My new freind and someone that I had hoped to know better in the future suffered a stroke this morning and died on the way to the hospital.
I will forever be impacted by the way this person has effected my life and how he patted me on the back with his words of wisdom and kinship.
Rick, I will miss you and hope to fill your shoes in some small way with the same fervor and desire that you showed me!
A TRUE LETTERHEAD!
PLEASE DO NOT CALL LOLA!..PLEASE...SHE ASKS FOR NO CALLS AT THIS TIME....PLEASE RESPECT THAT!
Posted by Dan Sawatzky (Member # 88) on :
I had the pleasure of meeting Rick last year at the Conclave. What a treasure!
My heart goes out to all who know and love him.
See you in heaven my friend.
-dan
Posted by Cam Bortz (Member # 55) on :
Bob Rochon just called with this shattering news... I'm stunned, almost speechless. This is a terrible day.
Posted by Kimberly Zanetti (Member # 2546) on :
I can't keep the tears out of my eyes long enough to write more than this so I'll just say... Sleep well my friend.
Posted by Raymond Chapman (Member # 361) on :
So many of us have wondered what Rick would do when Lola went home, and now she has to deal with his passing. There are no words to express the loss right now.
Posted by cheryl nordby (Member # 1100) on :
I feel so sad too. I was lucky to meet Rick. What a loss. We will miss you Rick.
Posted by Kathy Joiner (Member # 1814) on :
Ms. Lola is such a kind and helpful person. Our prayers go out to her at this time.
Posted by Rick Chavez (Member # 2146) on :
This is a huge loss in the signage community, my thoughts to all who loved him, I only wish I knew him more personally, instead of from a distance. The loss of knowledge in one single day from the passing of an individual like Rick, makes it all the more important to keep the craft alive and share and grow together. His contribution will never be forgotten, what a life, we can only hope to accomplish a small portion of what he has done.
With love and deep respect. Rick Chavez
Posted by John Arnott (Member # 215) on :
I'm so sad to hear this. Rick was such a good friend to all of us. He shared so much, He always made everyone feel so welcome in his shop. All of us who have had the privilage of knowing Rick will miss a great person. He was my hero.
Posted by Doug Allan (Member # 2247) on :
So sorry to hear this news. I was shocked because so many of the elder's who have been mentioned on similar threads were just names to my relatively new involvement with the letterheads. Ricks name was just so much more familiar to me from so many references to him, Esoteric sign supply, & the infamous Conclave meets, that I felt sure to follow my new interest in gold leaf to doing business with Rick, & even if never invited to a meet, I felt any trip to California would have been an excuse to see Ricks shop.
Rest in peace brother.
Posted by Bob Rochon (Member # 30) on :
Man I'm so freeking sad by this, one of my worst days has arrived, I always admired Rick for his knowledge and his ability to share, He and his knowledge was so cherrished by me that I feered when this day arrived.
we have lost so much,
But putting aside selfish feelings, I pray to God that he comfort and keep Lola strong through this, as well as freinds and family members. And if they have a letterhead meet everytime a letterhead dies then man those streets paved with gold will be looking the best they can
Posted by Jay Allen (Member # 195) on :
Boy, is God going to find out everything there is to know about Gold Leaf!! Those pearly gates must have been looking a little faded for them to call up the expert.
I never spent less than an hour on the phone with Rick whenever I would call him. Never did I think I would lose the chance to speak with him any time I wanted. We really lost a treasure in this industry. For those who didn't know of Rick, go start digging to find out more about a true craftsman. He was the epitome of the Letterhead movement - and you need to know why.
Posted by Amy Brown (Member # 1963) on :
I just talked to Rick Friday. He was helping me figure out how much gold I would need for a job I am bidding on and explained a lot of things to me. Unbelievable. Always been more than helpful when calling. He'll be dearly missed.
Posted by Chuck Peterson (Member # 70) on :
Rick Glawson was one of the kindest people I have ever met.
Posted by Si Allen (Member # 420) on :
WHAT A TERRIBLE LOSS! Hard to believe! We were there less than a week ago! Rick was his usual self, and was telling us about planss to fix up some new things at the shop!
