Rich was a vey close friend and colleague. We worked together for eight years in International Tax, sharing the same office. He was always in by 8:15, with his muffin and cup of coffee. We shared many breakfasts and lunches together, and sometimes dinner when we worked late. We always talked about our families, weekends and vacations. We shared many stories. Rich adored his daughter, Christina and his wife Christy. They were his world! He always looked forward to being with them or going on one of their exciting vacations. In the eight years together we grew to be good friends. We knew eachothers likes and dislikes. Even when we had our kids, we shared that experience. I had my son in January and he and his wife had their daughter in November. Christina was his pride and joy. I remember when he called in to let us know he had a baby girl. I remember his first day back. He was truly a happy and proud dad. He loved being a dad. After eight years, we went to different jobs. Wherever we were, we always kept in touch. We wouldn't hear from each other for a couple of months, because we'd be busy with our tax seasons, but once it was over, we'd call to catch up on eachothers families. Wherever we were, we'd try to meet for lunch. It was always difficult to meet for lunch, when I was downtown he was working midtown, when I was working midtown, he was downtown. Even though planning lunch was difficult since he was downtown, he still came uptown to visit and to have lunch with me. I wanted to show him my new place. He was really happy for me. We had a fun lunch. He talked about his vacation to Alaska and how much fun he had with his family. That was the last time I saw Rich. I am so glad that we had lunch that day. I will always remember that day!
I will miss his phone calls! I will miss Rich very much! I wish his family peace and love.
N.W.
