03, 2010, 01:26:01 am
I feel calm today.  I think Rich has his hands on my shoulders or somethin’.   :)

People cut me off on the freeway and I let it go.   I am listening more to folks and not judging them.  I am showing more mercy and forgiveness to folks.  My partner and I are moving in together and for the first time I don’t feel Ennis-like fear about it, but now I’m rather lookin’ for ward to it.  I have more patience and understanding today.  I want to try to continue to live my life this way going forward.

‘Cause in the end, life is too short!  I have learned that this weekend.


Good words Eric. Takes somethin' like this for us to take pause. Surely did for me.

Brad
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 03, 2010, 04:05:08 am
I just saw this on facebook, from Diana Ossana:

Diana Ossana: I "friended" Richard only recently, but from his posts, it was clear that he was a man with humor, sensitivity, kindness and intelligence...I send my most heartfelt sympathies to his dear friends and family.

wow..  :-\
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 03, 2010, 08:20:01 am
I feel calm today.  I think Rich has his hands on my shoulders or somethin’.   :)

People cut me off on the freeway and I let it go.   I am listening more to folks and not judging them.  I am showing more mercy and forgiveness to folks.  My partner and I are moving in together and for the first time I don’t feel Ennis-like fear about it, but now I’m rather lookin’ for ward to it.  I have more patience and understanding today.  I want to try to continue to live my life this way going forward.

‘Cause in the end, life is too short!  I have learned that this weekend.



Eric, it is wonderful that you and Mike are moving in together. All my best to you :-*.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 03, 2010, 08:32:39 am
I hope (in some very, very, very distant year) that Rich will have a similar encounter.


Yes.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 03, 2010, 08:50:16 am
Fritz, that story is an excellent find.  I think it would be wonderful if one of the people closest to Gene sent it to him.  I'm going to look up the hymn.  I wonder if it would be good ar the funeral.

I wonder whether by "Climbing to Zion" he actually meant this:

"Marching to Zion"
Words: Isaac Watts
Music: Robert Lowery

Come, we that love the Lord,
And let our joys be known;
Join in a song with sweet accord,
Join in a song with sweet accord
And thus surround the throne,
And thus surround the throne.

Refrain

We’re marching to Zion,
Beautiful, beautiful Zion;
We’re marching upward to Zion,
The beautiful city of God.

The sorrows of the mind
Be banished from the place;
Religion never was designed
Religion never was designed,
To make our pleasures less,
To make our pleasures less.

Refrain

Let those refuse to sing,
Who never knew our God;
But favorites of the heavenly King,
But favorites of the heavenly King
May speak their joys abroad,
May speak their joys abroad.

Refrain

The God that rules on high,
And thunders when He please,
Who rides upon the stormy sky,
Who rides upon the stormy sky,
And manages the seas,
And manages the seas.

Refrain

This awful God is ours,
Our Father and our Love;
He will send down his heav’nly powers,
He will send down his heav’nly powers,
To carry us above,
To carry us above.

Refrain

There we shall see His face,
And never, never sin!
There, from the rivers of His grace,
There, from the rivers of His grace,
Drink endless pleasures in,
Drink endless pleasures in.

Refrain

Yea, and before we rise,
To that immortal state,
The thoughts of such amazing bliss,
The thoughts of such amazing bliss,
Should constant joys create,
Should constant joys create.

Refrain

The men of grace have found,
Glory begun below.
Celestial fruits on earthly ground
Celestial fruits on earthly ground
From faith and hope may grow,
From faith and hope may grow.

Refrain

The hill of Zion yields
A thousand sacred sweets
Before we reach the heav’nly fields,
Before we reach the heav’nly fields,
Or walk the golden streets,
Or walk the golden streets.

Refrain

Then let our songs abound,
And every tear be dry;
We’re marching through Immanuel’s ground,
We’re marching through Immanuel’s ground,
To fairer worlds on high,
To fairer worlds on high.

Refrain


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 

This is an old, old Evangelical favorite. The words were written by Isaac Watts in 1707 and the music by Robert Lowery in 1867. We sing it a couple times a year even in my moderately high church Episcopal parish. The Episcopal hymnal doesn't include all the stanzas. You can find the words and also listen to the music at http://www.cyberhymnal.org (http://www.cyberhymnal.org).
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: teresa on August 03, 2010, 09:58:53 am
hi everyone,
i have been on here and reading this thread for the past few days and wanting to contribute, but there really isn't much that i can add to all  the heartfelt messages everyone has already posted. they were very moving and touching.
i had met rich twice, in sf and again in nyc. i didn't know him very well but i know alot of people who really loved him so i know he was a wonderful man. he had everything going for him, a beautiful daughter that he adored, a life partner who was the love of his life  and a new business. there is just no sense to this.  so many people are going to miss him. this should not have happened. like mandi said, it just makes you want to hit a wall.
and fiona, i know we don't know each other, but what you wrote about the threads was absolutely beautiful and made me cry.
and eric, i am so happy for you and  mike, congratulations!!!! you deserve it.
and ted, enjoy your new life with jari. you deserve the best.
to everyone here , i give you my deepest sympathies and condolences. he is going to be so missed.
love,
teresa   
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 03, 2010, 10:10:33 am
(((teresa)))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: teresa on August 03, 2010, 10:27:16 am
((((kelda))))

i am really looking forward to meeting you in sept.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 03, 2010, 10:51:01 am
Hello BetterMostains.

I have the street address for where the memorial will be for Rich.

It's Saturday at 3:00 PM.  It will be held in a vacant Assisted Living Facility. 

50 Tanglewood Drive
Dawsonville, Ga.  30534.

The way it was explained to me, this is a "new" road, and is untested as to whether or not it will show up with GSP, GPS, whatever the correct initials are.

The address is found using MapQuest, so you have that alternative.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 03, 2010, 11:06:42 am
I spoke with Rich's mother, she said she hopes as many of us can come as possible, and she said for those of us attending to "put on our thinking caps" and remember the funniest story you have involving Rich, to share. It is meant to be a celebration of him and his life and not something gloomy and depressing.

If any of you who cannot attend would like for me to read something from you, I will be happy to do that, please send it to me in a pm by Saturday morning.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Fran on August 03, 2010, 11:25:04 am
I learned of Rich's passing late Saturday, the day of my father's funeral.  (My father was 91. For years now, I had been dreading "the call", and it finally came early Wednesday morning.  But even when death is expected, it is still hard.)  I wish that Rich had been able to reach age 91, too, and my heart aches for Gene and the boys, for his beloved Elizabeth, and for his many, many friends.  I like the idea of a scholarship fund for Elizabeth, and I will honor Rich's memory by contributing to that.

May Rich's memory be a blessing forever.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 03, 2010, 11:25:24 am
If any of you who cannot attend would like for me to read something from you, I will be happy to do that, please send it to me in a pm by Saturday morning.


Thank you, Tru, for this offer. It means a lot.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 03, 2010, 11:29:18 am
I learned of Rich's passing late Saturday, the day of my father's funeral.  (My father was 91. For years now, I had been dreading "the call", and it finally came early Wednesday morning.  But even when death is expected, it is still hard.)  I wish that Rich had been able to reach age 91, too, and my heart aches for Gene and the boys, for his beloved Elizabeth, and for his many, many friends.  I like the idea of a scholarship fund for Elizabeth, and I will honor Rich's memory by contributing to that.

May Rich's memory be a blessing forever.

Fran, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss.  :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dontwanttosayGB on August 03, 2010, 11:31:57 am
I am just sad and "empty" right now. What these Brokie losses keep reminding me is that love and friendship do not require a daily face-to-face relationship. My heart is broken for those left behind.


Wonderful words, RouxB, and very true...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 03, 2010, 11:32:32 am
I learned of Rich's passing late Saturday, the day of my father's funeral.  (My father was 91. For years now, I had been dreading "the call", and it finally came early Wednesday morning.  But even when death is expected, it is still hard.) 


Oh Fran, I'm so sorry for your loss.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dontwanttosayGB on August 03, 2010, 11:36:43 am
hi everyone,
i have been on here and reading this thread for the past few days and wanting to contribute, but there really isn't much that i can add to all  the heartfelt messages everyone has already posted. they were very moving and touching.
i had met rich twice, in sf and again in nyc. i didn't know him very well but i know alot of people who really loved him so i know he was a wonderful man. he had everything going for him, a beautiful daughter that he adored, a life partner who was the love of his life  and a new business. there is just no sense to this.  so many people are going to miss him. this should not have happened. like mandi said, it just makes you want to hit a wall.
and fiona, i know we don't know each other, but what you wrote about the threads was absolutely beautiful and made me cry.
and eric, i am so happy for you and  mike, congratulations!!!! you deserve it.
and ted, enjoy your new life with jari. you deserve the best.
to everyone here , i give you my deepest sympathies and condolences. he is going to be so missed.
love,
teresa   



Thanks, Teresa, hope things are looking up for you too...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: milomorris on August 03, 2010, 11:59:08 am
I learned of Rich's passing late Saturday, the day of my father's funeral.  (My father was 91. For years now, I had been dreading "the call", and it finally came early Wednesday morning.  But even when death is expected, it is still hard.)  I wish that Rich had been able to reach age 91, too, and my heart aches for Gene and the boys, for his beloved Elizabeth, and for his many, many friends.  I like the idea of a scholarship fund for Elizabeth, and I will honor Rich's memory by contributing to that.

May Rich's memory be a blessing forever.

Sorry about your dad, Fran.

I would like to find out how to contribute to the scholarship fund too. Life has been rough enough for this young lady, and I'd hate to see her miss out on an education too.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 03, 2010, 12:01:47 pm
I learned of Rich's passing late Saturday, the day of my father's funeral.  (My father was 91. For years now, I had been dreading "the call", and it finally came early Wednesday morning.  But even when death is expected, it is still hard.)  I wish that Rich had been able to reach age 91, too, and my heart aches for Gene and the boys, for his beloved Elizabeth, and for his many, many friends.  I like the idea of a scholarship fund for Elizabeth, and I will honor Rich's memory by contributing to that.

May Rich's memory be a blessing forever.



Fran I am so sorry for your loss. It is a hard thing, my own mother is 88 and in reasonably good health, but I too am dreading that call.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 03, 2010, 12:20:13 pm
hi everyone,
i have been on here and reading this thread for the past few days and wanting to contribute, but there really isn't much that i can add to all  the heartfelt messages everyone has already posted. they were very moving and touching.
i had met rich twice, in sf and again in nyc. i didn't know him very well but i know alot of people who really loved him so i know he was a wonderful man. he had everything going for him, a beautiful daughter that he adored, a life partner who was the love of his life  and a new business. there is just no sense to this.  so many people are going to miss him. this should not have happened. like mandi said, it just makes you want to hit a wall.
and fiona, i know we don't know each other, but what you wrote about the threads was absolutely beautiful and made me cry.
and eric, i am so happy for you and  mike, congratulations!!!! you deserve it.
and ted, enjoy your new life with jari. you deserve the best.
to everyone here , i give you my deepest sympathies and condolences. he is going to be so missed.
love,
teresa   


Teresa, It is so great to see you here and for you to contribute your thoughts and rememberances of Rich. I know you don't post much, but I wish you did post more. I think you always have a lot to say and add to any conversation.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 03, 2010, 12:27:30 pm
I would like to find out how to contribute to the scholarship fund too. Life has been rough enough for this young lady, and I'd hate to see her miss out on an education too.


Gene hasn't give me or Tru any details on that yet.  Once we have it, we'll post it.  Gene is aware that people want to make contributions, so once the details are ironed out, either Tru or I will post it.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: milomorris on August 03, 2010, 12:47:55 pm
Gene hasn't give me or Tru any details on that yet.  Once we have it, we'll post it.  Gene is aware that people want to make contributions, so once the details are ironed out, either Tru or I will post it.

Thanks, Chuck. You and Truman have been quite stalwart through all of this. Keeping us in touch with developments is greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 03, 2010, 12:53:44 pm
hi everyone,
i have been on here and reading this thread for the past few days and wanting to contribute, but there really isn't much that i can add to all  the heartfelt messages everyone has already posted. they were very moving and touching.
i had met rich twice, in sf and again in nyc. i didn't know him very well but i know alot of people who really loved him so i know he was a wonderful man. he had everything going for him, a beautiful daughter that he adored, a life partner who was the love of his life  and a new business. there is just no sense to this.  so many people are going to miss him. this should not have happened. like mandi said, it just makes you want to hit a wall.
and fiona, i know we don't know each other, but what you wrote about the threads was absolutely beautiful and made me cry.
and eric, i am so happy for you and  mike, congratulations!!!! you deserve it.
and ted, enjoy your new life with jari. you deserve the best.
to everyone here , i give you my deepest sympathies and condolences. he is going to be so missed.
love,
teresa   



((Teresa)) :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 03, 2010, 12:53:57 pm
It helps to keeps busy.  ;)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 03, 2010, 12:57:00 pm
Hello BetterMostains.

I have the street address for where the memorial will be for Rich.

It's Saturday at 3:00 PM.  It will be held in a vacant Assisted Living Facility. 

50 Tanglewood Drive
Dawsonville, Ga.  30534.

The way it was explained to me, this is a "new" road, and is untested as to whether or not it will show up with GSP, GPS, whatever the correct initials are.

The address is found using MapQuest, so you have that alternative.

Believe it or not I found it very quickly on my Droid. However, it is of course tied in with Google Maps so that is probably not so strange.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 03, 2010, 01:00:57 pm
I spoke with Rich's mother, she said she hopes as many of us can come as possible, and she said for those of us attending to "put on our thinking caps" and remember the funniest story you have involving Rich, to share. It is meant to be a celebration of him and his life and not something gloomy and depressing.

If any of you who cannot attend would like for me to read something from you, I will be happy to do that, please send it to me in a pm by Saturday morning.

This sounds like a really great idea. I can imagine that this is exactly the way Rich would have wanted it..........a celebration of him and his life, not something gloomy and depressing. Rich was a fun loving person and I do not think he would want an event where everyone was just sad and feeling bad.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 03, 2010, 01:03:06 pm
I learned of Rich's passing late Saturday, the day of my father's funeral.  (My father was 91. For years now, I had been dreading "the call", and it finally came early Wednesday morning.  But even when death is expected, it is still hard.)  I wish that Rich had been able to reach age 91, too, and my heart aches for Gene and the boys, for his beloved Elizabeth, and for his many, many friends.  I like the idea of a scholarship fund for Elizabeth, and I will honor Rich's memory by contributing to that.

May Rich's memory be a blessing forever.


Fran, my thoughts go out to you. (((Fran)))
I know perfectly well what you mean with dreading "the call". It was the same for me with my father, even though he was only 64.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 03, 2010, 01:07:59 pm
I learned of Rich's passing late Saturday, the day of my father's funeral.  (My father was 91. For years now, I had been dreading "the call", and it finally came early Wednesday morning.  But even when death is expected, it is still hard.)  I wish that Rich had been able to reach age 91, too, and my heart aches for Gene and the boys, for his beloved Elizabeth, and for his many, many friends.  I like the idea of a scholarship fund for Elizabeth, and I will honor Rich's memory by contributing to that.

May Rich's memory be a blessing forever.



I am very sorry to hear about the loss of your father Fran. Unfortunately, I know these things will be happening to me soon too. My mother has been going downhill fast and my father is getting way up there in years too. She is 82 and he is 85 (soon to be 86). I was feeling really bad about my mother on Saturday. I guess you could say I was feeling sorry for myself. Then I got on Facebook and found out about Rich who I had just communicated with on Friday. He and Gene were all set for a big and fun weekend. It never entered my mind that something like this would happen. I still don't really believe it.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 03, 2010, 01:10:13 pm
Hello BetterMostains.

I have the street address for where the memorial will be for Rich.

It's Saturday at 3:00 PM.  It will be held in a vacant Assisted Living Facility.  

50 Tanglewood Drive
Dawsonville, Ga.  30534.

The way it was explained to me, this is a "new" road, and is untested as to whether or not it will show up with GSP, GPS, whatever the correct initials are.

The address is found using MapQuest, so you have that alternative.


Thank you very much, Chuck.  It looks like a new building that MapQuest shows, and GoogleMaps does not.  On GoogleMaps, you can see the cleared spot for it, but the building's not there yet.



Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 03, 2010, 01:11:28 pm
Fran, my condolences.  I bet your father was a smart guy.

Teresa, I'm glad you're here.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 03, 2010, 01:12:06 pm
He and Gene were all set for a big and fun weekend. It never entered my mind that something like this would happen. I still don't really believe it.

I know the feeling.
Every time I see our banner it hits me again. I don't want it to be true.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 03, 2010, 02:25:24 pm
I've mostly been feeling very subdued since hearing the news.  I just want the world to let me rest and reflect.  I can't imagine how hard it's being for those of you very close to Rich.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 03, 2010, 02:45:02 pm
I just saw this on facebook, from Diana Ossana:

Diana Ossana: I "friended" Richard only recently, but from his posts, it was clear that he was a man with humor, sensitivity, kindness and intelligence...I send my most heartfelt sympathies to his dear friends and family.

This is so lovely and kind. Thanks for telling us, Paul.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 03, 2010, 02:47:28 pm
One of Rich's early posts.



Very moving indeed.

Thanks Fritz for finding it.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 03, 2010, 03:03:53 pm

Thank you, Tru, for this offer. It means a lot.

Yes, thankyou.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 03, 2010, 03:14:02 pm


Very moving indeed.

Thanks Fritz for finding it.



http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,46125.msg581824.html#msg581824



 :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 03, 2010, 03:20:51 pm
I learned of Rich's passing late Saturday, the day of my father's funeral.  (My father was 91. For years now, I had been dreading "the call", and it finally came early Wednesday morning.  But even when death is expected, it is still hard.)

Sorry to hear this Fran ((fran))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 03, 2010, 03:22:32 pm
I learned of Rich's passing late Saturday, the day of my father's funeral. 

I'm sorry for your loss, Fran.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Monika on August 03, 2010, 03:29:56 pm
One of Rich's early posts.



wow. I remember reading the story and bawling my eyes out. I had completely forgotten who wrote it though.
I don´t think I can read it again, but thanks for finding it and bringing it back to our attention. I think letting Rich´s family know of it, like someone suggested, would be very nice.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: LauraGigs on August 03, 2010, 04:04:58 pm
Hi everybody.

Thank you Clarissa for texting me and letting me know last night as I came into Colorado (and finally had cell reception).  I'd been out of town and offline since last Wednesday.  A music-related trip through Montana... and Wyoming (sigh).  It kills me that the only way Rich will physically encounter the place now is as ashes.  The tears aren't stopping.  

Rich was truly a BetterMost success story. The "journey Rich made out of confusion and frustration into clarity and contentment" (as you aptly put it, Brokeplex) has been so gratifying to watch and share in. I'm so happy Rich did get the Sweet Life and obviously reveled in it, enjoying and cherishing every day. He was truly blessed and appreciated his blessings consciously and completely.

A fair number of confused people have passed through Bettermost and other forums and picked up on the counseling & wisdom people here have to share... and gone their way (which is okay, life happens).  But all the wisdom, humor and compassion Rich picked up from the community — he turned around and gave back a hundredfold.  And on the rare occasions he expressed disagreement with someone (over the film, current events, or whatever) he did so with such good humor that it was still a total pleasure to engage in or read those dialogs.  I just love him for that.