It has to be a geat loss to Loa ....and an even greater loss to the world!
Rest in Peace, Rick....but you will be missed by all of us!
Posted by Kimberly Zanetti (Member # 2546) on :
February 9, 2003
[ July 06, 2009, 09:18 AM: Message edited by: Barb. Shortreed ]
Posted by Mike Languein (Member # 319) on :
We lost one of the best today.
Posted by Ron Percell (Member # 399) on :
I'm at a loss of words, so, so sad.
I've lost a great friend.
Posted by Mark Fair Signs (Member # 289) on :
I never had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Rick Glawson. Rick Glawson is one of those sign artist that you feel you know by being exposed to his wonderful work in trade magazines.
My deepest condolences to his family.
Posted by Wayne Webb (Member # 1124) on :
A few months ago, I spoke with Rick for probably an hour or more. He was genuninely interested in helping me and his knowledge of gold leaf was astounding. I am saddened to hear this. He was a very nice man and will be greatly missed.
Posted by Bill Masters (Member # 851) on :
This is a very sad day for me,I just spoke to Rick on Friday.I called to place an order for some chipping supplies and to ask him a technical question, as always he had the answer and so much more,it was always a pleasure to talk to Rick, I learned so much from him.I am so greatful to have met Rick Glawson so many years ago.I will miss him he was the best.
Posted by Tony Segale (Member # 1380) on :
just received the sad news via telephone....
a true golden treasure, Danine and I will miss you more than words can say, Rick...
all our love...
Posted by Steve Shortreed (Member # 436) on :
I can't believe what I am reading. We just stepped out of the room for a couple hours! This is terrible news.
Rick Glawson is the best example of a Letterhead that I have ever met. He's also one of the finest human beings I've ever had the honour of knowing. Our hearts and prayers are with all of the countless souls this man's life touched. He'll live on in our hearts and minds forever.
Posted by Paul Jordan (Member # 1198) on :
A sad day. My prayers go out to Lola. Rick will be missed. He was always a pleasure to talk to. I will always remember the day that Dad and I spent at Ricks shop, he was a man of great abilities and he was willing to share his knowledge with us. I feel privileged to have meet him. Via con Dios Rick Glawson.
Posted by Janette Balogh (Member # 192) on :
We will miss you Daddy Finegold.
You will be remembered for all you were to each and every one of us.
And all you have been for our trade.
Nettie
Posted by John Jordan (Member # 2368) on :
I had the pleasure of meeting Rick and Lola quite a few years ago, and even though I live quite a few thousand kilometers away we formed a good relationship. Occasionaly we would meet at various Letterhead Meets and just sit down and compare notes. I will indeed miss him, my heartfelt sympathies go out to Lola and his family.
On behalf of all the Australian Letterheads I would like to convey our sincerest condolences and sympathies to a great tradesman and friend, he will be sadly missed
Posted by Joey Madden (Member # 1192) on :
My God, I almost cannot believe what I'm reading, I am so saddened by this news.
Posted by Kent Smith (Member # 251) on :
We have lost our best friend and dear Lola has lost so much more.
Posted by utter (Member # 634) on :
I never had the pleasure of meeting Rick, but nonetheless, from the sounds of the replies here, I wish I would have. My heart goes out to those of you who were his friend, and to his family.
Posted by Ron Percell (Member # 399) on :
Posted by Bob Darnell (Member # 27) on :
That's terrible news. I've never met Rick either, but it's always been clear that his name is synonymous with "Letterhead". My condolences.
Posted by Kissymatina (Member # 2028) on :
Oh no.
I've spoke with Rick a few times and each time I have learned so much from him. Even having never met him, I know we as a craft have lost a great deal today.
The first time I called him, I was wanting to try the crackle effect and couldn't find what I needed. I was referred to Esotric and gave Rick a call. After talking me through everything for probably 1/2 hour, he says "I'll put an instruction sheet in the box and if you have any problems or questions, you have my number". I hung up from that call with so much knowledge, confidence and appreciation. The more I type this, the more I ask myself "how much have we lost?"
