Uncle Dick gave me my first book. Decades later, when I reminded him of this, he asked for the title of the book. I reminded him it was "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas". Uncle Dick paused and said "You see, all book are important". I am grateful to have known Uncle Dick, to have watched his devotion to books over the decades, but especially for my first book.

I worked with Dick right out of college in the 1970s. He was both colleague and mentor for my 5 years at Little, Brown, and what I learned there served as the bedrock of my 40-year career in book/magazine publishing. LB also provided me with a lifelong friend in Dick (and another in Leslie). I will never forget his humor, honesty, and loyalty. I miss him already. Sleep well, dear.

Dick was my agent on my first book, The Kingdom of Zydeco. He showed up with caustic wit, deep curiosity, vast knowledge, and fierceness right when I needed it most. More than anything else, Dick made it clear that he believed in me and in my book, and that meant the world. I am forever in his debt.

Worked with Richard since I started with WVA starting in 2003, was such a great person to work with he was. Always had a wonderful attitude all the time. Whenever we needed some application signed he helped. Even after he could not come  into the office he still wanted us to have them sent to him. We will miss him R.I.P. Richard.

A little late to comment but I just came across this. I worked at the old Book Clearing House and Dick was my manager.  He was quirky and bright and immensely hard working. We were together for a short time before I left for another job but he made a remarkable impression on me.  RIP Dick.