I think the college fund for Biz is a perfect idea. As much as we may worry for her, I know in my heart that between Gene and his sons, she has gained four men in her life who will love and protect her with all the ferocity Rich would.

On a lighter note, the only worry I have with a "Rich book" is that it's almost too perfect.  His story embodies all the morals a lot of art forms try to teach: that truth is paramount, risks can be worthwhile and dreams can come true.

I felt ~fairly~ close to Rich, but at the same time so appreciate all of you who are closer and are doing all you can to help, facilitate, and share.  

In Rich's very words: Have I told [all of] you lately that I love you and how glad I am to know you?
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 03, 2010, 04:14:38 pm
Laura - you just made me cry!  :)

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Meryl on August 03, 2010, 04:30:32 pm
((((Laura))))

Quote
A fair number of confused people have passed through Bettermost and other forums and picked up on the counseling & wisdom people here have to share... and gone their way (which is okay, life happens).  But all the wisdom, humor and compassion Rich picked up from the community — he turned around and gave back a hundredfold.  And on the rare occasions he expressed disagreement with someone (over the film, current events, or whatever) he did so with such good humor that it was still a total pleasure to engage in or read those dialogs.  I just love him for that.

So beautifully said.  Thank you.  :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 03, 2010, 05:07:53 pm
 His story embodies all the morals a lot of art forms try to teach: that truth is paramount, risks can be worthwhile and dreams can come true.



That summs it up so well and so completely Laura, that was Rich.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 03, 2010, 06:11:34 pm
This was posted on DCF by Fritz. I thought it belonged in this thread, and Fritz gave me permission to repost it here.

____________________________________________________________________________________________


He is Gone

You can shed tears that he is gone
Or you can smile because he has lived

You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back
Or you can open your eyes and see all that he has left

Your heart can be empty because you can't see him
Or you can be full of the love that you shared

You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday

You can remember him and only that he is gone
Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on

You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back
Or you can do what he would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on

 .... written 1981
David Harkins 1959 -
Silloth, Cumbria, UK

(http://www.betterphoto.com/uploads/processed/0811/0803122231171_horses_on_sunset_ridge_small.jpg)

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bailey1205 on August 03, 2010, 06:28:18 pm
Great poem, and words to live by.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 03, 2010, 06:58:33 pm
Laura, thanks so much for that post!


Ingmar (Ingy had met Rich at the San Fran rodeo event) & Fritz were wondering on DCF when Rich & Gene met, and I was able to get a very close estimate through my blog.  I went to visit Rich in April of '08 and he was getting phonecalls from Gene then.  They had just started to go out at that point.

It also made me go through my blog and see pics of Rich that I hadn't seen in a while, and it made me smile.



(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Georgia%20Trip/Georgiatrip001.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 03, 2010, 07:54:06 pm
I'm glad they had the time they did to share, but it was just too damn short for two beautiful men.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 03, 2010, 08:35:36 pm
Fritz, thank you for finding that.  I had never seen Rich's story.  The Sweet Afterlife--gives me chills.

Laura, I've always loved you, but somehow I love you even more now.  You nailed it. 
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Seaweed727 on August 03, 2010, 08:42:32 pm
It's been such a long time since I dropped by to say hello or see what was going on at Bettermost.  And now, after reading this thread for the past hour or more and trying to come to grips with the outpouring of love for a lost friend, I'm brought to tears not only for your loss but for having missed the opportunity to know Rich in my own way.

My love and sympathy are all I can offer at this point.  May God bless you all and may you be comforted for having shared your lives and stories with Rich throughout your years with him here and in person.

Billy Seaweed
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 03, 2010, 10:09:38 pm

Rich was truly a BetterMost success story. The "journey Rich made out of confusion and frustration into clarity and contentment" (as you aptly put it, Brokeplex) has been so gratifying to watch and share in. I'm so happy Rich did get the Sweet Life and obviously reveled in it, enjoying and cherishing every day. He was truly blessed and appreciated his blessings consciously and completely.

In Rich's very words: Have I told [all of] you lately that I love you and how glad I am to know you?


Laura, everything you say is absolutely beautiful and so very true. The lines I have included here are the ones that truly make me think of Rich. You are so correct in that Rich was a BetterMost success story. He did find the Sweet Life and he always showed his complete appreciation for that as well as his appreciation for all of us who had been on his journey with him. It always seemed for some reason that at times I was feeling really down and out I would open my email and find something from Rich asking how I was or what I had been up to or something like that. It seemed he never forgot any of us. It always seemed he knew exactly the right times to let people know that.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 04, 2010, 01:16:31 am
Hi everybody.

Thank you Clarissa for texting me and letting me know last night as I came into Colorado (and finally had cell reception).  I'd been out of town and offline since last Wednesday.  A music-related trip through Montana... and Wyoming (sigh).  It kills me that the only way Rich will physically encounter the place now is as ashes.  The tears aren't stopping. 

Rich was truly a BetterMost success story. The "journey Rich made out of confusion and frustration into clarity and contentment" (as you aptly put it, Brokeplex) has been so gratifying to watch and share in. I'm so happy Rich did get the Sweet Life and obviously reveled in it, enjoying and cherishing every day. He was truly blessed and appreciated his blessings consciously and completely.

A fair number of confused people have passed through Bettermost and other forums and picked up on the counseling & wisdom people here have to share... and gone their way (which is okay, life happens).  But all the wisdom, humor and compassion Rich picked up from the community — he turned around and gave back a hundredfold.  And on the rare occasions he expressed disagreement with someone (over the film, current events, or whatever) he did so with such good humor that it was still a total pleasure to engage in or read those dialogs.  I just love him for that.

I think the college fund for Biz is a perfect idea. As much as we may worry for her, I know in my heart that between Gene and his sons, she has gained four men in her life who will love and protect her with all the ferocity Rich would.

On a lighter note, the only worry I have with a "Rich book" is that it's almost too perfect.  His story embodies all the morals a lot of art forms try to teach: that truth is paramount, risks can be worthwhile and dreams can come true.

I felt ~fairly~ close to Rich, but at the same time so appreciate all of you who are closer and are doing all you can to help, facilitate, and share. 

In Rich's very words: Have I told [all of] you lately that I love you and how glad I am to know you?


Laura, I've been remembering how much you supported Rich when he first got here.  Thank you for what you wrote.  Love, Clarissa

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lumière on August 04, 2010, 03:03:45 am

I don't check into Bettermost everyday and only just got the news.

My heart is heavy, and I wish he were still with us.
Rich was always jovial and caring and thoughtful in every single exchange I shared with him.
He will be dearly missed.

I am thinking of his family, his close friends... and my heart breaks even more.

You are dearly missed, Rich.  And dearly loved.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 04, 2010, 04:11:45 am
It's been such a long time since I dropped by to say hello or see what was going on at Bettermost.  And now, after reading this thread for the past hour or more and trying to come to grips with the outpouring of love for a lost friend, I'm brought to tears not only for your loss but for having missed the opportunity to know Rich in my own way.

My love and sympathy are all I can offer at this point.  May God bless you all and may you be comforted for having shared your lives and stories with Rich throughout your years with him here and in person.

Billy Seaweed

Thankyou for writing that Seaweed.  :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 04, 2010, 04:35:14 am
Hi everybody.

Thank you Clarissa for texting me and letting me know last night as I came into Colorado (and finally had cell reception).  I'd been out of town and offline since last Wednesday.  A music-related trip through Montana... and Wyoming (sigh).  It kills me that the only way Rich will physically encounter the place now is as ashes.  The tears aren't stopping.  

Rich was truly a BetterMost success story. The "journey Rich made out of confusion and frustration into clarity and contentment" (as you aptly put it, Brokeplex) has been so gratifying to watch and share in. I'm so happy Rich did get the Sweet Life and obviously reveled in it, enjoying and cherishing every day. He was truly blessed and appreciated his blessings consciously and completely.

A fair number of confused people have passed through Bettermost and other forums and picked up on the counseling & wisdom people here have to share... and gone their way (which is okay, life happens).  But all the wisdom, humor and compassion Rich picked up from the community — he turned around and gave back a hundredfold.  And on the rare occasions he expressed disagreement with someone (over the film, current events, or whatever) he did so with such good humor that it was still a total pleasure to engage in or read those dialogs.  I just love him for that.

I think the college fund for Biz is a perfect idea. As much as we may worry for her, I know in my heart that between Gene and his sons, she has gained four men in her life who will love and protect her with all the ferocity Rich would.

On a lighter note, the only worry I have with a "Rich book" is that it's almost too perfect.  His story embodies all the morals a lot of art forms try to teach: that truth is paramount, risks can be worthwhile and dreams can come true.

I felt ~fairly~ close to Rich, but at the same time so appreciate all of you who are closer and are doing all you can to help, facilitate, and share.  

In Rich's very words: Have I told [all of] you lately that I love you and how glad I am to know you?


Oh Laura.  (Laura)
Like someone else already said: you nailed it.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 04, 2010, 04:37:38 am
I just read through some old PMs by Rich.
He always expressed his love, friendship and appreciation for us so freely, be it on the board or in PMs.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kerry on August 04, 2010, 06:14:14 am
(http://a.imageshack.us/img204/9558/sympathy.jpg) (http://img204.imageshack.us/i/sympathy.jpg/)
Rest in Peace
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 04, 2010, 07:37:02 am
Friends - I received this message from retropian (Ian), and he asked me to post it here on his behalf:

Hi All

I recently learned of the sad loss of Rich. What a horrible and senseless thing to happen. I'd just like to say how much I admired him. I remember when Rich first posted on IMDB. I was moved my his reaction to BBM and his self realizations. I was delighted to discover he had made his way to Bettermost and started a blog keeping everyone who cared informed of the monumental changes he was making in his life.

I did PM him a couple of times to tell him how great it was to see him take such courageous actions and to make the effort to live an authentic life, a sweet life, and how I admired him for it. That he found love with Gene and that his life had been utterly transformed all because our favorite movie was amazing and heartwarming.

Although I never had much contact with Rich I always felt happy knowing he was there; someone who made the effort to be true to himself and his loved ones and found love and happiness. I am so very sad right now, but that can't compare to what his family and friends must be feeling. My heart goes out to them all. The only consolation I can think of is that he did find his authentic self and Gene on this trans-formative journey and that he was much loved and loved much in return. How much sadder it would be if none of that had happened; if he had stayed stuck in the same place he was prior to viewing BBM.

Rich you will be missed, and I will never forget your story and the spirit with which you lived it.

Take care all.

Ian
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Marge_Innavera on August 04, 2010, 10:08:32 am
On a lighter note, the only worry I have with a "Rich book" is that it's almost too perfect.  His story embodies all the morals a lot of art forms try to teach: that truth is paramount, risks can be worthwhile and dreams can come true.

There's always a tendency to idealize; but it's so encouraging that someone could change their life so much for the better.

On the "scene selection" part of the Brokeback DVD, the last scene is titled "The Power of Love."  When you add the courage to take those first few scary steps to that power, there's no telling what it can accomplish.

Quote
In Rich's very words: Have I told [all of] you lately that I love you and how glad I am to know you?

That's a lesson we all seem to have to learn over and over -- say it while you can.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Marge_Innavera on August 04, 2010, 12:06:21 pm
I sent a card to Gene, and found one with a painting on the cover that was just what I was looking for, especially with the crossing-over-water image. Other than the moustache, it made me think of Ennis:

(http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/talkstocoyotes/th_Not_bad_for_Wet.jpg?t=1280937575)

This is by Charles Pabst. A gallery of his Western and landscape paintings is at www.marcusashley.com/artist.php?aID=69
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: optom3 on August 04, 2010, 12:17:22 pm
I still have to force myself to come on here, even the banner makes me cry. What I do love is reading all the wonderful things that have been written about Rich. I also appreciate all the hard work that people are puuting into keeping us all informed of the latest, in spite of having to cope with horrendous grief.

What  I can say is that I know very few people whose passing, would launch such an avalanche of genuine grief. It is truly the mark of the man he was. Bloody hell I hate using the past tense.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 04, 2010, 12:19:16 pm
I still have to force myself to come on here, even the banner makes me cry. What I do love is reading all the wonderful things that have been written about Rich. I also appreciate all the hard work that people are puuting into keeping us all informed of the latest, in spite of having to cope with horrendous grief.

What  I can say is that I know very few people whose passing, would launch such an avalanche of genuine grief. It is truly the mark of the man he was. Bloody hell I hate using the past tense.

{{{{{Fiona}}}}}

Yep, that is hard getting used to... :-\
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 04, 2010, 12:20:07 pm
I sent a card to Gene, and found one with a painting on the cover that was just what I was looking for, especially with the crossing-over-water image. Other than the moustache, it made me think of Ennis:

(http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/talkstocoyotes/th_Not_bad_for_Wet.jpg?t=1280937575)

This is by a Charles Pabst. A gallery of his Western and landscape paintings is at www.marcusashley.com/artist.php?aID=69

That's really a terrific card, Marcia - good on you for finding it...much better than the ordinary (but OK, I suppose) ones I found...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 04, 2010, 12:22:06 pm
I sent a card to Gene, and found one with a painting on the cover that was just what I was looking for, especially with the crossing-over-water image. Other than the moustache, it made me think of Ennis:

(http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q135/talkstocoyotes/th_Not_bad_for_Wet.jpg?t=1280937575)

This is by a Charles Pabst. A gallery of his Western and landscape paintings is at www.marcusashley.com/artist.php?aID=69

That's a lovely image, Marcia.  :)

Speaking of crossing over water images, since Lynne reminded me that Rich was a Believer, I've had running through my mind a line from a hymn that I intend to have sung at my own funeral:

When I tread the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside;
death of death, and hell's destruction, land me safe on Canaan's side.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 04, 2010, 12:32:12 pm
...
When I tread the verge of Jordan, bid my anxious fears subside;
death of death, and hell's destruction, land me safe on Canaan's side.

What hymn is that from, Jeff?

I/We've spent a lot of time listening to Abide With Me and Hymn for Those Left Behind this past week.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: milomorris on August 04, 2010, 12:53:00 pm
Speaking of crossing over water images, since Lynne reminded me that Rich was a Believer, I've had running through my mind a line from a hymn that I intend to have sung at my own funeral:

Yeah...David and I are going to be having that conversation (again) this weekend.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 04, 2010, 01:26:01 pm
Truman mentioned this before - either here or elsewhere - but I want to make sure that everyone knows.

If you have a story or memory about Rich (funny, poignant, memories of a meet, etc...) do please write them up and PM them to Truman before Saturday morning so that they can be read at the Memorial Service Saturday afternoon.

Thank you very much!


Added by Chrissi/Penthesilea:

The memorial service will be held on Saturday, 08/07/10 at 3 PM EST.
I repeat the exact time and date here, so if you are inclined and have the possibility, set aside the time and retreat from your daily life for a while, to be with Rich, his family and Brokie friends in spirit.



Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 04, 2010, 01:29:36 pm
I meant to post this a couple of days ago.  Shasta and Jeff agree that this is probably the hymn Rich was referring to in his short story about Ennis.  I didn't know the hymn til I looked it up on YouTube.  I've listened to it enough now that it's been running through my head.  It really is a good song for putting one foot in front of the other, which I've been needing help with.

[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3IqR154JA2s[/youtube]


Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 04, 2010, 01:31:17 pm
What hymn is that from, Jeff?

It's from the third and final stanza of Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah, as it appears in the current Episcopal hymnal.

It was originally written in Welsh, in the 18th century. Katharine Hepburn sings it in an early scene of The African Queen.  ;D
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 04, 2010, 01:33:01 pm
It's from the third and final stanza of Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah, as it appears in the current Episcopal hymnal.

It was originally written in Welsh, in the 18th century. Katharine Hepburn sings it in an early scene of The African Queen.  ;D

Thank you, Jeff.  I will have to look it up; it's not one with which I am familiar, growing up Methodist and all.   ;)

I got my hymns this week from Latter Days.   :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 04, 2010, 01:38:42 pm
Thank you, Jeff.  I will have to look it up; it's not one with which I am familiar, growing up Methodist and all.   ;)

I got my hymns this week from Latter Days.   :)

I will be very surprised if it wasn't, or isn't, in the Methodist hymnal. Methodism grew very strong in Wales. I knew the hymn growing up Lutheran. Then in the 1970s the Lutherans decided they needed to modernize the language of their hymns. No more thees and thous. Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah ended up as Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer.  :-\

And Hepburn plays a Methodist missionary in The African Queen.  ;D
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: milomorris on August 04, 2010, 01:48:24 pm
I will be very surprised if it wasn't, or isn't, in the Methodist hymnal. Methodism grew very strong in Wales. I knew the hymn growing up Lutheran. Then in the 1970s the Lutherans decided they needed to modernize the language of their hymns. No more thees and thous. Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah ended up as Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer.  :-\

And Hepburn plays a Methodist missionary in The African Queen.  ;D

I haven't played/sung in a Methodist church in a while, but it was in their hymnal last time I did...with the "thees & thous" intact.

Here in America at least, there is a great deal of cross-over hymnody among the protestant sects. Many of the "mainstream" denominations even include some of the more evangelical hymns. And of course everybody includes some negro spirituals and gospel tunes nowadays.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 04, 2010, 02:07:57 pm
I wonder whether Rich knew this one? This is another old Evangelical tune, with a "crossing water" image in its final stanza.

"He Leadeth Me, O Blessed Thought!"
Words: Joseph H. Gilmore
Music: William B. Bradbury

He leadeth me, O blessèd thought!
O words with heav’nly comfort fraught!
Whate’er I do, where’er I be
Still ’tis God’s hand that leadeth me.

Refrain

He leadeth me, He leadeth me,
By His own hand He leadeth me;
His faithful follower I would be,
For by His hand He leadeth me.


Sometimes mid scenes of deepest gloom,
Sometimes where Eden’s bowers bloom,
By waters still, over troubled sea,
Still ’tis His hand that leadeth me.

Refrain

Lord, I would place my hand in Thine,
Nor ever murmur nor repine;
Content, whatever lot I see,
Since ’tis my God that leadeth me.

Refrain

And when my task on earth is done,
When by Thy grace the vict’ry’s won,
E’en death’s cold wave I will not flee,
Since God through Jordan leadeth me.

Refrain
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 04, 2010, 02:15:43 pm
I haven't played/sung in a Methodist church in a while, but it was in their hymnal last time I did...with the "thees & thous" intact.

Here in America at least, there is a great deal of cross-over hymnody among the protestant sects. Many of the "mainstream" denominations even include some of the more evangelical hymns. And of course everybody includes some negro spirituals and gospel tunes nowadays.

The hymnal the Quaker Meeting I've been attending also includes some peace and love songs from the 60's and 70's such as John Lennon's Imagine.  And yes, there are plenty of Negro spirituals and gospel hymns there too, although many have been rewritten slightly to be less paternalistic.

Another example is that they've re-written the words to The Battle Hymn of the Republic to celebrate a famous Quaker, Lucretia Mott.