I've always considered Esoteric one of those places I wanted to loose a couple days at if I ever get that direction. Just to pick Rick's brain and wander around checking out all the neat stuff. Just yesterday, I was talking about trying some smalting and had planned on calling Rick today, but got caught up and didn't get the chance. Now, I will never get that chance.
We have lost so much today and we will feel the ripple effect for years to come.
My heart goes out to his family and those who had the privelege of knowing him.
Posted by FranCisco Vargas (Member # 145) on :
I too was very sadden when I received the news from my good buddy Ron Percell, I was in a meeting with some clients, very sad, very very sad news it was, He was a true gold master and a Dynamite great guy as a person! He will be truly missed...
Posted by Tom & Kathy Durham (Member # 3680) on :
I doubt we could put in any better more true words than all of you have expressed. He was truly an inspiration for all of us, we will always miss him and his fine craftsmanship and talents. You will live on in our hearts through your work, Rick. Thanks for all the great lessons! Blessings to Lola... TomKat
Posted by Bill Dirkes (Member # 1000) on :
Such a Gentleman! Lola, my heart goes out to you. and to all of us who are better people for having met, however briefly, such a man as Rick. May he rest in peace.
Posted by Robin Sharrard (Member # 388) on :
A deep sadness has entered my heart as Ron Percell called me with this grim news. Both Rick and Lola have helped me so much over the past few years. Every time I went to the Conclave Rick would always find time to help me with a project or a technique. Rick will always be remembered in this family and heaven has gained one heck of a guy. Our hearts and prayers go out to Lola... Robin & Melinda
Posted by Rick Sacks (Member # 379) on :
Musta been those habaneros? Rick was a fine friend and embraced his faith with Jesus as his Lord. He'll be in a place that he longed to go to, perhaps not this soon though. My tears now are for Lola, who is as decent and caring a human as I've ever met. Many lives have been enriched by Rick, some with sign knowledge, some with more.His contribution to our craft is enormous! I sure wish I had an autographed copy of his book, but he has not written it yet. How many of you have ever held the manuscript of the Gospel of Matthew that he penned with such brilliant illumination and glistening gold on each page of the parchment? That was his first lettering job I believe. Farewell Frederick Glawson.
[ July 06, 2009, 09:16 AM: Message edited by: Barb. Shortreed ]
Posted by Jean Shimp (Member # 198) on :
I've heard so much about Rick in the past years and all of it has been good. He was a true "Master". I took it for granted that he would be around for a long time. I would have loved to meet him and seen his work in person. I hope that his life will be an inspiration to the rest of us to continue the Letterhead spirit by sharing our knowledge and working hard to produce beautiful work.
Posted by Santo (Member # 411) on :
Sad news indeed. I never had any contact with Rick, but stood in awe of every glimpse of his life.
Posted by Dan Sawatzky (Member # 88) on :
Today has been a hard one for me... such sad news. But it is also a day of celebration for the life of Rick Glawson.
Rick kindly invited me to attend a Conclave last year, through another friend Rick Sacks. Or perhaps it was the other way around. I couldn't attend this year and was truely disapointed when my invitation arrived. But I was looking forward to next year.......
I went to last year's meet with great anticipation... but when I arrived there I was so much out of my element. I mean I was with the masters of gold and the techniques they had spent many years perfecting. In this field I am a rank amature. A quick peek in the window made me realize how much I had to learn.
But I was welcomed there with open arms. Rick & Lola kindly answered my many questions. Rick, although busy with a hundred other folks took the time to look over my shoulder from time to time as I worked on my little gold project. He gently gave me some hints and suggestions, and quietly observed my unusual way of doing things.
I got to chat with him a bit through the meet, and had the pleasure of sitting beside Lola at a leasurely dinner at that fabulous sushi bar that was one of Rick's favorites. She is such a delight! She bent my ear at length with many tales of her life and involvement with Rick. She told me of how her & her husband had taken him in. The few words spoken on that subject gave me a glimpse of how much that event had changed his life.
