Richard James Whitaker

My sincere sympathy to Rick's family on his passing. Although I didn't know him well in high school, I did know he was a gentle and caring soul. It was apparent then he was destined to do great things for mankind.

I have many fond memories of Rick in High School, through college when he was back in Oneonta hanging out together, and during the mid 1970's while attending Grad School in Oneonta, NY. In particular, I remember one night, when Rick was still living in Maine; it was 2 or 3 AM, a pounding on the door and there was Rick with his three Golden Retrievers and a sasck of lobsters, he had just arrived in Oneonta and was determined that we were going to have lobsters for breakfast. What a breakfast it was. He will be missed.

Adelaide - You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. We have fond memories of the holiday meals you and Rick shared with us. We so looked forward to his weekly columns - thought-proking, intelligent and well-written, embracing the pursuit of greater understanding. We will always appreciate the larger-world perspective he brought to our community. Jim & Lynne

My husband Dick Gay and I send Adelaide and family our condolences upon hearing about the loss of husband Rick, to whom I was previously married from 1969-1975. Rick and I remained in periodic contact over the ensuing decades though we went in different directions
As a point of interest we served in VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) in Columbia, South Carolina in the early 1970's. VISTA is now part of AmeriCorp.We met in Oneonta and then lived in Albany NY where I finished college and he went to Albany Law School. One of the anti-poverty Legal Aide Societies he worked at was Pine Tree Legal Services in Bangor Maine. He became an advocate for the disabled and impoverished populations . in Vermont, SC and ME. We are truly sorry for your immeasurable loss. He will be irreplaceable. for sure.
Andrea (Drea) and C. Richard (Dick) Gay.

Our heartfelt prayers go out to Richard's family. He will always be remembered as a star athlete and our H.S. Valedictorian. We were all in awe of his knowledge and athletic abilities. He had such a wonderful smile! Class of 1963 will always remember him.

I remember Rick as a very fun, easy going, and friendly classmate. We were hoping to see him at our 50th reunion in October. Sorry to hear of his death. I haven't seen him in 50 years but I,m sure he was a good family, and community man.

Mrs. Adelaide and family,

Sorry to hear about your loss. My deepest sympathy goes to you and your family. May God be with you and your family. We missed you Rick. I know you are smilling and laughing and you are in a better place.

Love and Prayers,
Nuong Tran

Ms. Adelaide,

I've only known Richard for three years while being here at the Library. He was always a fun, loving, humorous person. Whenever, he'd say hello Barbara, I'd say how are you today. He would say "Just Dandy" or "Just Peachy", then he'd do this thing with his arms in the air. Lol! I'd say get it now, then he'd act as though he was playing a guitar.

It has been a pleasure to know him. He'll be greatly missed, we'd always share the Reference Desk together on Thursday. It'll only be me at the Reference Desk along. He studied at everything he did for the Library. What a smart intelligent man?
God bless the family.

Ms. Adelaide,

I've only known Richard for three years while being here at the Library. He was always a fun, loving, humorous person. Whenever, he'd say hello Barbara, I'd say how are you today. He would say "Just Dandy" or "Just Peachy", then he'd do this thing with his arms in the air. Lol! I'd say get it now, then he'd act as though he was playing a guitar.

It has been a pleasure to know him. He'll be greatly missed, we'd always share the Reference Desk together on Thursday. It'll only be me at the Reference Desk along. He studied at everything he did for the Library. What a smart intelligent man?
God bless the family.

I'm saddened to hear of Rick's death. Another of my life long friends from Bugbee and four years at OHS. Valedictorian of the Class of 1963, an athlete and best of all a really nice guy. Rick was always destined for great things. Will miss you my friend. My sympathy goes out to his wife Adelaide, his children and grandchildren.

Sue Lockridge Sheets

Rick was one of my oldest and dearest friends. We have been pals since 4th grade. He was always so thoughtful and in touch with the world. I'm so glad he could share such happy times with you and his many friends in Texas. We will miss him very much.

Rick and I grew up in the same neighborhood in Oneonta. He was an amazing scholar, Valedictorian of our high school graduating class, and fine athlete. We just celebrated our 50th class reunion and when we "townies" next gather for lunch, we will remember Rick and send to all his family warmest wishes and profound sympathy.

Peggy (Nordberg) Serra-Lima

Adelaide,

I've worked with Rick ever since you both came out here to Texas. He was always excellent to work along side of and such a pleasure to be around. He will be missed and our prayers go out for you and the family.

Mark Durham

Adeline,

My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. May God give you the comfort and peace that you seek and may the soul of your loved one rest in peace.

Mrs. McGill,

No one can prepare you for a loss; it comes like a swift wind. But take comfort in knowing that he is now resting in the arms of our Lord. My deepest condolences to you and your family.

Mrs. Adelaide:

Sharing your sorrow in the loss of one so dear, and sending deepest sympathy to you and the family.

Love and Prayers always,
Wanda M. Thompson

"God is our shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble."
-Psalm 46:1

It was great working with you Rick. You will be missed.

Joshua Midgette

You were one of the best people I have ever worked with. You will be greatly missed!

Dear Lady,
I am sending my heartfelt sympathy to you, Megan, and Mac. May God surround you with His love, and keep you safe.
I will be with you in spirit on the 7th.