Here's a link if anyone is interested; I can't post from youtube at work, so I'll fix it later tonight.

http://www.google.com/search?q=lucretia+mott+song&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a

or here are the lyrics:


On the island of Nantucket she was born beside the sea
All her long life she fought bravely to make slaves and women free
And she told us that where God dwells there must be true liberty
And her light still shines for me

Chorus:
Thank thee kindly, Friend Lucretia (3x)
For thy light still shines for me

In the town of Philadelphia she hid the fleeing slaves
For the freedom of her sisters she dared cross the ocean waves
And she asked Ulysses Grant to grant a pardon for the braves...

"Let's bring an end to poverty" the gentle Quaker pled
"Let's give the workers all a chance to earn their daily bread
Let the nations live in peace again just as our Lord has said"...

Throughout the busy cities and across the countryside
She preached one simple message, "Oh, let Truth be e'er thy guide
Mind the light within thee and let love with thee abide"...

One thing I've noticed is that Ronny and I don't know many of the same hymns; he grew up Roman Catholic.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 04, 2010, 03:22:01 pm
Since I'm six or more hours ahead from most of you, this day is slowly coming to an end for me, and I want to add something for those who take this difficult journey tomorrow. I've already said it in some of your blogs, but not everyone has a blog here, so bear with me when it's a repeat for you.

I wish all of you strength. I hope you will be able to bring a small amount of comfort to Rich's loved ones. I hope you will be able to support one another and draw comfort from one another.
Thank you for going.

(((all Brokies)))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: LauraGigs on August 04, 2010, 04:06:14 pm

Time to get goin, cowboy.

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/richhorse.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Monika on August 04, 2010, 04:13:51 pm
Since I'm six or more hours ahead from most of you, this day is slowly coming to an end for me, and I want to add something for those who take this difficult journey tomorrow. I've already said it in some of your blogs, but not everyone has a blog here, so bear with me when it's a repeat for you.

I wish all of you strength. I hope you will be able to bring a small amount of comfort to Rich's loved ones. I hope you will be able to support one another and draw comfort from one another.
Thank you for going.

(((all Brokies)))

Well said, Chrissie.

And to all of you that are taking the journey tomorrow, remember that the rest of us will all be thinking on you during the days to come.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 04, 2010, 04:19:20 pm
What Chrissi and Monika said.

I'm glad you'll be going there together. You will need each other, and help each other.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sophia on August 04, 2010, 04:29:53 pm
a big hug to you all

((((Brokies))))

Thank you for what you doing.

Have a safe trip!

 :-* :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 04, 2010, 04:31:08 pm
Added by Chrissi/Penthesilea:

The memorial service will be held on Saturday, 08/07/10 at 3 PM EST.
I repeat the exact time and date here, so if you are inclined and have the possibility, set aside the time and retreat from your daily life for a while, to be with Rich, his family and Brokie friends in spirit.



Yes.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on August 04, 2010, 04:52:16 pm
   To the Brokies and friends of Rich:

         If you can't fix it,  ya gotta stand it
                                                            " Ennis Del Mar"

            God Bless you all
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 04, 2010, 05:21:16 pm
I have prearranged plans this weekend, a celebration of the start of my friend's new life as a married woman. In the US, its a bachelorette party, here its called a hen party.

It'll be 8pm my time when the memorial starts - I think I'll find a quiet spot for 5 minutes in the middle of the celebrations to think of Rich and his family and our family here at Bettermost.

In some ways I think its quite apt.

I'm celebrating a new start a new life - and we should celebrate what Rich was able to do - and I'm going to be in the middle of the countryside in the mountains, staying in a wig wam... (tent don't look right).

I think I may have a whisky to toast him.

(http://www.divshare.com/img/12081742-1af.jpg)
(http://www.wigwamholidays.com/galleries/photo/5691792.jpg)
(http://www.wigwamholidays.com/galleries/photo/32331514.jpg)



Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on August 05, 2010, 02:19:33 am
                         Rich   :-*   :-*

              [youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVe_Wa-aV-M[/youtube]



                           
                           We will all meet someday over that Rainbow too
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ZK on August 05, 2010, 05:57:26 am

Little did I know back in April 2007 that a simple trip to the video store to hire a DVD would change every aspect of my life. Watching "our film" began a time of questioning who I was or more accurately who I wasn't and although being married and with a daughter it was a time I felt utterly alone.

In my search of answers I came to bettermost and after reading a post from Richard I started a blog 10 days later entitled "Me too"


> Bless your heart ZK.
> Boy, are we two peas in a pod or what?
> I really do wish we were closer. Our situation is pretty darn identical.
> I sure wish you the best and I'm here if you need to talk.
> There are great people here that want to and will help you.
> I'm a mess right now but sometimes it helps to help others.
> Let me know if I can do anything.


This reply came from Richard and was the begining of a friendship that would cross the oceans and time zones.  We quickly became close friends, later he began to call me his twin. In time our daughters became penpals

In February 2009 I crossed the Pacific with my first stop being with Richard and Gene in Georgia. They took me into their home and I have treasured memories of the time spent with them and the boys. 

Being across the other side of the world, where time and distance can put restraints on things, we still kept the bonds of friendship strong through emails back and forth

My life will continue to change, and as those changes occur I will keep in mind the man who played such a pivotal role in my life, who helped me find myself and encouraged me to get where I am today, and  gives me the courage to continue to move forward

Thank you for everything you have done, and your memory will continue to do.

Love you mate

Your twin

Matthew
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 05, 2010, 08:30:08 am
Thanks for sharing that, Matthew--great tribute to Rich.

{{{{{{{{{{MATTHEW}}}}}}}}}}
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 05, 2010, 08:54:33 am
I echo Shasta. Thank you so much for sharing with us your introduction to Rich.

(((((Matthew)))))

I know you loved Rich very much. I am so sorry for the loss of your good Friend. Please also tell your daughter how sorry we are all. I would guess her pen pal will want to (and need to) maintain that connection very much.

I am just arriving at Paul's.

It has been hot and muggy here since yesterday. (Sweat is dripping down my face, literally). I feel like the Universe wants to prepare us for Georgia.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: optom3 on August 05, 2010, 10:58:47 am
What Chrissi and Monika said.

I'm glad you'll be going there together. You will need each other, and help each other.

All I can say has already been said. My heart will be with all of you, in the days ahead.
 I will have my own silent time at 3.00pm. I will have a drink and read some of Richards kind and wise words to me.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 05, 2010, 11:39:34 am
That sounds like a good plan, Fi, for those of us who won't be able to make it down there / up there in person.  I think I'll do the same.  Wish I knew what his favorite drink was?
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 05, 2010, 01:44:48 pm
Little did I know back in April 2007 that a simple trip to the video store to hire a DVD would change every aspect of my life. Watching "our film" began a time of questioning who I was or more accurately who I wasn't and although being married and with a daughter it was a time I felt utterly alone.

In my search of answers I came to bettermost and after reading a post from Richard I started a blog 10 days later entitled "Me too"


> Bless your heart ZK.
> Boy, are we two peas in a pod or what?
> I really do wish we were closer. Our situation is pretty darn identical.
> I sure wish you the best and I'm here if you need to talk.
> There are great people here that want to and will help you.
> I'm a mess right now but sometimes it helps to help others.
> Let me know if I can do anything.


This reply came from Richard and was the begining of a friendship that would cross the oceans and time zones.  We quickly became close friends, later he began to call me his twin. In time our daughters became penpals

In February 2009 I crossed the Pacific with my first stop being with Richard and Gene in Georgia. They took me into their home and I have treasured memories of the time spent with them and the boys. 

Being across the other side of the world, where time and distance can put restraints on things, we still kept the bonds of friendship strong through emails back and forth

My life will continue to change, and as those changes occur I will keep in mind the man who played such a pivotal role in my life, who helped me find myself and encouraged me to get where I am today, and  gives me the courage to continue to move forward

Thank you for everything you have done, and your memory will continue to do.

Love you mate

Your twin

Matthew


Oh Matt, what a poignant tribute. :'(

(((Matt)))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: milomorris on August 05, 2010, 02:04:32 pm
This reply came from Richard and was the begining of a friendship that would cross the oceans and time zones.  We quickly became close friends, later he began to call me his twin. In time our daughters became penpals

This is wonderful, Matt. The fact that you found a "twin" here must have been a great support for both of you. And the icing on the cake is that your daughters became friends too. Family shake-ups are hard on kids, and I'm sure they were able to help each other deal with things.

Thanks for sharing this.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 05, 2010, 02:28:03 pm
Mandy,

According to his FB page, Rich's favorite drink was Ketel One martinis.

I am sorry you are not going to make it. Stay in touch.

Paul and I are at ATL waiting for Chuck, whose plane has landed.

Truman and Jack are likely at Gene's by now. They were 10 miles away when we spoke last.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 05, 2010, 03:24:19 pm
Another update - Chuck, Paul, and I are all in Atlanta with Wayne.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 05, 2010, 03:28:10 pm

Another update - Chuck, Paul, and I are all in Atlanta with Wayne.


((((( hugs ))))) to you all!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Monika on August 05, 2010, 03:33:13 pm
Another update - Chuck, Paul, and I are all in Atlanta with Wayne.

thinking on you!!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 05, 2010, 04:06:00 pm
((((Matt))))

I remember that post...  :-\

Quote
My life will continue to change, and as those changes occur I will keep in mind the man who played such a pivotal role in my life, who helped me find myself and encouraged me to get where I am today, and  gives me the courage to continue to move forward

I think that great Matt.. we should all do that.. take a piece of Rich's mantra, of his hope, of his bravery and take it with us as we move on in life.
 
For some reason I hadn't realised that when you were over in the US you went to Georgia and saw Rich in his home environment. I'm  glad you got to see his sweet life and I hope you can take hope and joy from it.

I think its lovely that Maya and Bizzy are penpals.. Bizzy will need Maya now I'm sure.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 05, 2010, 04:06:41 pm
Another update - Chuck, Paul, and I are all in Atlanta with Wayne.

A big group hug to you all.

xx
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: brokeplex on August 05, 2010, 04:28:49 pm
Thank you, Bill.  I'm glad you are back and sorry that your trip had to end with this sad news awaiting you.  Thank you for your good wishes. You did have quite a bit in common and I know that you will miss him greatly.

{{{{Bill}}}}
thanks for your thoughts, when I first read them I was puzzled, as I never really got to know Rich, we were on the same forums for years, but were like ships that passed in the dark. but since his death, I have read some of his posts from IMBD and his early Bettermost posts, and you are entirely correct Lynne. We had a great deal in common, and I am not talking about politics or anything superficial, I am talking about emotional basics and choices early in life. I regret that I never really got to know him, and that I missed that opportunity.  
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Meryl on August 05, 2010, 04:56:01 pm
Little did I know back in April 2007 that a simple trip to the video store to hire a DVD would change every aspect of my life. Watching "our film" began a time of questioning who I was or more accurately who I wasn't and although being married and with a daughter it was a time I felt utterly alone.

In my search of answers I came to bettermost and after reading a post from Richard I started a blog 10 days later entitled "Me too"


> Bless your heart ZK.
> Boy, are we two peas in a pod or what?
> I really do wish we were closer. Our situation is pretty darn identical.
> I sure wish you the best and I'm here if you need to talk.
> There are great people here that want to and will help you.
> I'm a mess right now but sometimes it helps to help others.
> Let me know if I can do anything.


This reply came from Richard and was the begining of a friendship that would cross the oceans and time zones.  We quickly became close friends, later he began to call me his twin. In time our daughters became penpals

In February 2009 I crossed the Pacific with my first stop being with Richard and Gene in Georgia. They took me into their home and I have treasured memories of the time spent with them and the boys. 

Being across the other side of the world, where time and distance can put restraints on things, we still kept the bonds of friendship strong through emails back and forth

My life will continue to change, and as those changes occur I will keep in mind the man who played such a pivotal role in my life, who helped me find myself and encouraged me to get where I am today, and  gives me the courage to continue to move forward

Thank you for everything you have done, and your memory will continue to do.

Love you mate

Your twin

Matthew

Matt, that's a beautiful tribute both to Rich and to yourself for having the courage to make a change.  All the best to you going forward, friend.  :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Meryl on August 05, 2010, 05:04:03 pm
A big group hug to you all.

xx

I second that emotion!   (http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Emoticons/grouphug2.gif)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sophia on August 05, 2010, 08:50:16 pm
Another update - Chuck, Paul, and I are all in Atlanta with Wayne.

thinking about you guys

A big hug to you all

Glad to hear that you arrived safe and sound.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sophia on August 05, 2010, 08:54:07 pm
Oh, thank you so much  :-*


Little did I know back in April 2007 that a simple trip to the video store to hire a DVD would change every aspect of my life. Watching "our film" began a time of questioning who I was or more accurately who I wasn't and although being married and with a daughter it was a time I felt utterly alone.

In my search of answers I came to bettermost and after reading a post from Richard I started a blog 10 days later entitled "Me too"


> Bless your heart ZK.
> Boy, are we two peas in a pod or what?
> I really do wish we were closer. Our situation is pretty darn identical.
> I sure wish you the best and I'm here if you need to talk.
> There are great people here that want to and will help you.
> I'm a mess right now but sometimes it helps to help others.
> Let me know if I can do anything.


This reply came from Richard and was the begining of a friendship that would cross the oceans and time zones.  We quickly became close friends, later he began to call me his twin. In time our daughters became penpals

In February 2009 I crossed the Pacific with my first stop being with Richard and Gene in Georgia. They took me into their home and I have treasured memories of the time spent with them and the boys. 

Being across the other side of the world, where time and distance can put restraints on things, we still kept the bonds of friendship strong through emails back and forth

My life will continue to change, and as those changes occur I will keep in mind the man who played such a pivotal role in my life, who helped me find myself and encouraged me to get where I am today, and  gives me the courage to continue to move forward

Thank you for everything you have done, and your memory will continue to do.

Love you mate

Your twin

Matthew
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 05, 2010, 10:29:11 pm
Truman and Jack spent much of the day with Gene and children. Now they have met up with us and we are all safely at Wayne's house. Judy is still on the road from Dallas.

Thank you for all your good thoughts and prayers. This is hard, and we've barely begun. :/
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 05, 2010, 11:22:06 pm
Friends, I would like to ask for you to open your hearts, and I know you all have for the past week but this time for others.

The driver of the vehicle Rich fell off of, the friends that invited them to the event, are devastated with pain and regret. Please send them healing energy as well, they could very much use it.

Words cannot adequately begin to describe what this day had been like. I sit here and so many things come to me. It was very much the intersection of many things.

I have this day held in my arms Gene, Marcia and Elizabeth, and Andrew and met his brothers. Bless them all.

Gene has been here and has read your comments and sends his appreciation.

Thank you Jack for making this trip with me, it had made it bearable. It was good to laugh, it was good to compare notes. It was good.

There will be more.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on August 05, 2010, 11:26:09 pm
Glad y'all are here.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 05, 2010, 11:36:25 pm
I had wondered about the driver, Truman. That would be a terrible feeling. Added them to my prayer list.

Sounds like you all have comforted and been comforted. There's a measure of consolation in just being together. We are all glad that you guys are there.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: serious crayons on August 05, 2010, 11:48:30 pm
We are all glad that you guys are there.

Definitely.

Thanks for checking in, Truman. My thoughts are with you all.



Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on August 06, 2010, 12:30:17 am
    i Have come in for a few moments to just say I am thinking of all of you there.
Specially Elizabeth, Gene and all of the rest of the family.  I cannot take being on
here for long.  Its just too hard.  I go through all the usual things.  Sadness, anger,
disbelief, wishing I could be there.  Poor Gene, '' I just can't say enough, about how
bad I feel.  I feel so useless and helpless.  Gene, Bizzy, Mom, and the boys.  Then
all of Richards family.  How much they have had to deal with this last year.  Its just
not fair.  I was telling my husband about how the world just seems to suck sometimes
so bad.  All I keep remembering is the time when I was leaving in San Francisco, kissed
him on the neck, and told him to be careful....I was thinking of different reasons.  Now
it seems to be about this time.  All those poor people that are feeling the responsibility
of being part of it.  Rich sure would not want that to be the case.  They didn't do it on
purpose.  It was an accident, plain and simple.  You cannot help them, that is why they
are called accidents..  love you all, and will be with you the whole time.  Janice
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 06, 2010, 12:50:51 am



(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Don%20Roe%20Cabin%20Weekend/DonWroesCabinPart2036.jpg)(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/don%20wroe%202/donwroe2richpaul.jpg)(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23854;image)
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Don%20Roe%20Cabin%20Weekend/DonWroesCabinPart2026.jpg)(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/SF%20Castro%20Bbm/SFCastroBBM087.jpg) Thinking of you all....

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 06, 2010, 01:05:03 am
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Don%20Roe%20Cabin%20Weekend/DonWroesCabinPart2036.jpg)(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/don%20wroe%202/donwroe2richpaul.jpg)(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23854;image)
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Don%20Roe%20Cabin%20Weekend/DonWroesCabinPart2026.jpg)(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/SF%20Castro%20Bbm/SFCastroBBM087.jpg) Thinking of you all....

Sweet pictures. Precious memories.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ZK on August 06, 2010, 01:52:49 am
Friends, I would like to ask for you to open your hearts, and I know you all have for the past week but this time for others.

The driver of the vehicle Rich fell off of, the friends that invited them to the event, are devastated with pain and regret. Please send them healing energy as well, they could very much use it.

Words cannot adequately begin to describe what this day had been like. I sit here and so many things come to me. It was very much the intersection of many things.

I have this day held in my arms Gene, Marcia and Elizabeth, and Andrew and met his brothers. Bless them all.

Gene has been here and has read your comments and sends his appreciation.

Thank you Jack for making this trip with me, it had made it bearable. It was good to laugh, it was good to compare notes. It was good.

There will be more.



I have you all in my prayers,  love Matt
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: sel on August 06, 2010, 03:37:57 am
I am thinking of you all. xxx
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 06, 2010, 04:29:12 am
Thinking of you all, wishing you strength.

Glad you're together.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 06, 2010, 04:51:23 am
I'm also glad you are all together. Sending a (((group hug))) to all of you.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 06, 2010, 05:01:30 am
Friends, I would like to ask for you to open your hearts, and I know you all have for the past week but this time for others.

The driver of the vehicle Rich fell off of, the friends that invited them to the event, are devastated with pain and regret. Please send them healing energy as well, they could very much use it.


Yes. They are included in my thoughts now.





Quote
Words cannot adequately begin to describe what this day had been like. I sit here and so many things come to me. It was very much the intersection of many things.

I have this day held in my arms Gene, Marcia and Elizabeth, and Andrew and met his brothers. Bless them all.

Gene has been here and has read your comments and sends his appreciation.

Thank you Jack for making this trip with me, it had made it bearable. It was good to laugh, it was good to compare notes. It was good.

There will be more.


Thank you for being there.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 06, 2010, 07:25:35 am
Tru, Jack, thankyou for being there with them, and to Tru for giving us update. I'll keep Rich's friends in my thoughts
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: optom3 on August 06, 2010, 11:23:41 am
I will keep everyone involved in my thoughts. I too struggle to come on here. I used to be up and posting with the lark, now I have to psyche myself up.
Please God you have all some joyful moments, remembering precious times as well as the inevitable pain of loss.