And while there I saw the manuscript of which Rick Sacks speaks. Instantly, I understood so much more of this kind, gentle man.
I admired his huge passion for his work and those he shared his life with.
He lived what he believed and enjoyed his days here. He provided a wonderful example to all he met. Especially me.
-dan
[ March 10, 2003, 11:17 PM: Message edited by: Dan Sawatzky ]
Posted by Charles Reed (Member # 3367) on :
A VERY SAD DAY INDEED FOR ALL OF US IN THE SIGN TRADE. HE HAS INFLUENCED MY WORK AS WELL AS COUNTLESS OTHERS. HIS KNOWLEDGE WAS UNSURPASSED. I BELIEVE IN THE GIFT OF KNOWLEDGE, RICK HAS CERTAINLY GIVEN ME A GIFT.
PEACE BE WITH YOU.
PRAY FOR LOLA.
CHUCK REED CRSIGNS HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA.
Posted by John Deaton III (Member # 925) on :
All the responses here are surely testament to the person he was. I never got to meet Rick, but have heard so much on this board about him. Truly this giant among signpeople will be missed. God bless him and his family and friends.
Posted by David Harding (Member # 108) on :
It has been said: “When an old man dies, a library burns”. I do not know how old Rick was, but we lost an irreplaceable library.
I am stunned. I always enjoyed his company at Letterheads meets, he seemed to have limitless time to talk and share his inexhaustible knowledge. I cannot count how many times I have bent Rick’s ear for Gold advice over the phone. I would call him up and he would ask “Got another glass Gold job, Dave?”
I used some of his Gold on Friday, to gild the name “Jehovah” on a Kingdom Hall sign. I have some glass Gold jobs coming up. I will sure be remembering my friend Rick when doing them and silently dreading not having his fount of knowledge available for some of the more ”esoteric” parts of these signs.
My thoughts and prayers are with Lola. I will give her a few days to collect herself and then call her.
Posted by goddinfla (Member # 1502) on :
I met Rick and Lola years back at a Skeeter Roundup. It was truly seeing one of the Sign Hall of Famers in person. Spent many an hour admiring his work in the magazines. Sad news indeed.
Posted by Bob Bond (Member # 26) on :
I, like Steve just cannot believe we are reading this. We are stunned by this news and very saddened and without words at this time. Our hearts and prayers are with Lola. May peacefulness surround her and may all of our prayers give her the strength she needs at this time.
Our Industry has truly lost a Master.
Posted by Surfside Signs (Member # 3700) on :
Gary and I feel so privileged to have been able to spend time at the Conclaves, getting to know not only Rick and Lola but also all of the wonderful, creative people which they attracted. February is going to be a very bleak, lonely month from now on. Rick, thank you for everything you gave.
Posted by Glenn Taylor (Member # 162) on :
Rick was too young. It just goes to prove that we need to treat each day as something special.
Rick's kindness and willingness to share will be greatly missed.
I remember the first time I got to talk to him over the phone. I was ordering some supplies and asked him a how-to question. I couldn't believe how much time he was willing to spend sharing some of his knowledge.
There aren't enough
Posted by Mark Fair Signs (Member # 289) on :
i did a search for "Rick Glawson" on google.com and this was the first listing by a fellow signguy don coplen, obviously rick was impressed by don's work, this guy was a true letterhead.
I am so sadden to hear of Rick Glawson’s passing. We sign people are blessed to have a God given talent but Rick was more blessed to touch the lives of so many with his encouragement and generosity. With today’s lifestyle Rick always went the extra mile to spend time to help anyone who sought his advice. He was the greatest example of a Letterhead. My prayers will be with Miss Lola.
Posted by Robert Beverly (Member # 1907) on :
Ron Purcell was kind enough to post this pic of a previous event that ironically placed another recent loss in the same photo, Ein Quigley. What a shame to loose such talent that few can come close to having.
[ March 11, 2003, 12:32 AM: Message edited by: Robert Beverly ]
Posted by Jackson Smart (Member # 187) on :
I too am Bummed. Rick has given me several tips about gold over the years. I will miss him greatly.
