Bruce Miller
Dick was my boss's, boss's, boss when I began my career (translation: he was way above me). I remember being intimated when I'd meet with him, because he was so darn sharp. So the first lesson I learned from him was...be very, very prepared!
But his quick mind was tempered by an equally wry sense of humor, which made him very human and very approachable. He even played on our division's softball team, the oldest and most senior executive by far. But on that field, he was our equal, not our boss.
He was also someone who never complained. No matter what ailments he had, he'd never call attention to them, and would deflect the conversation if I'd probe at all. He preferred to talk about anything but himself—the delight he had in Edith's commitment to Lab rescue, being genuinely interested in what I was doing, etc., but never himself.
So that's what I treasure most in my memories of Dick: someone who demanded and inspired excellence, tempered that with a delightful sense of humor, and was a selfless person who cared for those around him. All in all, a great way to live and be remembered.
Dick, I'll miss you as a boss who morphed into a friend, and send my deepest sympathies to the members of your family, who I know are mourning the loss of a very special man, husband and father.
Wednesday September 28, 2016 at 12:53 am