I send my love to you all. I hate the helplessness of the way I feel.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: LauraGigs on August 06, 2010, 02:05:24 pm
Friends, I would like to ask for you to open your hearts, and I know you all have for the past week but this time for others.
The driver of the vehicle Rich fell off of, the friends that invited them to the event, are devastated with pain and regret. Please send them healing energy as well, they could very much use it.
Words cannot adequately begin to describe what this day had been like. I sit here and so many things come to me. It was very much the intersection of many things.
I have this day held in my arms Gene, Marcia and Elizabeth, and Andrew and met his brothers. Bless them all.
Gene has been here and has read your comments and sends his appreciation.
Thank you Jack for making this trip with me, it had made it bearable. It was good to laugh, it was good to compare notes. It was good.
There will be more.

Those poor people.  I don't know the details (the driver and the friends? or the driver is one of the friends?)  But anyway all I can say is... those poor people.  Richard is at peace.  They will struggle the rest of their lives for peace.  An honest mistake is just that.  From the details given, it doesn't even seem like a mistake so much as a random accident.  Since Richard rode horses (sometimes breaking in new ones) and worked with heavy machinery, no one would think the conditions he was in that day were particularly dangerous.  It's just a random, sad thing.  But their hearts must break whenever they look at Biz, Gene, or any other of Rich's family.

Yes, sending thoughts of peace for them.

Thank you for all your accounts, Truman.   :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 06, 2010, 03:28:06 pm
What Laura said....

I don't know the details.  Maybe it's too soon or too painful to reveal them, maybe it's none of our business, I don't know, but I certainly can understand any and all actions or inactions that come after losing a loved one so dear.

The way I've pictured it for the last week is that he fell off a beautiful horse that he was trying to break, and hearing Gene say the sweet words "thought you said that mare couldn't throw you" at his hospital bedside, and Rich laughing with his reply "well, she got lucky".  I was pretty content, picturing this beautiful man's demise, if he had to go, coming in that way.

Damn, here come those tears again...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sophia on August 06, 2010, 07:07:02 pm
I never got the chance to meet Rich, and I didn't know about his blog until a couple of days ago. So I read the thread and I couldn't stop, it was so beautiful, and loving. What a great friend! You guys were lucky to have met him.
One thing stuck me very much was that Rich mentioned he had been to Chimney Rock (Elk penis) with his parents as a child, had such a good happy memories from that time.   

 A month ago Monika and I was there...

(http://i255.photobucket.com/albums/hh158/Sophia1A/RoadtripUSsummer2010580.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 06, 2010, 07:46:21 pm
My friends,

First let me apologize that my report that I want to be be long a verbose are not, but we are still riding this thing as long as we can.

Now, the important thing and let me say this loud and clear:

GET YOUR AFFAIRS IN ORDER ! DO IT NOW, DO NOT DELAY AND DO NOT PROCRASTINATE!

Is you are a gay or a single person especially make certain you have a living will for your partner or some one you trust to make medical decisions for you. If you have someone you mean to take care of, have a will, prepared by a lawyer, and have it in a safe place.

If you are an unmarried couple of any persuasion, you MUST educate yourself to the laws of your land and you MUST perpare yourself and your family for what WILL happen.

Nothing in this post should be construed as a cause of concern for for out current reason for mourning, but what we have seen the past few days, we have heard about and now it is very real.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 06, 2010, 10:20:20 pm
I would agree with that, Tru.  Even a single girl like me still has a house and car and property that's all paid for, and many things in this house, that if I was to die, I would want to go to a certain someone.  If this tragic accident has taught me anything, it did teach me to start writing out a will on notebook paper, to submit to a lawyer and put on record.

It's very sad, but completely understandable, that us healthy folks in our young years, don't think it's necessary.

But the experience that Gene is going through right now, as well as the rest of Rich's family, gives us all most definitely a lesson to be learned from this tragedy.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 07, 2010, 07:22:35 am
It's Saturday. My thoughts and my soul are in Georgia today. The tears just won't stop.
When this is already so hard on me, how unbearable this day must be for Gene, Elisabeth, the boys, all of Rich's loved ones. Tru, Chuck, Paul, Lynne, Jack, Judy, Wayne.
O my god, how I wish I could make it different. I know we all do.
 :'( :'( :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 07, 2010, 09:31:55 am
Chrissi, I am sitting here in the floor drinking coffee with Jack Paul and Wayne with Lynne in the shower. It is going to be a beautiful day here, hot, but beautiful. I will be thinking of you too, and you are right, we all wish we could make a difference.

We can't, so we are gong to stand it. And we will stand it together.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 07, 2010, 09:42:25 am
We are with you friend.  :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 07, 2010, 09:42:39 am
Thank you for your words Tru. I don't know why, but picturing you all together drinking coffee, with Lynne in the shower, is a comforting picture.
Yes, we are going to stand this together.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 07, 2010, 09:56:16 am
Didn't get a moment's sleep last night, thinking about what you all are going through.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 07, 2010, 10:11:02 am
Dearest Friends....

I am out of the shower now.  I appreciate Truman keeping y'all up to date on my personal hygiene.  What in the world would he post about if he could see behind that bathroom door?!

 ::) ;) 8)

Seriously...all dressed, boots polished, and a heavy heart.

I didn't like my 'funny anecdote' so I wrote something else last night.  It still seems to make sense to me this morning, so that part is good to go.

There just aren't words for how much I hate this though, so I'm not going to try to find any right now.

It is comforting to know that y'all are out there.  It's going to be a very long and difficult day in more ways that one, I'm afraid, and your thoughts winging our way will help tremendously.

Love to all,
Lynne
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Monika on August 07, 2010, 10:14:31 am
I think I speak for rest of us on the forum when I say that we all feel especially proud to know those of you who are in Georgia right now. Stay strong friends.


Here in Sweden it's a hot and sunny day. I have a butterfly in my room and right now it's sitting next to me on the bed. Looks like it's basking its red and black wings in the sunlight. What exactly is the butterfly effect? That something that is done on one side of the world, no matter how insignificant, can impact events on the other side of the world? During this past week I`ve been telling people - colleagues, friends and family members - about Rich, his struggles, his success and his death. Since there really isn´t much I can do about the situation, this has been my own very little of paying tribute to Rich.

Please remember that many people around the globe are thinking on you all today



 
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 07, 2010, 10:14:55 am
Hi dear Brokie friends,

I am now about two and a half hours from our beloved Brokies in Georgia, at a family wedding.  It took about 18 hours longer to get to this part of the country than we thought it would when we left home.  That cut into our trip time here quite a bit

I love this part of the family, and don't get to see them very often.  My cousin's daughter is getting married, and I got to meet her partner and his family last night.  They are lovely people.  This feels like a marriage that is right and full of love.

The wedding starts at 3pm, same time as the memorial service for Rich.  I will be thinking of you all at that time.  Right now the two events are not feeling so different - families and friends coming together to affirm their love and connection.

I'm still hoping to see our beloved Brokies on Sunday afternoon, when Mr. Meno, Mini-Meno, and I get back to Atlanta.  It's not clear yet from either end if that's going to be able to happen.

I am thinking of our loved ones.

Clarissa
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 07, 2010, 10:20:59 am
Paul, I do have your Rockmount shirt with me, in the hopes that I can return it to you in person.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Meryl on August 07, 2010, 10:42:24 am
I've got Rich and you all in my thoughts today.  Glad you have each other to lean on.  :'(  :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 07, 2010, 12:34:44 pm
Wish I could be down there with ((((((((((((((((y'all))))))))))))))))))).

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Marina on August 07, 2010, 12:40:55 pm
Thinking of (((((Rich))))) and everyone today as well.

I love your avatar, Fritzkep, it's like tipping your cowboy hat.  :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 07, 2010, 12:55:50 pm
I've got Rich and you all in my thoughts today.  Glad you have each other to lean on.  :'(  :-*

Wish I could be down there with ((((((((((((((((y'all))))))))))))))))))).

Me, too.

(http://www.sympathy-quotes.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/Sympathy-Card-011-450x281.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 07, 2010, 01:00:55 pm
Thinking of (((((Rich))))) and everyone today as well.

I love your avatar, Fritzkep, it's like tipping your cowboy hat.  :)

Thanks, Marina!

And just plain Fritz is fine!

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: optom3 on August 07, 2010, 01:57:46 pm
It has taken me all this time to get up the courage to post here today. I believe with all my heart that you all will be able to feel the world wide Brokie love that is being sent your way. It has always felt tangible to me.
I will have my silent time at 3.00pm and will send all the love in my heart to all of you there and  strength too. . I have nearly stopped being angry with God now, but it still creeps up on me sometimes.
You have the support of each other and that will help. There is nothing like a Brokie hug. Strange as it may seem, I hope there is laughter along with the tears as you also celebrate Richard's life. xx
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 07, 2010, 02:12:31 pm
As an update, we Brokies are at the hall where the service will start shortly.

Rest assured, Fiona, that there have been and will continue to be plenty of laughter to go along with the tears.

I was telling Ronny this morning that this time has been "cry a little, laugh a little, talk a little, laugh a little more."

I hear it in my head to the tune of The Music Man's Pick-a-Little ladies. :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 07, 2010, 02:19:19 pm
Know that song well, Lynne. Big hugs to everybody, please!

I'd just love to be belting out hymns with y'all.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 07, 2010, 02:33:23 pm
This feels like New Year's Eve, with Dick Clark.  I just keep watching the clock...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 07, 2010, 02:35:09 pm
Fritz - we wish that too - all of you, in fact.

Monika - there is a butterfly in the flower arrangement from Elizabeth and her Mom. There are no coincidences. I will post it later.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 07, 2010, 02:35:18 pm
A video I made for Rich:



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKZtRVbWjzY[/youtube]
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 07, 2010, 02:48:04 pm
Beautiful, Eric. Thank you.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: sel on August 07, 2010, 02:53:33 pm
A video I made for Rich:



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKZtRVbWjzY[/youtube]

A very beautiful tribute Eric!  I watched it through thick tears. Rich just emanates love, wish I had got to know him better.
My thoughts are with you all. A big hug to everyone.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 07, 2010, 03:02:15 pm
Singing to myself,

You who dwell in the shelter of the Lord,
who abide in His shadow for life,
say to the Lord: "My refuge, my rock in whom I trust!"

        Refrain:  And He will raise you up on eagles’ wings,
                      bear you on the breath of dawn,
                      make you to shine like the sun,
                      and hold you in the palm of His hand.

The snare of the fowler will never capture you,
and famine will bring you no fear:
under His wings your refuge, His faithfulness your shield.

        Refrain:  And He will raise you up on eagles’ wings,
                      bear you on the breath of dawn,
                      make you to shine like the sun,
                      and hold you in the palm of His hand.

You need not fear the terror of the night,
nor the arrow that flies by day;
though thousands fall about you, near you it shall not come.

        Refrain:  And He will raise you up on eagles’ wings,
                      bear you on the breath of dawn,
                      make you to shine like the sun,
                      and hold you in the palm of His hand.

For to His angels He's given a command
to guard you in all of your ways;
upon their hands they will bear you up,
lest you dash your foot against a stone.

Refrain:  And He will raise you up on eagles’ wings,
                      bear you on the breath of dawn,
                      make you to shine like the sun,
                      and hold you in the palm of His hand

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 07, 2010, 03:13:06 pm
A video I made for Rich:



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKZtRVbWjzY[/youtube]

Thank you for the video, Eric. What a sweet man Rich was.  
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 07, 2010, 03:16:26 pm
And what a beautiful couple they made.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 07, 2010, 03:31:24 pm
Eternal rest grand unto him O Lord
And let perpetual light shine upon him
May he rest in peace.

May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God rest in peace.

Amen.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: brianr on August 07, 2010, 04:13:45 pm
Eternal rest grand unto him O Lord
And let perpetual light shine upon him
May he rest in peace.

May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God rest in peace.

Amen.


Amen
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 07, 2010, 04:29:02 pm
The formal part of the service is over. We spoke our words, and we relayed yours. Thank you all for being here in mind and spirit.  

It was easier in some ways than we figured, likely due to the support here.

We will eventually be posting the program and some words, and we will send hard copies to anyone who would like - PM your address to me.  It may take a couple of weeks, though.  

That is all for now.

(Except that I swore at the preacher, said it was a damn shame he didn't get to marry them - he was a close friend, Gene said.)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 07, 2010, 04:47:04 pm
Eternal rest grand unto him O Lord
And let perpetual light shine upon him
May he rest in peace.

May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God rest in peace.

Amen.



Amen.

Said a prayer, sent my love and thoughts to the family and Brokies in GA, lit a candle.

♥♥Love and hugs to all.

Love you, Rich.


I'm glad I didn't swear at any preachers, Lynne.  :P   {{{{{{{LYNNE}}}}}}}



Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sophia on August 07, 2010, 04:50:43 pm
The formal part of the service is over. We spoke our words, and we relayed yours. Thank you all for being here in mind and spirit.  

It was easier in some ways than we figured, likely due to the support here.

We will eventually be posting the program and some words, and we will send hard copies to anyone who would like - PM your address to me.  It may take a couple of weeks, though.  

That is all for now.

(Except that I swore at the preacher, said it was a damn shame he didn't get to marry them - he was a close friend, Gene said.)

thank you Lynne for letting us now. And also thank you for making me giggle. You got some power there girl!  
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 07, 2010, 04:51:09 pm

The formal part of the service is over. We spoke our words, and we relayed yours. Thank you all for being here in mind and spirit.  

It was easier in some ways than we figured, likely due to the support here.

We will eventually be posting the program and some words and we  will send hard copies to anyone who would like - PM your address to me.  It may take a couple of weeks, though.  

That is all for now.




Thank you, Lynne.




(Except that I swore at the preacher, said it was a damn shame he didn't get to marry them - he was a close friend, Gene said.)


 :o :D

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 07, 2010, 04:53:58 pm
Thank you Lynne.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 07, 2010, 04:55:30 pm
Thank you, Lynne. Appreciate it.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Meryl on August 07, 2010, 05:16:24 pm
Thanks, Lynne, and thanks, Eric, for that wonderful video.  It's a keeper.  :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 07, 2010, 05:21:01 pm
Eric, I can't see the video. Neither here, nor on FB, nor on youtube itself. The comment I get is:
"This video contains content of Sony Music Entertaiment. It is no longer available in your country." I get this message in German, of course, with the double "content" in it.


I'm sad I can't see it, but I bet it is wonderful.
 :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on August 07, 2010, 05:21:41 pm
Quote from: CellarDweller on August 01, 2010, 07:56:48 pm
((((Janice))))

(((((Chuck)))))    (((((Truman)))))   (((((Jeff))))))   (((((Scott))))))   ((((Jack))))
(((((Kelda))))))    (((((Paul))))      (((((Eric))))))      (((((Fritz))))))    (((Laura))))

(((((Chrissi)))))    (((((Lynne)))))    (((((Wayne)))))   (((((Matt)))))  ((((David))))

(((((Judy)))))      ((((Marcia))))       ((((Shasta))))))    ((((Meryl))))   ((((Lee R))))

                     
(((((ALL the people who knew and loved Richard)))))   I hope that you can all receive
peace and a quieted heart in your days now, and ahead.  For the pain will not end in
one day.)))))   I pray for his beloved daughter( Elizabeth,) and his beloved (Gene) and his ( boys) (Mother) &  (Richards brothers)  most of
all.  They are going to need it, the rest of their lives.  I will always hold you in my heart.

 I love you so very dearly my dear son

Janice
   
[youtube=425,350] [youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cxqylxfYyQM[/youtube][/youtube]
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 07, 2010, 05:22:38 pm
Well, I hope he is whooping it up in that great prairie of clouds and stars, rodeoing, lassoing the stars and staying on for 8 eternal seconds! And the bleachers will be filled with angels, I'm sure!

I'm also sure it was a jolly pastor, Lynne!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Monika on August 07, 2010, 05:24:29 pm
Thank you, Lynne.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 07, 2010, 05:25:46 pm
A video I made for Rich:



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKZtRVbWjzY[/youtube]

This is so beautiful, Eric. Thank you.

The pictures speak of a wonderful and loving person.

I only wish I'd got to know him better in life, not only through photos after his death.  :-\

When the memorial service started, I was sitting on a train on my way home, thinking about you all.

I'm so glad you were there together, supporting each other.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 07, 2010, 05:33:49 pm
The formal part of the service is over. We spoke our words, and we relayed yours. Thank you all for being here in mind and spirit.  

It was easier in some ways than we figured, likely due to the support here.

We will eventually be posting the program and some words and we will send hard copies to anyone who would like - PM your address to me.  It may take a couple of weeks, though.  

That is all for now.
(Except that I swore at the preacher, said it was a damn shame he didn't get to marry them - he was a close friend, Gene said.)

Thank you for the report, Lynne.

Glad it wasn't as hard as you thought, although I'm sure it was hard enough as it was.

((((((((((( Brokies )))))))))))))



Good for you, swearing at the preacher!  ;)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 07, 2010, 05:44:25 pm
I have just updated my video for Rich.  Please view this new video:



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKZtRVbWjzY[/youtube]
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 07, 2010, 05:50:10 pm
I have just updated my video for Rich.  Please view this new video:



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKZtRVbWjzY[/youtube]

Beautiful. Thank you Eric.

I see you addes some more pictures, they just add to the overall impression of a lovable and loving man.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 07, 2010, 05:53:58 pm
Wonderful video and the song is so appropriate! Thank you Eric! A guy who was photographed so much must be beloved among many! The only thing that hurts is not seeing Wyoming or Alberta around him in some of those pictures.  :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 07, 2010, 06:08:15 pm
The only thing that hurts is not seeing Wyoming or Alberta around him in some of those pictures.  :'(

Yeah.  :(   You can say that twice and mean it.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 07, 2010, 06:08:47 pm
Thank you, Eric. You've made it even more beautiful.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 07, 2010, 06:17:49 pm
I have just updated my video for Rich.  Please view this new video:



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKZtRVbWjzY[/youtube]

Still can't see it, same comment. But I like the pic very much, of Rich on  horseback, smiling so happy.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 07, 2010, 06:38:54 pm
Still can't see it, same comment. But I like the pic very much, of Rich on  horseback, smiling so happy.

Sorry Chrissi.  There's some copyright thing because of the music, which I have no control over.  I'll email the video to you.

Eric
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 07, 2010, 08:19:11 pm
Good work was done today by everyone the world over, because we were standing in witness to love. Ellemeno in Tennessee was at a wedding, the people all over were with us. Eric posted a beautiful video, Messages the world over were read. In one small town in Georgia the people witnesses love.

This was more than saying good bye to Rich, because of the way the world has been it was also an opportunity to educate and to learn. There were people in a small southern town witnessed the love of two men for each other, witness the love of their children for them, witnessed the love of their friends and coworkers and neighbors, and not one disparaging word was said, no one appeared to be any more uncomfortable than the sad occasion. I would say there was at least 200 people there. The hard work of Gene and his family and friends paid off handsomely. He would be so proud of them.

This world is a better place because Richard Wilson lived in it. His life is a testament to truth, and love, and right. It will continue to be a better place because we are going to continue to make it so.