Sadly, it was his time to go...it is never the right time...but it was his.
"Shine your light brightly Rick....we miss you!"
Posted by Mike Languein (Member # 319) on :
Just another blurb about Rick G.
I took a friend of mine there a couple months ago to show off Rick's place - I'd been sort of bragging - Rick opened his door wide and said "You know where everything is -- give him the tour..."
Generous man. And trusting.
Posted by Deb Fowler (Member # 1039) on :
I was just notified by a friend about Rick.
SO SAD, WE WILL MISS A FINE HUMAN BEING AND MASTER. ALTHOUGH I NEVER MET HIM, HE HAS BEEN ON MY MIND AS A FAVORITE OF MANY, OFFERING SOMETHING SO INTERESTING TO ALL, JUST A STEP ABOVE THE REST IN HIS FIELD, AS WE CAN BE VERY THANKFUL OF THE SHARING AND REUNION MEET AT THE CONCLAVE ALLOWING ALL TO GATHER, THIS MAYBE WAS HIS WAY OF SAYING "SEE YOU SOON, I AM JUST CROSSING OVER".
MAYBE A MEETING FOR A REASON, AND TO REMEMBER THIS DEAR BROTHER AS ONE WITH A HEART OF GOLD THAT THE DEAR LORD IS HOLDING RICK IN HIS MIGHTY, OMNIPOTENT, LOVING ARMS AT THIS VERY MOMENT. EOIN QUIGLY IS PROBABLY RIGHT NEXT TO RICK, BROTHER TO BROTHER, HEART TO HEART, A COMMON THREAD, LIVES forever INTWINED WITH EACH OTHERS AND OURS.
GOD BLESS YOU LOLA FOR GIVING RICK THE LOVE AND SUPPORT THROUGH THE YEARS, PLEASE SURROUND YOURSELF WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS, AS HOPING YOU ARE LOOKED IN UPON. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF AS RICK WOULD WANT THAT.
[ March 11, 2003, 01:11 PM: Message edited by: Deb Fowler ]
Posted by Miles Cullinane (Member # 980) on :
This has to be one of the saddest days in letterville, it's already been said that we have lost one of our best.
I spoke to rick 4 or 5 times but learned so much and he was so kind in his giving. i always had the thought of one day getting to the meet that Rick put on.
with Eoin quigley and Rick both leaving us this year We have lost much in this community.
Posted by Neil D. Butler (Member # 661) on :
Not too much more to add, just my condolences and prayers. Tragic Loss indeed.
Posted by Tony Vickio (Member # 2265) on :
I also have never met Rick, but it is clear he was a true "master". My prayers go out to his family. He reminds me of the man who years ago took me under his wing and shared his 60 years of Gold Leaf knowledge with a young, +++++ signpainter. Without sharing, that 60 years all would be gone forever.
Posted by Dan Seese (Member # 3705) on :
I am shocked and saddened by the sudden and unexpected death of someone who has influenced my life, career and artistic expression so significantly as Rick Glawson. I haven't been able to sleep since John Studden phoned me with the news yesterday. The fact that I considered Rick a good friend and that so many others have felt the same is a testament to how large his heart was and how enthusiastically he embraced any of us neophytes who thirsted after a drop of his esoteric knowledge. I find no comfort in sentimental constructs concerning the how and why of this tragedy. Personally, my only comfort in life and in death is that I belong to Christ Jesus, who is faithful. I entrust Rick into the hands of his maker and remember the words of the one who said "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies." Dearest Lola. We enfold you in our thoughts and our prayers. Thank you, Rick, for everything. I miss you.
Posted by bill riedel (Member # 607) on :
What a terrible loss to the letterheads. Could there possibly be anyone with as much knowledge in gold leaf as Rick? Being one of the fortunate to have known him and admire such a brilliant man, I am very saddened. I was lucky to be able to make this last meet and it was almost unbelieveable how this man would take so much time to answer any questions. He would even dig into his private collection of antiques to show the fine work of passed sign artists. We were so fortunate to have had him in the letterheads.
