Dear Donna and family, Rich's love and caring has touched the lives of so many people around the globe. His presence will be with all of us, and always accompanied by his huge smile. Mecah and I will cherish the times we had together with all of you and the special times we were able to share with Rich. His larger than life memories will forever be with everyone. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you, as Rich watches over you always.

May all the wonderful memories comfort you during this difficult time.

(A Soldier Died Today) by A. Lawrence Vaincourt He was getting old and paunchy and his hair was falling fast, And he sat around the Legion, telling stories of the past. Of a war that he had fought in and the deeds that he had done, In his exploits with his buddies; they were heroes, every one. And tho' sometimes, to his neighbors, his tales became a joke, All his Legion buddies listened, for they knew whereof he spoke. But we'll hear his tales no longer for old Bill has passed away, And the world's a little poorer, for a soldier died today. He will not be mourned by many, just his children and his wife, For he lived an ordinary and quite uneventful life. Held a job and raised a family, quietly going his own way, And the world won't note his passing, though a soldier died today. When politicians leave this earth, their bodies lie in state, While thousands note their passing and proclaim that they were great. Papers tell their whole life stories, from the time that they were young, But the passing of a soldier goes unnoticed and unsung. Is the greatest contribution to the welfare of our land A guy who breaks his promises and cons his fellow man? Or the ordinary fellow who, in times of war and strife, Goes off to serve his Country and offers up his life? A politician's stipend and the style in which he lives Are sometimes disproportionate to the service that he gives. While the ordinary soldier, who offered up his all, Is paid off with a medal and perhaps, a pension small. It's so easy to forget them for it was so long ago, That the old Bills of our Country went to battle, but we know It was not the politicians, with their compromise and ploys, Who won for us the freedom that our Country now enjoys. Should you find yourself in danger, with your enemies at hand, Would you want a politician with his ever-shifting stand? Or would you prefer a soldier, who has sworn to defend His home, his kin and Country and would fight until the end? He was just a common soldier and his ranks are growing thin, But his presence should remind us we may need his like again. For when countries are in conflict, then we find the soldier's part Is to clean up all the troubles that the politicians start. If we cannot do him honor while he's here to hear the praise, Then at least let's give him homage at the ending of his days. Perhaps just a simple headline in a paper that would say, Our Country is in mourning, for a soldier died today. © 1987 A. Lawrence Vaincourt

Dearest Kim and Family, Love is what he gave you, that never changes. I hope you find comfort is remembering all that you shared with him. Please know John and I are thinking of you at this time. With much love, Chris & John

To Donna and all family members, So sorry to hear about Rich passing. It was a very exciting day for me when my telephone rang and Rich asked me when I could start working as his secretary at the Charlotte County Veterans Services ... !!!! We worked a couple of years together before he retired. Rich, you will be missed.

My heart felt condolences to Donna and family. As you well know Rich and I became good friends during all of visits to the clinic. He was a genuine and kind man who we will miss greatly.

Rest in Peace My Friend. You will be missed by many. Condolences to Donna, & all the Family.

Kim and Family, I remember your parents from high school such nice people. I am so sorry for your loss I hope you can find comfort in the many wonderful memories you have of him. Sending prayers for you and your family. God Bless!!! Jennifer Donovan

Rich was more like a brother, rather than a brother-in-law. Rich has been in my life as long as my dear sisters, and he will be missed very much. God bless you SMSgt. Richard Owens, may god bring you into his arms and say Good Job.

I only met Rich a time or two but his wife Donna's Mother, Peggy Mackel and my Mother, Lessie Barber were best friends for years. Rest In Peace Rich and I know you will be looking over Donna as you always did.

John, Lauren and I send our heartfelt condolences to Donna and family at this very sad time. Love Angela

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.