This is the urn that contains Rich's ashes, and the inscription"
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 07, 2010, 08:23:05 pm
This is Delilah
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 07, 2010, 08:24:16 pm
Rich's mother, Lynne and Paul
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 07, 2010, 08:27:21 pm
This is me and my new friend Andrew, whose heart is also as big as his Dads.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 07, 2010, 08:29:50 pm
The room where the service was hled, filling up with people.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 07, 2010, 08:32:03 pm
 :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 07, 2010, 08:32:52 pm
Gene and Elizabeth after the service.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 07, 2010, 09:37:55 pm
Gene and Elizabeth after the service.

{{{{{{{GENE♥ELIZABETH}}}}}}}

Thank you for the pictures and the words, Truman.
 

 :'(  :'(  :'(  :'(

"This world is a better place because Richard Wilson lived in it. His life is a testament to truth, and love, and right. It will continue to be a better place because we are going to continue to make it so."   :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 07, 2010, 09:49:54 pm
Thanks for the pictures, Truman.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SuperDistortion on August 07, 2010, 10:05:37 pm
Thanks for the pictures, Truman, and that video was beautiful, Eric.  The inscription on the urn got me good.

Love you all.

Ronny
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: tforster on August 07, 2010, 10:54:46 pm
Oh, gosh... beautiful, moving video and great photos... he was so loved! ... what a fortunate man he was.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 07, 2010, 11:05:00 pm




Eric's video is amazing. AMAZING. No words needed.

Elizabeth: omg, what a beautiful girl! And such kind eyes.

Rich's mom. Again, no words needed. (Poor Lynne, your face, your eyes.)

And Delilah.

And Gene with Elizabeth at the piano.

....


Thank you again for sharing these heartbreaking, wonderful images, all tumbled in one's head. The people at the service. The inscription on the plaque. Kenny Chesney (that's a song I'll remember, now, till--ever, I guess).

I've only MET Rich, in person, a couple of times during that fun-filled February more than two years ago. A couple of PMs since. A thoughtful Christmas Card from Rich last December.

Amazing really--how does one ever know--does one ever think--when you see some one--that the last time you see someone might be the last  time, ever?

....


Anyway, thanks again for Representin' us Away People (as if you didn't have a lot on your minds). Travel safely home. Hope to see you all soon in NY, in September.


xxxx
John
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Meryl on August 07, 2010, 11:05:42 pm
Good work was done today by everyone the world over, because we were standing in witness to love. Ellemeno in Tennessee was at a wedding, the people all over were with us. Eric posted a beautiful video, Messages the world over were read. In one small town in Georgia the people witnesses love.

This was more than saying good bye to Rich, because of the way the world has been it was also an opportunity to educate and to learn. There were people in a small southern town witnessed the love of two men for each other, witness the love of their children for them, witnessed the love of their friends and coworkers and neighbors, and not one disparaging word was said, no one appeared to be any more uncomfortable than the sad occasion. I would say there was at least 200 people there. The hard work of Gene and his family and friends paid off handsomely. He would be so proud of them.

This world is a better place because Richard Wilson lived in it. His life is a testament to truth, and love, and right. It will continue to be a better place because we are going to continue to make it so.

Thank you, Truman.  And so may it be. ♥
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: David In Indy on August 08, 2010, 01:44:41 am
Thank you for posting those pictures Truman. They really hit home though. Part of me didn't believe Rich was really gone. And those pictures finally dispelled any doubts I had. Denial is a river in Egypt I guess, and well....

:'( :'(

My mind has been on Richard all day today. All week really. And on poor Gene and Elizabeth. I remember when Mom died. I kept very busy before the funeral - making plans at the funeral home for the visitation, at the church for her funeral mass, picking out her coffin, the obituary, and people were constantly stopping by the house to pay their condolences. But after the funeral, that was when it got very difficult for me. And for Dad. That was when the finality of it all really registered. When the people stopped coming, when the phone calls stopped....

I fear this is what Gene and Elizabeth are about to face, now that the memorial service is over. It is right after when things seem the most difficult. At least that is how it was for me.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 08, 2010, 01:59:38 am
Hey y'all, it's wdj on paulie's acct, love you, so glad we are sharing this strange world together. it was an intensely emotional day, very touched by how Rich and Gene brought some very diverse communities together. So very sad, but something beautiful around us. thank you all for letting me be part of your lives.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: sel on August 08, 2010, 03:16:08 am
This world is a better place because Richard Wilson lived in it. His life is a testament to truth, and love, and right. It will continue to be a better place because we are going to continue to make it so.

Hey y'all, it's wdj on paulie's acct, love you, so glad we are sharing this strange world together. it was an intensely emotional day, very touched by how Rich and Gene brought some very diverse communities together. So very sad, but something beautiful around us. thank you all for letting me be part of your lives.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 08, 2010, 03:59:09 am
Good work was done today by everyone the world over, because we were standing in witness to love. Ellemeno in Tennessee was at a wedding, the people all over were with us. Eric posted a beautiful video, Messages the world over were read. In one small town in Georgia the people witnesses love.

This was more than saying good bye to Rich, because of the way the world has been it was also an opportunity to educate and to learn. There were people in a small southern town witnessed the love of two men for each other, witness the love of their children for them, witnessed the love of their friends and coworkers and neighbors, and not one disparaging word was said, no one appeared to be any more uncomfortable than the sad occasion. I would say there was at least 200 people there. The hard work of Gene and his family and friends paid off handsomely. He would be so proud of them.

This world is a better place because Richard Wilson lived in it. His life is a testament to truth, and love, and right. It will continue to be a better place because we are going to continue to make it so.


Thank you.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: magicmountain on August 08, 2010, 04:09:04 am
I remembered this passage from a book I read long ago and it made me think of Rich and the extraordinary outpouring of love and affection for him in evidence here.

"There are always on earth four thousand persons who are, so to speak, saints without knowing it. These are they who are born with a natural goodness, which lifts them without effort to a point that most labor to reach in vain - loyal, gentle, unselfish souls, endowed with a natural intuition of good and a natural inclination to pursue it, the stay and comfort of those who enjoy the blessing of their society, and, when they have passed away, perhaps canonized in the hearts of one or two who loved them. Spontaneous goodness of this sort is not to be submitted to rules or forms; the inward inclination, not the outward ordinances, is the source of their goodness. 'Against such there is no law.'"

- Idries Shah, The Sufis
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: optom3 on August 08, 2010, 10:26:33 am
Beautiful, Eric. Thank you.



Just so beautiful, I agree.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: optom3 on August 08, 2010, 10:48:00 am
Thank you for posting those pictures Truman. They really hit home though. Part of me didn't believe Rich was really gone. And those pictures finally dispelled any doubts I had. Denial is a river in Egypt I guess, and well....

:'( :'(

My mind has been on Richard all day today. All week really. And on poor Gene and Elizabeth. I remember when Mom died. I kept very busy before the funeral - making plans at the funeral home for the visitation, at the church for her funeral mass, picking out her coffin, the obituary, and people were constantly stopping by the house to pay their condolences. But after the funeral, that was when it got very difficult for me. And for Dad. That was when the finality of it all really registered. When the people stopped coming, when the phone calls stopped....

I fear this is what Gene and Elizabeth are about to face, now that the memorial service is over. It is right after when things seem the most difficult. At least that is how it was for me.



David you are so right. When the sister of my kids nanny died at only 33.She said I was the only friend  who carried on calling her. Eveyryone else thought that was it once the service was done.

I know Brokies though and the love and caring will continue well into those terrible weeks after.
 It finally really hit home like a soccer punch to the guts when I saw the urn.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sophia on August 08, 2010, 10:48:50 am
Thank you so much Truman for letting us be a part of memorial
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dontwanttosayGB on August 08, 2010, 11:53:16 am
Chrissi, I am sitting here in the floor drinking coffee with Jack Paul and Wayne with Lynne in the shower. It is going to be a beautiful day here, hot, but beautiful. I will be thinking of you too, and you are right, we all wish we could make a difference.

We can't, so we are gong to stand it. And we will stand it together.

Just catching up on the thread now, will have to read the next pages later as am running out the door but really just wanted to say to Tru, and everyone else, (and I am playing on words from Tru's and Chrissi's posts as they jumped out at me) that yes, we can't make it different but we can make a difference...we actually do all make a difference, every single one of us makes a difference, for being here in this thread, for being part of Rich's life over the last three four years, for those being in Georgia over the weekend, for those far away who have kept Rich and his family and friends in their thoughts and prayers...and Rich also made a difference, he made a difference to all those he knew...for all these things and for many more I am not listing, for all this we can and do make a difference...

You have all been in my thoughts this weekend...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 08, 2010, 12:02:05 pm
Thank you Tru, Paul, Lynne, Wayne....
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 08, 2010, 12:04:04 pm
A video I made for Rich:



[youtube=425,350]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UKZtRVbWjzY[/youtube]

Lovely.  :'( :-\
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 08, 2010, 01:38:09 pm
Good work was done today by everyone the world over, because we were standing in witness to love. Ellemeno in Tennessee was at a wedding, the people all over were with us. Eric posted a beautiful video, Messages the world over were read. In one small town in Georgia the people witnesses love.

This was more than saying good bye to Rich, because of the way the world has been it was also an opportunity to educate and to learn. There were people in a small southern town witnessed the love of two men for each other, witness the love of their children for them, witnessed the love of their friends and coworkers and neighbors, and not one disparaging word was said, no one appeared to be any more uncomfortable than the sad occasion. I would say there was at least 200 people there. The hard work of Gene and his family and friends paid off handsomely. He would be so proud of them.

This world is a better place because Richard Wilson lived in it. His life is a testament to truth, and love, and right. It will continue to be a better place because we are going to continue to make it so.


Beautiful words, beautiful pictures. Thank you, Truman.

And thanks to all of you who were in Georgia, you have all been in my thoughts this weekend.

Safe travels home.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 08, 2010, 01:49:16 pm
I remembered this passage from a book I read long ago and it made me think of Rich and the extraordinary outpouring of love and affection for him in evidence here.

"There are always on earth four thousand persons who are, so to speak, saints without knowing it. These are they who are born with a natural goodness, which lifts them without effort to a point that most labor to reach in vain - loyal, gentle, unselfish souls, endowed with a natural intuition of good and a natural inclination to pursue it, the stay and comfort of those who enjoy the blessing of their society, and, when they have passed away, perhaps canonized in the hearts of one or two who loved them. Spontaneous goodness of this sort is not to be submitted to rules or forms; the inward inclination, not the outward ordinances, is the source of their goodness. 'Against such there is no law.'"

- Idries Shah, The Sufis

Oh yes, that was him. Still human and not without faults, but yes, that was Rich.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 08, 2010, 02:00:03 pm
Hiya Brokies.

I'm using Paul's laptop to post, as I don't have my own.   I hate them!

 :laugh: :laugh:

Many thanks to Wayne and Cliff for being gracious hosts and giving us a place to stay, and rides when needed.  You made this trip much easier.

Thank you Judy, Wayne, Jack, Paul, Lynne, & Truman.  You all were my rock when I needed it, giving me comfort and strength when required.

Thank you Matthew for giving me the honor of reading your words at the memorial.  They touched many  people, and as Rich put in his first post on your blog,  "sometimes it helps to help others."  I'm so glad I could help you with this.

Gene & the boys......Aunt Chuck loves you!

Bizzy and Marcia.  I wish we had met under other circumstances.  I can see how wonderful you are.

Big Brother Rich.  Thank you for all the love and support you gave me when you were with me in our brief friendship.  You taught me much, and I hope you learned from me as well.

Godspeed, and keep an eye out for me from up there!  You know the kind of trouble I can find.   ;) ;D

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 08, 2010, 02:15:10 pm
Chuck, I'm so glad you posted.  I was worried about you.  Safe trip home, buddy.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 08, 2010, 02:22:51 pm
Gene & the boys......Aunt Chuck loves you!

;D You are such a character!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 08, 2010, 02:26:53 pm
Where was the picture of Rich taken--the one on the home page? That is a beautful image--whoever took it--great catch.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Aloysius J. Gleek on August 08, 2010, 02:36:26 pm


Gene & the boys......Aunt Chuck loves you!

 :laugh: :-* ;D

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 08, 2010, 03:13:46 pm
Good to hear from you Chuck! :)


Safe travels for all of you :-*.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 08, 2010, 04:27:49 pm
Hiya Brokies.

I'm using Paul's laptop to post, as I don't have my own.   I hate them!

 :laugh: :laugh:

Many thanks to Wayne and Cliff for being gracious hosts and giving us a place to stay, and rides when needed.  You made this trip much easier.

Thank you Judy, Wayne, Jack, Paul, Lynne, & Truman.  You all were my rock when I needed it, giving me comfort and strength when required.

Thank you Matthew for giving me the honor of reading your words at the memorial.  They touched many  people, and as Rich put in his first post on your blog,  "sometimes it helps to help others."  I'm so glad I could help you with this.

Gene & the boys......Aunt Chuck loves you!

Bizzy and Marcia.  I wish we had met under other circumstances.  I can see how wonderful you are.

Big Brother Rich.  Thank you for all the love and support you gave me when you were with me in our brief friendship.  You taught me much, and I hope you learned from me as well.

Godspeed, and keep an eye out for me from up there!  You know the kind of trouble I can find.   ;) ;D



Wonderful, Chuck. Have a safe trip home.

And I really laughed out loud when you wrote Aunt Chuck. Earl looked at me quizically.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on August 08, 2010, 04:35:51 pm
 :'( :-* :) :'(  
love to you friends. thank you for sharing this heart-breaking and beautiful time. i miss you already.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 08, 2010, 04:56:22 pm
Hiya Brokies.

I'm using Paul's laptop to post, as I don't have my own.   I hate them!

 :laugh: :laugh:

Many thanks to Wayne and Cliff for being gracious hosts and giving us a place to stay, and rides when needed.  You made this trip much easier.

Thank you Judy, Wayne, Jack, Paul, Lynne, & Truman.  You all were my rock when I needed it, giving me comfort and strength when required.

Thank you Matthew for giving me the honor of reading your words at the memorial.  They touched many  people, and as Rich put in his first post on your blog,  "sometimes it helps to help others."  I'm so glad I could help you with this.

Gene & the boys......Aunt Chuck loves you!

Bizzy and Marcia.  I wish we had met under other circumstances.  I can see how wonderful you are.

Big Brother Rich.  Thank you for all the love and support you gave me when you were with me in our brief friendship.  You taught me much, and I hope you learned from me as well.

Godspeed, and keep an eye out for me from up there!  You know the kind of trouble I can find.   ;) ;D



((((Chuck))))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 08, 2010, 05:04:45 pm
Shasta - we don't know details about that picture. It was in the slideshow shown at the Memorial. It is beautiful, isn't it?

Eric - I watched your video last night, and it was both lovely and heart-wrenching. Thank you for doing that.

Lynne
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Sason on August 08, 2010, 05:38:15 pm
Hiya Brokies.

I'm using Paul's laptop to post, as I don't have my own.   I hate them!

 :laugh: :laugh:

Many thanks to Wayne and Cliff for being gracious hosts and giving us a place to stay, and rides when needed.  You made this trip much easier.

Thank you Judy, Wayne, Jack, Paul, Lynne, & Truman.  You all were my rock when I needed it, giving me comfort and strength when required.

Thank you Matthew for giving me the honor of reading your words at the memorial.  They touched many  people, and as Rich put in his first post on your blog,  "sometimes it helps to help others."  I'm so glad I could help you with this.

Gene & the boys......Aunt Chuck loves you!

Bizzy and Marcia.  I wish we had met under other circumstances.  I can see how wonderful you are.

Big Brother Rich.  Thank you for all the love and support you gave me when you were with me in our brief friendship.  You taught me much, and I hope you learned from me as well.

Godspeed, and keep an eye out for me from up there!  You know the kind of trouble I can find.   ;) ;D



Thanks for posting, Chuck. I'm glad you did, wondered how you are.

Safe trip home everyone.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bailey1205 on August 08, 2010, 06:05:59 pm
Shasta - we don't know details about that picture. It was in the slideshow shown at the Memorial. It is beautiful, isn't it?

Eric - I watched your video last night, and it was both lovely and heart-wrenching. Thank you for doing that.

Lynne

I believe it was taken on a trip he took to Sacramento to visit a friend in the fall of 2007.
I remember him texting the picture to me at the time.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on August 08, 2010, 06:12:15 pm


Truman:
     Thanks so much for those pictures for those of us that could not be there.  Especially
the one of ((((Elizabeth and Gene))))   he would have loved that picture so much.  I will
treasure it always.  I loved her bare feet.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bizzysmom on August 08, 2010, 07:30:37 pm
I'm not sure why but after one week (of many more to come) of mourning Richard, I found myself reading posts on your web site. I haven't been to this web site in well over a year, probably closer to 2 years but for some reason this afternoon, it dawned on me to read more about Richard.   I'm not sure that I am welcome here but there is a big hole in my heart and reading some of your posts just makes me feel better.  Then I read the posts about my daughter and some even mentioned me.  After not crying for 24 hours, I found tears in my eyes again.  I have known Richard for 20 years and during those years, I think I have had every title in the book.  But in the end, we were best friends again and were raising a beautiful daughter.  I know that she was his light and for any that have met her, she has a heart as big as her dads.  I am heart broken over the loss of my best friend but my heart just aches for Elizabeth.  I know he loved (and still does) Gene and the boys and I hurt for them too.  Together, we are all pulling together to laugh, cry and heal.  We are now family which is what he wanted.   I had the pleasure of meeting some of the names I have heard for years this weekend.  I'm so sorry that we had to meet this way but in a small way, I can hear Richard saying "told ya so".  I don't want to post much here because this was Richards home but you all touhed my heart so much that I had to register and tell you so myself.  Richard taught me to say it when I felt it so that is what I am doing.  He left this world knowing I loved him very much - he was surrounded by wonderful friends and family who cared deeply for him.   He is missed so much more then words can say -
Thank you all very much for supporting him in his time of need,
Marcia (Elizabeths mom)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 08, 2010, 07:34:02 pm
We welcome your presence here, Marcia. Come join us in mourning and celebrating the life of our mutual friend.  :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on August 08, 2010, 07:48:51 pm
We are now family which is what he wanted.
Love to you Marcia, I'm so glad you're here. Rich and Elizabeth are a blessing for so many people.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bailey1205 on August 08, 2010, 08:13:44 pm
I'm not sure why but after one week (of many more to come) of mourning Richard, I found myself reading posts on your web site. I haven't been to this web site in well over a year, probably closer to 2 years but for some reason this afternoon, it dawned on me to read more about Richard.   I'm not sure that I am welcome here but there is a big hole in my heart and reading some of your posts just makes me feel better.  Then I read the posts about my daughter and some even mentioned me.  After not crying for 24 hours, I found tears in my eyes again.  I have known Richard for 20 years and during those years, I think I have had every title in the book.  But in the end, we were best friends again and were raising a beautiful daughter.  I know that she was his light and for any that have met her, she has a heart as big as her dads.  I am heart broken over the loss of my best friend but my heart just aches for Elizabeth.  I know he loved (and still does) Gene and the boys and I hurt for them too.  Together, we are all pulling together to laugh, cry and heal.  We are now family which is what he wanted.   I had the pleasure of meeting some of the names I have heard for years this weekend.  I'm so sorry that we had to meet this way but in a small way, I can hear Richard saying "told ya so".  I don't want to post much here because this was Richards home but you all touhed my heart so much that I had to register and tell you so myself.  Richard taught me to say it when I felt it so that is what I am doing.  He left this world knowing I loved him very much - he was surrounded by wonderful friends and family who cared deeply for him.   He is missed so much more then words can say -
Thank you all very much for supporting him in his time of need,
Marcia (Elizabeths mom)

Marcia, bless your heart.