Posted by captain ken (Member # 742) on :
I have never met Rick, but spoke with him many times on the phone, what a true Letterhead, his expertise in so many of the old school traditions was unmatched. I can see that most everyone here feels the loss. Heaven has just gotten brighter.
Posted by kc (Member # 650) on :
Rick helped me out several times over the years. He embodied the Letterhead sharing attitude. History will show him to be one of the strongest pillars of today's signmaking foundation.
Lola - We're with you. We're here for you.
Mark and Wendy Casey
Posted by Mike Lavallee (Member # 320) on :
I only met the man a few times and like all the others here I too was so impressed with the way Rick would be more than willing to help out with any questions, he loved to show you his little treasures. I'll miss him. my heart goes out to Lola. I just know Rick is looking at the pearly gates thinking....." I wonder if thats mother of pearl." mike
Posted by Kevin Ledbetter (Member # 253) on :
As soon as I found out this morning about Rick's passing, I went straight to this message board; I knew what I would find. The entire Letterhead community paying their respect to a great man. I never had the pleasure to meet Rick, but I spoke with him over the phoine many times. He was my 'go to' man when I needed an answer about goldleaf, and I see many others felt the same. Rick is a LEGEND. I would like to express the extreme sadness the people at One Shot feel for the loss of Rick. I believe a part of Rick will always live on in the lives of all those he touched with his knowledge and his art.
Kevin
Posted by Nancy Beaudette (Member # 1983) on :
It is a mournful day. Words hardly seem adequate to express this overwhelming saddness.
Posted by Larry Whan (Member # 908) on :
I can relate to the passing of a friend and it's never something you want to here about. One thing I have learned is that the sun does come up and life does go on. I'm sure Rick would prefer we celabrated his life rather than morn his death. Here's to you Rick, for all you have done and all you will inspire us to do.
Your friend Larry Whan
Posted by John Yarnell (Member # 3709) on :
What a sad sad time for everyone especially sweet Lola. I am very sorry for your loss Lola. Our sign community as a whole has lost one of our greatest treasures. I feel selfish for feeling this way but I was counting on Rick being around for many years to be there when I needed advice on a gold or glass project. I talked to him on many occasions and like every one else has mentioned Rick would spend an hour or as long as it took to explain the smallest details of the project I was working on. As he explained the job he would always add a little history lesson along with it. I loved that part the most. I will never forget what a special person Rick was. I am truly saddened there will be no more hour long talks/history lessons but am truly grateful for all the great ones I had the pleasure to experience.
Thanks you very much Rick. I will think of you often.
[ March 11, 2003, 08:04 PM: Message edited by: John Yarnell ]
Posted by Terry Colley (Member # 1245) on :
A great loss, I spoke with Rick a few times, he was always so helpful you did not make a quick call to Rick .Just wish I could have met the man
Posted by Bernice Tornquist (Member # 16) on :
Yes, this is felt by all of us. I had not met him but when asking him something by e-mail, he answered like he knew you as a friend.
We will miss him.
Posted by Patrick G. Smith (Member # 3707) on :
Adios Rick. Thanks for sharing so much all these years. Here's to Moonstones and Memories. Patrick G. Smith.
[ March 11, 2003, 10:12 PM: Message edited by: Patrick G. Smith ]
Posted by Scott Rowan (Member # 3670) on :
When Russell told me to put down the mirror I was holding and sit down I knew the news wasn`t good. How could I have guessed it would be so bad.
This has been a very difficult day. Everywhere I look I am reminded of Rick. All the tools I use have come from him. All the knowledge I have comes from him.
I will remember Rick`s kindness and sence of humor along with the great times always.
My prayers are with Lola, my you find the strength you need at this time.
Scott Rowan
Posted by Mike Kelly (Member # 2037) on :
I never had the pleasure of meeting Rick, but spoke with him a number of times on the phone and by email. A real Gentleman. Thank you Rick.