(((Hugs)))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Andrew on August 08, 2010, 08:58:17 pm
Marcia, it is so wonderful to have you post here.  This has been a week for tears and coming together for many people.  I am glad so many of my friends from this forum were able to travel and meet you and the rest of Richard's family this weekend.  He will always have a big place here where he was so tremendously loved - what he wrote and said to people will always be treasured.  It's an honor to have you come by. 

Andrew
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 08, 2010, 08:59:54 pm
Welcome to BetterMost, Marcia.

I'm glad to see you here.  It was great to meet you, and Bizzy is going to grow into a beautiful woman. 

I'm keeping her (and you) in my thoughts.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 08, 2010, 09:14:09 pm
In regards to the "Aunt Chuck"......  :laugh:

Gene had made the comment in passing as a joke, and the boys thought it was hysterical.  I heard about it from Truman after I had arrived in Georgia.  I sent Gene a text that simply said "Aunt Chuck?!?!"

Suddenly my phone was flooded with texts from the boys an their friend Mitch all saying "We love Aunt Chuck!"

So I guess now I am officially Aunt Chuck.

 :laugh:

But let's get something straight here!  Only the boys (and Bizzy if she chooses) can get away with this.   ;)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Meryl on August 08, 2010, 09:41:01 pm
In regards to the "Aunt Chuck"......  :laugh:

But let's get something straight here!  Only the boys (and Bizzy if she chooses) can get away with this.   ;)

That's a very wise rule you've laid down Chuck.  You'd never hear the end of it otherwise!  ;D

Glad you're back safe.  ((((Chuck))))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 08, 2010, 09:55:24 pm
I'm not sure why but after one week (of many more to come) of mourning Richard, I found myself reading posts on your web site. I haven't been to this web site in well over a year, probably closer to 2 years but for some reason this afternoon, it dawned on me to read more about Richard.   I'm not sure that I am welcome here but there is a big hole in my heart and reading some of your posts just makes me feel better.  Then I read the posts about my daughter and some even mentioned me.  After not crying for 24 hours, I found tears in my eyes again.  I have known Richard for 20 years and during those years, I think I have had every title in the book.  But in the end, we were best friends again and were raising a beautiful daughter.  I know that she was his light and for any that have met her, she has a heart as big as her dads.  I am heart broken over the loss of my best friend but my heart just aches for Elizabeth.  I know he loved (and still does) Gene and the boys and I hurt for them too.  Together, we are all pulling together to laugh, cry and heal.  We are now family which is what he wanted.   I had the pleasure of meeting some of the names I have heard for years this weekend.  I'm so sorry that we had to meet this way but in a small way, I can hear Richard saying "told ya so".  I don't want to post much here because this was Richards home but you all touhed my heart so much that I had to register and tell you so myself.  Richard taught me to say it when I felt it so that is what I am doing.  He left this world knowing I loved him very much - he was surrounded by wonderful friends and family who cared deeply for him.   He is missed so much more then words can say -
Thank you all very much for supporting him in his time of need,
Marcia (Elizabeths mom)

Thank you for your post. It means a lot. We hope the best for you and Elizabeth. We will miss Rich and I can't even imagine what you guys are going through. I hope in some way we can all be a blessing to you all. I know we will look forward to news of Elizabeth and her activities as she grows up. :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 08, 2010, 09:57:14 pm
I'm not sure why but after one week (of many more to come) of mourning Richard, I found myself reading posts on your web site. I haven't been to this web site in well over a year, probably closer to 2 years but for some reason this afternoon, it dawned on me to read more about Richard.   I'm not sure that I am welcome here but there is a big hole in my heart and reading some of your posts just makes me feel better.  Then I read the posts about my daughter and some even mentioned me.  After not crying for 24 hours, I found tears in my eyes again.  I have known Richard for 20 years and during those years, I think I have had every title in the book.  But in the end, we were best friends again and were raising a beautiful daughter.  I know that she was his light and for any that have met her, she has a heart as big as her dads.  I am heart broken over the loss of my best friend but my heart just aches for Elizabeth.  I know he loved (and still does) Gene and the boys and I hurt for them too.  Together, we are all pulling together to laugh, cry and heal.  We are now family which is what he wanted.   I had the pleasure of meeting some of the names I have heard for years this weekend.  I'm so sorry that we had to meet this way but in a small way, I can hear Richard saying "told ya so".  I don't want to post much here because this was Richards home but you all touhed my heart so much that I had to register and tell you so myself.  Richard taught me to say it when I felt it so that is what I am doing.  He left this world knowing I loved him very much - he was surrounded by wonderful friends and family who cared deeply for him.   He is missed so much more then words can say -
Thank you all very much for supporting him in his time of need,
Marcia (Elizabeths mom)

Dear Marcia,

I am very glad that you came over to BetterMost and posted here.  Please feel welcome anytime.  Rich was a treasured member of our community and a close friend to many of us.

I loved what you had to say at the Memorial Service, and although obviously I hate the circumstances under which we met, it was good to meet both you and Elizabeth.  I'd seen hundreds (probably literally) of pictures of Elizabeth, but had never met her before - Rich was right in both ways - she is growing up too fast and she is a delightful young woman.  As I hope I remembered to say, you don't know and love Rich without understanding his love and commitment to his family.

I hope that we can continue to be a part of your lives and watch her grow as time passes.

With my deepest sympathy,
Lynne
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 08, 2010, 10:02:44 pm
In regards to the "Aunt Chuck"......  :laugh:

Gene had made the comment in passing as a joke, and the boys thought it was hysterical.  I heard about it from Truman after I had arrived in Georgia.  I sent Gene a text that simply said "Aunt Chuck?!?!"

Suddenly my phone was flooded with texts from the boys an their friend Mitch all saying "We love Aunt Chuck!"

So I guess now I am officially Aunt Chuck.

 :laugh:

But let's get something straight here!  Only the boys (and Bizzy if she chooses) can get away with this.   ;)



You know good and well that Aunt Chuck is going to be Truman's new name for ou. LOL.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Meryl on August 08, 2010, 10:07:16 pm
I'm not sure why but after one week (of many more to come) of mourning Richard, I found myself reading posts on your web site. I haven't been to this web site in well over a year, probably closer to 2 years but for some reason this afternoon, it dawned on me to read more about Richard.  I'm not sure that I am welcome here but there is a big hole in my heart and reading some of your posts just makes me feel better.  Then I read the posts about my daughter and some even mentioned me.  After not crying for 24 hours, I found tears in my eyes again.  I have known Richard for 20 years and during those years, I think I have had every title in the book.  But in the end, we were best friends again and were raising a beautiful daughter.  I know that she was his light and for any that have met her, she has a heart as big as her dads.  I am heart broken over the loss of my best friend but my heart just aches for Elizabeth.  I know he loved (and still does) Gene and the boys and I hurt for them too.  Together, we are all pulling together to laugh, cry and heal.  We are now family which is what he wanted.   I had the pleasure of meeting some of the names I have heard for years this weekend.  I'm so sorry that we had to meet this way but in a small way, I can hear Richard saying "told ya so".  I don't want to post much here because this was Richards home but you all touhed my heart so much that I had to register and tell you so myself.  Richard taught me to say it when I felt it so that is what I am doing.  He left this world knowing I loved him very much - he was surrounded by wonderful friends and family who cared deeply for him.   He is missed so much more then words can say -
Thank you all very much for supporting him in his time of need,
Marcia (Elizabeths mom)

Marcia, thank you for stopping by here to join us in mourning and celebrating Rich.  You're more than welcome, so don't worry about that.  I think Andrew said how we feel very eloquently.

I often think of Elizabeth because she's at such a tender age to lose her Dad.  It helps to know she has lots of love and support from you and Gene and the boys.  She's such a beautiful young girl, and she deserves all the best in life. 

Please come by as often as you like and say hey. :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bizzysmom on August 08, 2010, 10:08:57 pm
Thanks "Uncle" Chuck however, Elizabeth did tell me you were Aunt Chuck.  I'm sure it's something her dad put her up to  :)
It was nice to meet you too but I wish it were under different circumstances.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 08, 2010, 10:12:22 pm
We are now family which is what he wanted. 

Marcia,

It was a pleasure meeting you this weekend.  Thank you for your recollections of Richard.  Seeing all the photos of your life together, as well as hearing stories from his coworkers, family and other friends, helped to give me a fuller view of his life.  

Elizabeth carried herself so well; you should be very proud.  

Love to you,
Paul
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 08, 2010, 10:15:18 pm

So I guess now I am officially Aunt Chuck.

 :laugh:


By the way, it's pronounced Ain't  Chuck. 
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 08, 2010, 11:10:19 pm
Well Truman got me back to Asheville safe and sound around 6:30 from Rich's service. I am hoping that he is also now home safe and sound in Virginia. After the past few days I am kind of at a loss of words to say right now. I feel pretty much emotionally and physically drained. There is no way I would have missed going to the service so I am very glad that everything went as well as could be expected. I have no doubts at all that everything went just as Rich would have wanted it. Being home now after the past few days, everything seems so quiet up here on the mountain. About all I hear now are the crickets chirping outside and the hum of this computer. I lit a red candle in Rich's remembrance and realized I was lighting it with a green lighter. For some reason, that reminded me of Christmas which was a time that Rich always seemed to really enjoy and a time that he always sent cards and love to all those close to him. Let me tell you that after seeing all those people at the service that was a LOT of people and that was only the people that were able to make it. Rich sure did touch and was a part of so many people. I met so many of those people who were a part of Rich's life. I feel that I have acquired a whole lot of new friends and I am happy for that. I feel also that my bonds with Truman, Lynne, Chuck, and Paul have strengthened even more solidly plus I got to know Judy much better. I am also very happy about that. It was so wonderful meeting Gene, Elizabeth, Andrew, Austin, and Sean in person after hearing so much about them and seeing so many of their pictures. Rich did indeed have a Sweet and Rich life. I am so happy that he found these wonderful people. The only thing that is still very sad to me is that Rich could not be there physically although his spirit was very much there and still is.

Jack
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 08, 2010, 11:16:57 pm
Marcia, that first post you wrote was one of the most beautiful passages I've ever read.  It was quite surprising to see, but most welcome, as others have said.  You must be a very brave and strong and courageous and understanding woman, and I admire you.

Please know that we are always here to support and to love, and to talk through things anytime you want to stop by.

Even though I couldn't be there on Saturday, at the time of his service, I was framing the photo of him as a young boy and the photo of him with the horse, and the last PM he sent me in between.  I hung it up in my living room where I would always be reminded of this sweet man and how comforting and precious he was, to myself and countless others that he touched.

I am beyond sorry for what you must be going through.  Bizzy is a lucky girl for having a mom like you.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 09, 2010, 12:56:12 am
Where was the picture of Rich taken--the one on the home page? That is a beautful image--whoever took it--great catch.

I believe it was taken on a trip he took to Sacramento to visit a friend in the fall of 2007.
I remember him texting the picture to me at the time.

That is correct.  It is Lake Tahoe.









Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 09, 2010, 01:07:36 am
Marcia,

Thank you for seeking us out here and for your touching post.  It means a lot to me to see you here.  We are all here and were brought together here because of a little movie and short story called Brokeback Mountain.  Many of the themes, issues, and challenges in the movie and story no doubt you and Rich had to deal with first hand in the last three years.  We are sympthetic and understanding to that, and I just want you to know that you are welcome here with open arms just as much as are our friend Rich was too...  :)

Eric
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 09, 2010, 04:34:31 am
I'm not sure why but after one week (of many more to come) of mourning Richard, I found myself reading posts on your web site. I haven't been to this web site in well over a year, probably closer to 2 years but for some reason this afternoon, it dawned on me to read more about Richard.   I'm not sure that I am welcome here but there is a big hole in my heart and reading some of your posts just makes me feel better.  Then I read the posts about my daughter and some even mentioned me.  After not crying for 24 hours, I found tears in my eyes again.  I have known Richard for 20 years and during those years, I think I have had every title in the book.  But in the end, we were best friends again and were raising a beautiful daughter.  I know that she was his light and for any that have met her, she has a heart as big as her dads.  I am heart broken over the loss of my best friend but my heart just aches for Elizabeth.  I know he loved (and still does) Gene and the boys and I hurt for them too.  Together, we are all pulling together to laugh, cry and heal.  We are now family which is what he wanted.   I had the pleasure of meeting some of the names I have heard for years this weekend.  I'm so sorry that we had to meet this way but in a small way, I can hear Richard saying "told ya so".  I don't want to post much here because this was Richards home but you all touhed my heart so much that I had to register and tell you so myself.  Richard taught me to say it when I felt it so that is what I am doing.  He left this world knowing I loved him very much - he was surrounded by wonderful friends and family who cared deeply for him.   He is missed so much more then words can say -
Thank you all very much for supporting him in his time of need,
Marcia (Elizabeths mom)


Marcia,
thank you for your heartfelt post. You are part of Rich's family and mother of his precious Bizzy, please know that you are welcome here.
We all love and care about Rich, and now we're here to mourn him and to celebrate his life. Thank you for joining us in this.
My sincere condolences,
Chrissi
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 09, 2010, 04:37:19 am
Hi Marcia.

Please know that you're always welcome here.

(((Marcia)))

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: David In Indy on August 09, 2010, 04:46:54 am
Marcia, I second everyone else. You are always welcome here.

Richard was the greatest of friends. I just wish I could have felt his embrace, only once. He was a real friend. He always knew when to mail me a card or a PM containing encouraging words.

This world shall always be the better for people like Rich. :-*

And at the very least, I hope you, along with Gene and Elizabeth find comfort in this thread and in the common bond of love we all share for Richard.

And may God rest his sweet sweet soul! :'( :'( :-*



Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 09, 2010, 04:58:25 am
And at the very least, I hope you, along with Gene and Elizabeth find comfort in this thread and in the common bond of love we all share for Richard.


David, I love how you said this.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 09, 2010, 09:09:28 am
Our deepest thanks and love to the BetterMost members who went to Georgia to pay last respects to dear Rich and to carry our thoughts to his friends and family.
 :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 09, 2010, 09:44:27 am
Marcia, I second everyone else. You are always welcome here.

Richard was the greatest of friends. I just wish I could have felt his embrace, only once. He was a real friend. He always knew when to mail me a card or a PM containing encouraging words.

This world shall always be the better for people like Rich. :-*

And at the very least, I hope you, along with Gene and Elizabeth find comfort in this thread and in the common bond of love we all share for Richard.


And may God rest his sweet sweet soul! :'( :'( :-*

Well said, David.  You always seem to have the right words when I struggle for them.   :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: sel on August 09, 2010, 10:35:58 am
(((((Marcia)))))

You too are in my thoughts.
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: CellarDweller on August 09, 2010, 10:37:29 am

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=BBM

Just bumping this up, in case people still want to light candles for Rich.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: milomorris on August 09, 2010, 12:25:03 pm
Together, we are all pulling together to laugh, cry and heal.  We are now family which is what he wanted.

Welcome, Marcia. That is a beautiful and powerful thing.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: optom3 on August 09, 2010, 01:01:16 pm
Welcome, Marcia. That is a beautiful and powerful thing.

An arms wide open from me too .
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dejavu on August 09, 2010, 01:18:31 pm
She's 12.  :-\



Oh...I have been wondering so much, but I couldn't get on a computer until now since I'm out of town.

12 is so very young, I had thought a little older.  I will be keeping Elizabeth in my thoughts, along with Gene.

And thanks, Truman and Chuck, for the new information you've been adding, answering our quesions about how the accident happened.

Still have to catch up with the rest of this thread, so there's a lot I don't know yet.  The memorial service was the same day as my uncle's birthday party in Colorado, it turns out, so I couldn't have been at the memorial anyway, but I hope to read about it here.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dejavu on August 09, 2010, 01:33:37 pm
hi everyone,
i have been on here and reading this thread for the past few days and wanting to contribute, but there really isn't much that i can add to all  the heartfelt messages everyone has already posted. they were very moving and touching.
i had met rich twice, in sf and again in nyc. i didn't know him very well but i know alot of people who really loved him so i know he was a wonderful man. he had everything going for him, a beautiful daughter that he adored, a life partner who was the love of his life  and a new business. there is just no sense to this.  so many people are going to miss him. this should not have happened. like mandi said, it just makes you want to hit a wall.
and fiona, i know we don't know each other, but what you wrote about the threads was absolutely beautiful and made me cry.
and eric, i am so happy for you and  mike, congratulations!!!! you deserve it.
and ted, enjoy your new life with jari. you deserve the best.
to everyone here , i give you my deepest sympathies and condolences. he is going to be so missed.
love,
teresa   


(((((Teresa)))))

I'm so glad to see you here.  You say exactly what I have been feeling.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: belbbmfan on August 09, 2010, 02:01:53 pm
hi friends,

This is the first time I've logged in in a while and then to read this... I'm at a loss for words. I never met Rich in person but I had read messages in his blog and felt joy at the happiness he had eventually found. His love for his daughter, the sweet life.

I had to go tell my husband about this, we've been dealing with our own grief at the passing of a close family member and good friend of ours. I read a quote on this thread 'grief is the price we pay for love', and that really sums it up, doesn't it. 

I'd like to offer my condolences to Rich's family and his many many friends and that you find comfort in all the good memories that you share and shared with us here.

Such sadness....it ain't right... :'(

Hugs to you all.
Fabienne
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dejavu on August 09, 2010, 02:05:53 pm
As an update, we Brokies are at the hall where the service will start shortly.

Rest assured, Fiona, that there have been and will continue to be plenty of laughter to go along with the tears.

I was telling Ronny this morning that this time has been "cry a little, laugh a little, talk a little, laugh a little more."

I hear it in my head to the tune of The Music Man's Pick-a-Little ladies. :)

Thanks for posting this, Lynne.  I  hope everyone who was able to attend has found some comfort there by being with others who care.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 09, 2010, 02:13:41 pm
hi friends,

This is the first time I've logged in in a while and then to read this... I'm at a loss for words. I never met Rich in person but I had read messages in his blog and felt joy at the happiness he had eventually found. His love for his daughter, the sweet life.

I had to go tell my husband about this, we've been dealing with our own grief at the passing of a close family member and good friend of ours. I read a quote on this thread 'grief is the price we pay for love', and that really sums it up, doesn't it. 

I'd like to offer my condolences to Rich's family and his many many friends and that you find comfort in all the good memories that you share and shared with us here.

Such sadness....it ain't right... :'(

Hugs to you all.
Fabienne


Fabienne, it's good to see you here :-*.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 09, 2010, 02:17:18 pm
hi friends,

This is the first time I've logged in in a while and then to read this... I'm at a loss for words. I never met Rich in person but I had read messages in his blog and felt joy at the happiness he had eventually found. His love for his daughter, the sweet life.

I had to go tell my husband about this, we've been dealing with our own grief at the passing of a close family member and good friend of ours. I read a quote on this thread 'grief is the price we pay for love', and that really sums it up, doesn't it. 

I'd like to offer my condolences to Rich's family and his many many friends and that you find comfort in all the good memories that you share and shared with us here.

Such sadness....it ain't right... :'(

Hugs to you all.
Fabienne


Fabienne, it's good to see you here :-*.

Just what I was about to say that...

 (((Fabienne)))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 09, 2010, 02:17:58 pm
So sorry for your grief, Fabienne.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dejavu on August 09, 2010, 02:18:30 pm
Hiya Brokies.

I'm using Paul's laptop to post, as I don't have my own.   I hate them!

 :laugh: :laugh:

Many thanks to Wayne and Cliff for being gracious hosts and giving us a place to stay, and rides when needed.  You made this trip much easier.

Thank you Judy, Wayne, Jack, Paul, Lynne, & Truman.  You all were my rock when I needed it, giving me comfort and strength when required.

Thank you Matthew for giving me the honor of reading your words at the memorial.  They touched many  people, and as Rich put in his first post on your blog,  "sometimes it helps to help others."  I'm so glad I could help you with this.

Gene & the boys......Aunt Chuck loves you!

Bizzy and Marcia.  I wish we had met under other circumstances.  I can see how wonderful you are.

Big Brother Rich.  Thank you for all the love and support you gave me when you were with me in our brief friendship.  You taught me much, and I hope you learned from me as well.

Godspeed, and keep an eye out for me from up there!  You know the kind of trouble I can find.   ;) ;D



So glad that you checked in, Chuck.  You are sounding like the weekend gave you comfort, indeed.  I woke up in the middle of the night one night out here, worrying about you.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 09, 2010, 07:42:30 pm
Dear Marcia,

Leaving Atlanta I was so worn out that I decided to take "Aent Chuck's" advice and take a couple of days off from keeping up with this thread, keeping up with facebook and honestly I did enjoy being back at work today dealing with problems that I know how to deal with.

I am glad however I gave into temptation and came and saw you here. It meant so much to meet you and Bizzy and Gene, such a surreal moment, but seeing your words here now fills my heart with a great joy, because it is healing. It is all of us stepping out of the shadows and just being who we are. It bring the journey full circle in a way. Welcome, and thank you again.

Truman

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: LauraGigs on August 09, 2010, 08:12:26 pm
Well Truman got me back to Asheville safe and sound around 6:30 from Rich's service. I am hoping that he is also now home safe and sound in Virginia. After the past few days I am kind of at a loss of words to say right now. I feel pretty much emotionally and physically drained. There is no way I would have missed going to the service so I am very glad that everything went as well as could be expected. I have no doubts at all that everything went just as Rich would have wanted it. Being home now after the past few days, everything seems so quiet up here on the mountain. About all I hear now are the crickets chirping outside and the hum of this computer. I lit a red candle in Rich's remembrance and realized I was lighting it with a green lighter. For some reason, that reminded me of Christmas which was a time that Rich always seemed to really enjoy and a time that he always sent cards and love to all those close to him. Let me tell you that after seeing all those people at the service that was a LOT of people and that was only the people that were able to make it. Rich sure did touch and was a part of so many people. I met so many of those people who were a part of Rich's life. I feel that I have acquired a whole lot of new friends and I am happy for that. I feel also that my bonds with Truman, Lynne, Chuck, and Paul have strengthened even more solidly plus I got to know Judy much better. I am also very happy about that. It was so wonderful meeting Gene, Elizabeth, Andrew, Austin, and Sean in person after hearing so much about them and seeing so many of their pictures. Rich did indeed have a Sweet and Rich life. I am so happy that he found these wonderful people. The only thing that is still very sad to me is that Rich could not be there physically although his spirit was very much there and still is.

Jack

What a wonderful update and post, Jack.  Thank you!!!   :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bizzysmom on August 09, 2010, 08:25:43 pm
Hi Truman,

I'm so glad I got to meet you.  Once the divorce was over and wounds had healed, Richard mentioned your name several times - so did Mimi.  I felt like a part of me knew you a little but after meeting you, I felt much better.  You had some very nice and thoughtful things to say to me, which I will keep private, however; I really appreciate your understanding and for being there when Richard needed you.  That goes for all of his friends here.  

I logged on tonight to read more about Richard.  I told someone yesterday that he came here trying to find himself and now I'm here trying to find him.  I wasn't sure what I would find but everyone has been very nice and supportive.   I have read some older posts that I decided not to look at anymore - we both had moved past that so no use going backwards.  

Elizabeth started school today - I was so worried about her all day.  I called her the minute school was out and she did great.  She has classes with her friends, she likes her teachers (it's only day 1) and life was good.  I wish I could say the same about going back to work but my mind wasn't on work-I was only there physically.  But..baby steps - each day should get a little better.  

As you can see, I can ramble on like Richard so I will close with saying thank you to everyone here!  

Marcia
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dontwanttosayGB on August 09, 2010, 08:54:34 pm
The power of friendship...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on August 10, 2010, 12:29:22 am
Thank you Marcia - it means so much for you to be here. So glad to hear Elizabeth's happy being back in school. Wishing all the best for you, Elizabeth, Gene and the boys, Mimi, and all the family.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 10, 2010, 01:31:08 am
Hi Marcia,

Thank you for the update on Elizabeth.  Please, feel free to come here and ramble on as much as you need to.  We are here for you.  :)    We are also still trying to come to terms with what has happened too...  :-\ 
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: David In Indy on August 10, 2010, 02:37:11 am
Well said, David.  You always seem to have the right words when I struggle for them.   :-*


{{{{{SISTER MOD}}}}}}

:-* :-*

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 10, 2010, 04:26:29 am
Marcia.... thankyou for keeping us updated on Elizabeth. I'm so glad she had a good first day...


Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: optom3 on August 10, 2010, 11:26:25 am
I am posting these words for all those who loved and still do (love never dies) Richard.

 In fact for anyone who has ever lost anyone dear to them. I have no idea who to credit with the words but they express so tenderly, how it feels to lose a loved one.

It broke my heart to lose you, but you did not go alone.
For part of me went with you,the day God took you home.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 10, 2010, 12:21:27 pm
I was just on hold on the telephone, and the music was Eva Cassidy's "Over the Rainbow". 

I hear ya, Rich!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 10, 2010, 12:38:30 pm
I was just on hold on the telephone, and the music was Eva Cassidy's "Over the Rainbow". 

I hear ya, Rich!

 :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on August 10, 2010, 01:50:30 pm
part of me went with you, the day God took you home.
and likewise, part of him stays with each of us.

thx optom, hugs y'all
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 10, 2010, 06:04:10 pm
(((((((((Hugs all o' y'all!))))))))))))

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: ifyoucantfixit on August 10, 2010, 10:50:00 pm


   Marcia:

   I was so glad to see you here, touching the people that Rich had touched so deeply.
I was very happy to see that Elizabeth is apparently doing well.  I hope you do as well.
Please come here any time you feel the need to talk or vent.  We will be here for you,
any time you feel the need.  You will find that the people here have open hearts, to any
and all who need that.  Best of luck to you, and may God hold you in his hands.  Janice
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: David In Indy on August 11, 2010, 12:59:32 am
I was just on hold on the telephone, and the music was Eva Cassidy's "Over the Rainbow". 

I hear ya, Rich!

:'( :'(

But isn't it comforting when little things like that happen? And they seem to happen quite often, if we take the time to pay attention to them.

Yeah, that was Richard for sure. At least I think so. :)

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 11, 2010, 01:18:57 am
I was just on hold on the telephone, and the music was Eva Cassidy's "Over the Rainbow". 

I hear ya, Rich!


:-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 11, 2010, 03:59:13 am
I was just on hold on the telephone, and the music was Eva Cassidy's "Over the Rainbow". 

I hear ya, Rich!

 :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 12, 2010, 07:41:19 am
Any one wishing to make a contribution to Elizabeth's education, please contact me privately for details.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bizzysmom on August 12, 2010, 09:48:27 pm
Hi Everyone,

Since you all know Elizabeth (Bizzy) so well, I wanted to update you.  She started school this week and is loving it (it's only been 4 days).  On the 2nd day, there was a little jealousy over a friend and she told me she heard her dad whisper in her ear "don't let it get to you" so she got up and went and sat with another friend.  Her dad is still beside her guiding her through her day.

Bizzy is still handling this through laughter and humor.  That is how she chooses to remember her dad.  I'm following her lead but break down once she goes to bed.  She is my rock and a very strong little girl.  Richard and I both agreed we did something right in this world to have a daughter this wonderful.  I see that more and more every day.   I am so blessed and proud to be her mom

It's getting late and I don't sleep well right now but I wanted to update you on the status of Biz since she is part of your lives too.

Marcia


Marcia
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 12, 2010, 09:59:50 pm
Thank you very much for the update, Marcia.

Fritz

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 13, 2010, 12:19:51 am

On the 2nd day, there was a little jealousy over a friend and she told me she heard her dad whisper in her ear "don't let it get to you" so she got up and went and sat with another friend.  Her dad is still beside her guiding her through her day.


Yep, that's Rich alright!  A trait I always admired about him.  :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 13, 2010, 04:21:45 am
Thanks for letting us know Marcia!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 13, 2010, 05:58:42 am
On the 2nd day, there was a little jealousy over a friend and she told me she heard her dad whisper in her ear "don't let it get to you" so she got up and went and sat with another friend.  Her dad is still beside her guiding her through her day.

 ;D

yeah, that's Rich alright!

Marcia, thanks for putting your difficult time aside and making time for us and giving us updates on Elizabeth.  It's very appreciated.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 13, 2010, 12:33:56 pm
I need to catch up on the thread since I have not had enough time in the past few days to read the new posts. It has been what you would call a hectic week. There have been little things that have happened that reminded me of Rich. It still doesn't quite seem real to me even though I was at the service and even spoke. Now Rich I will say that you are one of the very, very, very few people that would get me up in front of a large group of people to say anything. However, you are completely and totally worth a few minutes of extreme nervousness on my part :-) Another thing I have noticed is that I seem to be paying more attention to the sky. I do see an extremely bright star up there that reminds me of you. The day before yesterday I received my Leanin' Tree Christmas cards catalog in the mail. For those of you who don't know, that is where Rich ordered his great cowboy Christmas cards like the one he sent many of us last year.....The Cowboy's Prayer. I had asked him where he got his cards and Leanin' Tree was the place.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on August 13, 2010, 02:38:15 pm
Thanks for the story Marcia. Wishing all the best for you, Elizabeth, Gene, the boys, and Mi-Mi.   :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 13, 2010, 09:38:24 pm
Hi Everyone,

Since you all know Elizabeth (Bizzy) so well, I wanted to update you.  She started school this week and is loving it (it's only been 4 days).  On the 2nd day, there was a little jealousy over a friend and she told me she heard her dad whisper in her ear "don't let it get to you" so she got up and went and sat with another friend.  Her dad is still beside her guiding her through her day.

Bizzy is still handling this through laughter and humor.  That is how she chooses to remember her dad.  I'm following her lead but break down once she goes to bed.  She is my rock and a very strong little girl.  Richard and I both agreed we did something right in this world to have a daughter this wonderful.  I see that more and more every day.   I am so blessed and proud to be her mom

It's getting late and I don't sleep well right now but I wanted to update you on the status of Biz since she is part of your lives too.

Marcia


Marcia,

Thanks for the update about Bizzy. I am really glad to hear that she is still handling the situation so well. I think that she gets a lot of being strong for others from Richard. Even when Richard was the most confused he was always there to help others through their confusion. He helped me through a very confusing part of my life and I keep hearing about others who he also helped. I'm sure that she also gets a lot of being strong from you as well. I agree that you and Richard did do something wonderful by having such an incredible daughter. I am very glad that you decided to come here and share your thoughts and feelings. I truly think that Richard would think and is thinking that it is wonderful that you decided to come here and continue friendships that were very important to him. I am very glad that I got to meet you and I hope we can continue our friendship.

Jack
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 14, 2010, 11:50:09 am
(http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s204/jstephens9/AtlantaAugust2010006.jpg)


Chuck, Paul, Truman, Wayne and Lynne.

This was Thursday night when we all arrived. Chuck flew in from New Jersey, Lynne and Paul flew in from Boston, and Truman and I arrived by car thanks to Truman's excellent driving ability. Wayne and Cliff (not pictured) let us stay at their house for Rich's service. Truman and I actually arrived after everyone had eaten even though Lynne gave us her salad. That was after we ate lots of pizza at Gene's house. Truman and I went up to Dawsonville and spent several hours with Gene when we first arrived in Georgia. We also met the boys, Elizabeth, and Marcia. Gene was gracious enough to invite us for dinner and even offered us a place to stay for the night. Gene is an incredibly nice person and I will always be glad that Rich found him. Rich deserved someone special and he certainly found that in Gene.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 14, 2010, 11:57:07 am
(http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s204/jstephens9/AtlantaAugust2010105.jpg)

The group again although this time I am in the picture too. From left to right.....Judy, Paul, Jack (Me), Lynne, Wayne, and Truman. I think that is Cliff who has the camera on top of Wayne's head.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 14, 2010, 12:01:57 pm
(http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s204/jstephens9/AtlantaAugust2010017.jpg)

Lynne shows Chuck what to do with biscuits and gravy.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 14, 2010, 12:38:42 pm
Does anyone else feel like this has been the longest two weeks in history?
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 15, 2010, 11:42:04 pm
Yes, Mandy, a long two weeks...surreal.

Marcia - thank you very much for checking in here and posting about how you and Elizabeth are getting by. I appreciate both the chance to get to know you and to keep up with her. I think Rich would have appreciated that.

I know it has been said before, but y'all are family too.

If you're interested, let me or David In Indy know, and we can set you up with your own private blog, as opposed to this single thread - maybe a place of your own to talk about how things are going, post your own pictures, whatever you want?  I know it helps me to write about my own life, just to clarify my thoughts.

It would be our pleasure.

Everybody else - Paul and I are going to try to get copies of the memorial service program mailed out early this week. If you haven't PM'd me your snail mail address and you would like one, please do so ASAP.

Love,
Lynne
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: David In Indy on August 16, 2010, 01:32:32 am
I have been thinking about Richard every single day since this whole awful ordeal happened. And it's weird - but weird in a very good way - because even though I never met Rich in person I can feel his presence here from time to time. Almost as if he's watching over me. Do any of you sense this too? Or is it just my imagination?

I still have those cards he mailed me sitting right here next to my computer. I got them out the minute I learned he was in hospital and on life support. I can't seem to put them back in the drawer. I feel better with them sitting here next to me.

Anyway, yeah Mandy, it's been a long two weeks. For all of us, I suspect.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 16, 2010, 02:12:45 am
I have been thinking about Richard every single day since this whole awful ordeal happened. And it's weird - but weird in a very good way - because even though I never met Rich in person I can feel his presence here from time to time. Almost as if he's watching over me. Do any of you sense this too? Or is it just my imagination?

I still have those cards he mailed me sitting right here next to my computer. I got them out the minute I learned he was in hospital and on life support. I can't seem to put them back in the drawer. I feel better with them sitting here next to me.

Anyway, yeah Mandy, it's been a long two weeks. For all of us, I suspect.


(((David)))


I just reread some pages of Rich's blog :'( and wanted to repost a picture I came across:


(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=17747.0;attach=24209;image)


Rich posted it on his two years anniversary on BM. He posted some memories of those two years.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 16, 2010, 02:21:00 am
About a month later, Rich talked about Gene for the first time on BM. I just reread our reactions, how happy we all were for him.
 
And Truman posted these words we all know:

Go to sleep, may your sweet dreams come true
Just lay back in my arms for one more night
I've this crazy old notion that calls me sometimes
Saying this one's the love of our lives.

Cause I know a love that will never grow old
And I know a love that will never grow old.

When you wake up the world may have changed
But trust in me, I'll never falter or fail
Just the smile in your eyes, it can light up the night,
And your laughter's like wind in my sails.

Lean on me, let our hearts beat in time,
Feel strength from the hands that have held you so long.
Who cares where we go on this rutted old road
In a world that may say that we're wrong.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 16, 2010, 04:41:10 am
That's a bee-you-tee-ful picture of bee-you-tee-ful people.  

Title: Re: The Dead Letter Office
Post by: Ellemeno on August 16, 2010, 05:41:41 am
I haven't known where to post this, so I'll do it here - the last thing Rich posted on facebook, he found on my facebook page, and he did it the morning of the accident.  It's a link to a little essay called, "How to really love a child."  I got it from my friend Heather Kennedy, and Rich got it from me.

http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=424957885853&id=1318778270&ref=mf



How to really love a child


Be there.

Say yes as often as possible.

Let them bang on pots and pans.

If they’re crabby, put them in water.

If they’re unlovable, love yourself.

Realize how important it is to be a child.

Go to a movie theater in your pajamas.

Read books out loud with joy.

Invent pleasures together.

Remember how really small they are.

Giggle a lot.

Surprise them.

Say no when necessary.

Teach feelings.

Heal your own inner child.

Learn about parenting.

Hug trees together.

Make loving safe.

Bake a cake and eat it with no hands.

Go find elephants and kiss them.

Plan to build a rocket ship.

Imagine yourself magic.

Make lots of forts with blankets.

Let your angel fly.

Reveal your own dreams.

Search out the positive.

Keep the gleam in your eye.

Encourage silly.

Plant licorice in your garden.

Open up.

Stop yelling.

Express your love.

A lot.

Speak kindly.

Paint their tennis shoes.

Handle with caring.

CHILDREN ARE MIRACULOUS

(source: SARK http://www.planetsark.com/eshop_products_posters_feat_02.htm)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 16, 2010, 06:08:21 am
Not a day goes by where I don't think of my big brother.

I still have his number in my phone, and email address in my contact list.

I don't know why this happened, but I'm grateful for the time I had with Rich, the phonecalls and emails we had, and the visits that happened where I got to hold him.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 16, 2010, 07:50:07 am
(((((Chuck)))))

I still have a Linked In invite from Rich that was awaiting response from me.  I hardly ever go there, been in my box for weeks. And no, he won't be coming out of my Blackberry either.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 16, 2010, 05:51:41 pm
I can't delete him out of my phone either.  No way...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bizzysmom on August 16, 2010, 07:12:34 pm
I can't stop thinking about him either - laughing, crying, getting really angry, etc....  I sit at work and I'm just a shell.  Mentally, my mind isn't at work.  We both agreed to raise our daughter together.  I would call him when Elizabeth would push my buttons and he would get on the phone and let her have it - he backed me up when he heard her sassing me, etc...  She is about to hit her teen years and I'm scared.... For 17 years, we talked  every day -  for the past 3 years, at least 4-5 times a week - it's been two weeks and it hits me more and more that I can't hear him.  I have to hide to breakdown since Elizabeth is handling it different...she knows every way is right but she chooses to remember his laugh.  I will follow suit (in front of her).  A part of my heart died with him-I have never felt like this before and am not sure how to handle  it.