Posted by Harry Malicoat (Member # 3720) on :
The loss of Rick Glawson is so much more than the loss of a leader and icon of our industry. To us it is a loss of a family member. Risk was a special man. He took us all into his home (Finegold & Esoteric)and into his life. He was there for all of us, at a moments notice, whether we were friends with whom he had spent countless hours and days, or faceless voices at the other end of a phone. The conclave in Feb. has been the first entry into our new calander each year for the last dozen or so years. I have learned so much from Rick, but even more important has been the emotional recharge I get from his mere presence. He had a zest for life that touched everyone around him. No letterhead meet was quite complete if Rick and Lola weren't there. It will be so hard to look forward to a next one knowing he will not be there. We can know though that with Rick there first, Heaven will be lined with gold when we arive. Lola, I know the loss and hurt are more than we can know, but there are many, many of us out there who would like nothing more than to pick up the phone and hear that you just need a few minutes to talk. We love you.
GODSPEED Rick ................
Harry and Louise Malicoat
Posted by Marj Payne (Member # 2538) on :
On Tuesday morning I got a call from Doug Bernhardt in Ottawa. He shared with us the devastating news that we would no longer have Rick in our lives and I think at the time I said to him and how to do you think I should go about telling Pete, after all he's had to deal with over the last few months. Of course somehow between Doug and me we did tell him and it has taken me three days to try write something to add to all the nice things people are saying. On January 23 Pete’s brother who was only 46 went in for a routine angiogram, he was a slim and trim, non smoker, minimal drinker kind of guy. He came through the test with flying colours and the results showed no plaque or build-up problems in his veins but for some reason only known to God he had a massive heart attack minutes after the test and we lost him on the 28th of January. Pete’s mother who has congestive heart failure is on oxygen full time and is very frail and sweet and kind, had to bury her son. Rick’s passing hit us so hard Pete’s mom lost a son Lola lost a “son” Pete lost a brother Pete lost a “Brother/Mentor” Pete’s mom is frail and not well and neither is our dear Lola -neither one should have had to bury their SONS There has been way to many Parallels with these two!!
We both have had the pleasure of being with and getting to know both Lola and Rick many times but far to few times over the years. My first trip to A Conclave was the year we got married, we were married in June 1990 and went to Rick & Lola’s in February of 1990 we called it our first early honeymoon, ask Steve and Barb about our second honeymoon. Of course the trip was wonderful and the knowledge & friendships acquired is far to lengthy for words. In 1992 we started Canadian Signcrafters Supply and pass on a little of what Rick and Lola have to offer to Canadian folks up here. To me Rick was a gentle giant of a man who taught us so much about so many things but mostly about being a wonderful human being.
Through my grief over the last month I have drawn comfort from some music I acquired from Nancy Beaudette& Noella Cotnam mutual sign folks in Cornwall Ontario Canada Sign-it Sign & Designs. I called and Nancy today and of course had a good cry with her and told her I somehow wanted the folks in California to also maybe get some comfort from her words and music as well. I told her I wanted to share her song with Raymond Chapman he could maybe past it on over the weekend and into Monday and beyond. Raymond and I had a very nice talk on the phone this morning and my heart goes out to him for the job he must do on Monday. Raymond has Nancy’s music and will share it. The Words to the song are as follows Blessed are You Who Mourn from her Ready for the Journey CD
In the midst of your suffering You search for me still And I will not leave you alone Though tired and weak From a long weary road You look to me and carry on
My hand is here to comfort you How great shall be your reward Your spirit is lifted on angels wings Blessed are you who mourn!
Consider the day when you first heard me call How foolish your wisdom did seem Could you ever imagine The peace you would find By placing your burdens on me.
My hand is here to comfort you How great shall be your reward Your spirit is lifted on angels wings Blessed are you who mourn!
Of course the way Nancy belts it is substantially better than my typing!!
Lola WE LOVE YOU and will call later on when all the company is gone.
We dare not be further than driving distance from Pete’s mom since she is so ill and we need to be here for her. Pete will write his own version when he feels he can. Marj Payne Bayfield, On Canada Canadian Signcrafters Supply