I would love to share with you the pictures of Richard that I have -  It's from a different time in his life though. 

Is that appropriate?
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 16, 2010, 07:34:00 pm
Oh, Marcia, of course it's appropriate.  We would love to see your pictures of Richard.  We know he wasn't born yesterday! 

In fact, I really enjoyed seeing the photos at the service of you and him before we all knew him.  (His weight yo-yoed just like some of us....)

By the way, don't be surprised if Elizabeth's reaction changes over time; she may be defending against her sadness, and it could come out in mysterious ways. 
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: milomorris on August 16, 2010, 08:20:40 pm
I would love to share with you the pictures of Richard that I have -  It's from a different time in his life though. 

Is that appropriate?

I think that would be a great idea. It would give those of us who didn't know him as closely some more insight into who he was.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 16, 2010, 08:31:43 pm
Amen to that, Milo. Never enough pictures of Rich, never enough.

I'm a little jealous of those of you who got to know him in person, but am happy to have had the contact that we did.

"May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, May God hold you in the hollow of his hand."

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 16, 2010, 10:16:58 pm
Marcia - I think it is entirely appropriate for you to post about your time with Rich and photos from before we knew him.

As Paul said, the slideshow was terrific in that we got to see Rich before we knew him.

Post to your heart's content.

If you ever feel the need to talk to a female type, I am available. We can PM or set up a time to chat.

Hugs to you and Elizabeth. I can't even conceive of how hard this must be for you both.

Love,
Lynne
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shasta542 on August 16, 2010, 10:51:38 pm


{{{{{MARCIA}}}}}

I can't imagine a relationship much closer than one that shares a child. Your feelings are so legitimate. It's a testament to both of you that you stayed in touch and in tune to your daughter's life. That does not always happen.

I'd enjoy seeing your pictures, too.
 
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 16, 2010, 11:14:17 pm
I agree, I think it is appropriate for you to share your photos and memories of him.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 17, 2010, 01:39:00 am
Rich was mentioned during the Riderless Horse Ceremony here at the SF Gay Rodeo this past weekend...

They mentioned his "stumbling upon" the SF Gay Rodeo in 2007, and going on to become a member of the Georgia Gay Rodeo Association, and competing in the Fort Lauderdale Gay Rodeo in 2008.

About the Riderless Horse Cermony:
http://asgra.org/riderless.htm
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 17, 2010, 04:57:46 am
Oh wow, Eric, he would have loved that wouldn't he.

Marcia - as other have said post away! And Like Lynne, if you ever need a chat, you know where I am.. I'm aslo on facebook!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 17, 2010, 09:13:00 am
Rich was mentioned during the Riderless Horse Ceremony here at the SF Gay Rodeo this past weekend...

They mentioned his "stumbling upon" the SF Gay Rodeo in 2007, and going on to become a member of the Georgia Gay Rodeo Association, and competing in the Fort Lauderdale Gay Rodeo in 2008.


That's beautiful, Eric! I would have been a basket case, watching that... :'(   The rodeo's early this year!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: fritzkep on August 17, 2010, 05:53:01 pm
Thank you so much for posting that, Eric.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 17, 2010, 09:30:38 pm
Just catching up. Thanks for the photos from the service.

Love to you all!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Wayne on August 17, 2010, 10:17:52 pm
Thanks for the photos Eric... my friend Brad (who some of y'all met at the service here) knew Rich through rodeo here and was also at the SF rodeo last weekend. He said he was going to read something brief at the ceremony.

I posted some of his photos from the rodeo over at my FB page. Hugs y'all.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 09:32:47 am
For anyone who would like to light a candle for Rich.

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=BBM
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Meryl on August 19, 2010, 10:30:26 am
Thanks for reminding us about the candles, Chuck.  :-*
Title: Re: All Brokies read! Emergency!!!!!!
Post by: Jeff Wrangler on August 19, 2010, 11:05:29 am
For anyone who would like to light a candle for Rich.

http://www.gratefulness.org/candles/candles.cfm?l=eng&gi=BBM


Sure, Chuck. Go ahead. Give me a heart attack. I saw that "Emergency!" in the Recent Posts list, and the first thing I thought was, "Oh, no, now what's happened?!?!?!"

 :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:12:54 am
Sure, Chuck. Go ahead. Give me a heart attack. I saw that "Emergency!" in the Recent Posts list, and the first thing I thought was, "Oh, no, now what's happened?!?!?!"

 :-*


Oooops!  Sorry!  I forgot that the older posts would have that old title.

I changed my thread title in the last post, as well as this one.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:16:02 am
I would love to share with you the pictures of Richard that I have -  It's from a different time in his life though. 

Is that appropriate?

I think this would be a great idea, Marcia.

I noticed that many people stopped into the room that had the TV on, playing the DVD with all the pics of Rich on it through the years.  It was very touching to see everyone just sitting back and learning about Rich and the people he knew/loved though the images on the DVD.

Perhaps we all should do this....post pics of Rich we have in our collections, for everyone to see and enjoy.  You'd be able to see some of the things Rich did with us, and we'd be able to see some of the things Rich did with you and Bizzy.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:20:37 am
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/SF%20Castro%20Bbm/SFCastroBBM087.jpg)

San Fran Rodeo.....where I first met Rich and Truman.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:21:56 am
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/SF%20Castro%20Bbm/SFCastroBBM070.jpg)


My fave pic of me and Rich.....He was leaning on me, little did he know I had blown out my knee, and I was wearing a brace.  I was worried we were gonna topple over.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:23:00 am
It was at this moment that Rich learned there is NO privacy at Brokie meetings.



 :laugh: :laugh:






(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/SF%20Castro%20Bbm/SFCastroBBM035.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:27:37 am
Don Wroe cabin weekend.


(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Don%20Roe%20Cabin%20Weekend/DonWroesCabinPart2007.jpg)


Lynne, Rich, Truman, Paul and me.

Truman had written an email to me and Rich about the San Fran rodeo, and said how he always wanted little brothers, and though of me and Rich as his little brothers.  This appealed to me because I'm the oldest in my family, and I never had "big brothers".  We later added Paul as the 4th brother, I believe this may be one of the few (or only) pics of all 4 of the brothers in one spot.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:29:35 am
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Don%20Roe%20Cabin%20Weekend/DonWroesCabinPart2010.jpg)(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Don%20Roe%20Cabin%20Weekend/DonWroesCabinPart2011.jpg)

Paul & Rich making sure we were properly stocked for the weekend.   :laugh:
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:31:22 am
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Georgia%20Trip/Georgiatrip001.jpg)


Rich and I on a camping trip, although I don't consider being in a cabin as camping.  LOL    :laugh:
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:32:09 am
(http://i54.photobucket.com/albums/g116/CellarDweller115/Georgia%20Trip/Georgiatrip009.jpg)


Rich in my cowboy hat.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Meryl on August 19, 2010, 11:36:42 am
Just thought I'd mention that I was watching a movie channel featuring Gordon Macrae movies the other night and kept being brought up short because he reminded me so much of Rich.  Both were the handsomest cowboys around!  8)

(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Catchall/GordonMacrae2.jpg)(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Catchall/GordonMacrae.jpg)(http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h269/merylmarie/Catchall/GordonMacrae3.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:42:09 am
Hiya Meryl!

I'm sure you remember this pic!




(http://i199.photobucket.com/albums/aa298/dejavu91/Feb09052group.jpg)

He was so happy to get the chance to meet all the members who came to the NYC meeting when he and Matthew were in town.


I found his quote on it....



Wow!
It was an INCRDIBLE evening!!!
I had a blast. Getting to meet my friends face to face...well, words fail me.
It was like old home day. Only bad thing was not enough time. For some reason it seems like someone hit the fast forward button and the night was over before i knew what happened!
When I get home I'll post my pics and hopefully I will be able to give a better account!
I just want to thank everyone who was there! It was such a great time. Brokies are the best people in the world. I felt like I was at a family reunion. 'cept there was no fighting LOL  :laugh:
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:44:45 am
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/Friday%2013th%20gathering%20NYC/Holiday2008003.jpg)

LoneLeeB3 (Rich) and Karen1129 (Karen)


Karen, he always had a special spot for you in his heart, don't ever forget it.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Lynne on August 19, 2010, 11:44:52 am
What a great weekend that was!  Thank you for finding that picture, Chuck.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:48:42 am



(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=31516.0;attach=23854;image)

One of the big events that Rich was excited about was the opportunity to meet Matthew, his "twin" from New Zealand.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:51:41 am
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/georgia%20pic/Copyofgeorgiatrip09007.jpg)


Me with Rich and Gene on one of the attempts Rich took to get me to "ride big animals" (as I said in my speech as his memorial).

I believe Rich was the Brokie who I have visited the most.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 11:52:31 am
Stepping away for a bit, I'll let some others post some memories now.....but I'll be back to post more.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Kelda on August 19, 2010, 01:36:36 pm
Great memories Chuck...  :'( :D
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 19, 2010, 02:22:08 pm

(http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=7780.0;attach=25314;image)


Rich and Eric (SFEricSf).  He was the first Brokie that Rich met, if I remember correctly.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 19, 2010, 02:47:40 pm
Chuck I wonder why this thread is coming up under the original title?

Thanks for posting the picture, I will add it to the others I have collected.

Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bailey1205 on August 19, 2010, 04:56:10 pm
(http://i327.photobucket.com/albums/k463/dcfmod/Friday%2013th%20gathering%20NYC/Holiday2008003.jpg)

LoneLeeB3 (Rich) and Karen1129 (Karen)


Karen, he always had a special spot for you in his heart, don't ever forget it.

 :'( :'(

Me, you, Rich and Matt had such a good time in Chinatown that next day.
It was a hoot.

I negoiated hard for a good price on that bottle of cologne Richard wanted for Gene, then,
coming up the subway steps, he tripped, and thought he broke the bottle.   :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Only he could trip 'up' the steps.

Lots of laughs that day.



Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 19, 2010, 08:49:21 pm
I have a few to post: 

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/rich/richpaularmwrestling.jpg)

In Truman Country, we had a lovely lunch, and a arm-wrestle over who would get the last of the chess pie.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 19, 2010, 08:50:55 pm
I have no idea what we were laughing about here:

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/rich/richpaulkitchen.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 19, 2010, 08:55:08 pm
Rich setting up the fire.  This is very off-color, but, when interrupted, he said, "Who's f***ing this cow, anyway?"  I never laughed so hard....


(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/rich/richfiredonwroe.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 19, 2010, 08:57:05 pm
Truman's brothers, in front of his house.

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/rich/richchuckpaul.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 19, 2010, 08:58:10 pm
A long shot of the brothers.

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/rich/richandbrothers4.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: bizzysmom on August 19, 2010, 09:01:11 pm
I love this idea!!!  Richard has given me a lot of pictures over the past 2 years but they have been of Elizabeth since he has been behind the camera.  These are pictures I can save for Elizabeth -

I will go through pictures and put some up.  Now that school has started, there isn't much quiet time at night.  By the time Elizabeth goes to bed, I'm doing laundry and going to bed right behind her.  Once we get settled more in our routine, I will be able to get the pictures up for everyone to enjoy.  

I want to thank you all (or as us southerners say..ya'll) for being so nice and supportive.  

Bizzys Mom :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 19, 2010, 09:02:03 pm
All four brothers:

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/rich/richandbrothers3.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 19, 2010, 09:03:03 pm
Just before the farewell:

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/rich/richandbrothers2.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 19, 2010, 09:04:10 pm
One more:

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/rich/richandbrothers.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 19, 2010, 09:06:19 pm
I love this idea!!!  Richard has given me a lot of pictures over the past 2 years but they have been of Elizabeth since he has been behind the camera.  These are pictures I can save for Elizabeth -

I will go through pictures and put some up.  Now that school has started, there isn't much quiet time at night.  By the time Elizabeth goes to bed, I'm doing laundry and going to bed right behind her.  Once we get settled more in our routine, I will be able to get the pictures up for everyone to enjoy.  

I want to thank you all (or as us southerners say..ya'll) for being so nice and supportive.  

Bizzys Mom :)


Hey, Marcia,

Everyone who knew Rich fell in love with him.  

Here are a few photos of Bizz's many, loving uncles.  

Cheers,
Paul
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 19, 2010, 09:17:24 pm
He was so full of life, even at an early age:

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/rich/richlittleboy.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 19, 2010, 09:19:26 pm
I'll never forget you, Brother.

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/don%20wroe%202/donwroe2richpaul-1.jpg)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 19, 2010, 10:15:58 pm
A long shot of the brothers.

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/rich/richandbrothers4.jpg)

Awesome!!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 20, 2010, 06:21:46 am
Very cool additions!

;D

Thanks BBP!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 20, 2010, 08:21:38 am
Chuck I wonder why this thread is coming up under the original title?

Hiya Tru!

It came up because to bump up the pic of Eric and Rich, I quoted an earlier post that had the original title.

I went back and modifed my post.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Shakesthecoffecan on August 20, 2010, 09:55:34 am
Hiya Tru!

It came up because to bump up the pic of Eric and Rich, I quoted an earlier post that had the original title.

I went back and modifed my post.

Oh okay. I knew there was an explanation.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dontwanttosayGB on August 21, 2010, 12:14:46 pm
All four brothers:

(http://i136.photobucket.com/albums/q186/southendmd/rich/richandbrothers3.jpg)

And properly arranged I see...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: dontwanttosayGB on August 21, 2010, 12:17:49 pm
Oh okay. I knew there was an explanation.

Truman, there is always an explanation...you know that...  :P

Great pictures and memories, thank you for sharing...
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Ellemeno on August 21, 2010, 01:59:20 pm
These are great.

Meryl, I love the Gordon MacRae comparison.  I can see it in the pictures.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Mandy21 on August 21, 2010, 07:15:00 pm
Read a beautiful poem today, reminded me of our beloved Rich:

I will not die an unlived life.
I will not live in fear
of falling or catching fire.
I choose to inhabit my days,
to allow my living to open me,
to make me less afraid,
more accessible,
to loosen my heart
until it becomes a wing,
a torch, a promise.
I choose to risk my significance;
to live so that which came to me as seed
goes to the next as blossom
and that which came to me as blossom,
goes on as fruit.


     "Fully Alive"
      Dawna Markova
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: Front-Ranger on August 21, 2010, 07:27:30 pm
Yes, Mandy, that fits Rich to a Tee!!

Today I thought of Rich looking down on me living my life and blessing me with a positive thought and a "You go, girl!" like he did in life.  :)
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 passes away.
Post by: southendmd on August 24, 2010, 07:39:17 pm
I've started a new thread, meant for expressions of love for our friend Rich.  We'll leave this thread for grieving, and use the new one for celebration, reflection, and other thoughts.

Please feel free to post photos, songs, lyrics, youtubes, thoughts about Rich. 

Here's the link:  http://bettermost.net/forum/index.php/topic,46189.msg584166.html#msg584166
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: Kelda on August 25, 2010, 05:41:21 pm
Facebook is telling me to say hello to Rich as we haven't been in contact for a while... 

:'(  :'(  :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 25, 2010, 06:13:34 pm
Yeah, I've been getting that too Kelda.

 :-\
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on August 25, 2010, 07:27:06 pm

Yeah, me too.   :(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: Lynne on August 25, 2010, 08:53:14 pm
Yes, me too. Also there is still that blasted Linked In reminder.

Maybe it's good though?  A reminder to remember him will be better as time passes.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: Penthesilea on August 26, 2010, 01:16:27 am
Yes, Rich comes up on FB for me, too. Makes me sad every time.
 :'(
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: CellarDweller on August 26, 2010, 08:00:38 am
Good morning BetterMostians!

I spoke with Gene last night and he asked me to send a message to you all.

He is very thankful for the messages of support and love you have all sent him either through here or FaceBook.  It means very much to him that you are taking the time to talk to him and offer support.

He regrets that he hasn't given what he feels is a proper response to you all, but he still has so much to have to do, and with the school year started already for his sons, he's got his hands full with helping them as well as tending to the horses and everything else that is calling for his attention.

Please keep sending him the messages and "hellos" and such, and please know that Gene appreicates them very much!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: jstephens9 on August 26, 2010, 04:01:53 pm
Yes, Rich comes up on FB for me, too. Makes me sad every time.
 :'(

I get that on FB too. Exactly one week from his service during the exact same time I logged on to FB and it told me to send Richard Wilson a message. I felt like I should so I did. I know or maybe I know that he will never be able to read it, but I had to send one anyway. I don't know what happens when we leave this world so who am I to say that he did not read it. Then it came up last Sunday too. I actually told Gene about it when I talked to him on the phone this past Monday night. He said it did it to him too and he wish he knew how to make it not do that. He said he wish he knew how to send him a message. I'm sure it is extremely upsetting to him. But just like I still have his phone number on my phone and his email and address in my contacts, I will keep him as a Friend on Facebook too!!!
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: Lynne on September 04, 2010, 07:18:55 pm
The programs went out in today's mail.

 :'(

I apologize for the procrastinating.  I got a bit emotional - I put a personal note into each package, so please excuse any over-the-top sentimentality.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: RouxB on November 03, 2010, 12:42:26 am
Hey bud, I'm thinking about you today

 :-*
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: SFEnnisSF on July 08, 2011, 09:25:16 pm
I am visiting a friend in Portland and on his bookshelf was my hardback copy of Brokeback Mountain that I had lent him to read over 3 years ago.  I had forgotten I had lent it to him.  Inside the book I just found a note with one of Richard's first posts here on Bettermost.  He is talking about the predicament he is in and the major fears he has and just starting his process after seeing the movie.   I am crying right now.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: CellarDweller on July 08, 2011, 10:11:36 pm
(((((Eric)))))

Wish I could give ya the hug in real life.
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: David In Indy on July 08, 2011, 11:13:24 pm
I am visiting a friend in Portland and on his bookshelf was my hardback copy of Brokeback Mountain that I had lent him to read over 3 years ago.  I had forgotten I had lent it to him.  Inside the book I just found a note with one of Richard's first posts here on Bettermost.  He is talking about the predicament he is in and the major fears he has and just starting his process after seeing the movie.   I am crying right now.

God, I remember him talking about that!

I still miss him! I miss the cards in the mail and all his encouraging PMs. He always knew when to send one and he knew just what to say.

"Only the good die young". I wish it didn't work that way though, but sometimes there seems to be some truth to that particular phrase. You know?
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: Luvlylittlewing on July 09, 2011, 12:36:55 am
I am visiting a friend in Portland and on his bookshelf was my hardback copy of Brokeback Mountain that I had lent him to read over 3 years ago.  I had forgotten I had lent it to him.  Inside the book I just found a note with one of Richard's first posts here on Bettermost.  He is talking about the predicament he is in and the major fears he has and just starting his process after seeing the movie.   I am crying right now.

((((((Eric))))))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: Kelda on July 09, 2011, 09:23:22 am
(((eric)))
Title: Re: BetterMost member LoneLeeB3 has passed away. Our grieving thread.
Post by: Sason on July 09, 2011, 09:26:35 am
What an unexpected and emotional find, ((( Eric )))