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Richard Vogt Obituary
A maverick of a man and entrepreneur, Richard began as his hometown scrapper, became a Vietnam Veteran, and, later, a "Commodities Broker". Interspersed before, during and after that, he was an oil-field man, eighteen-wheeler truck driver, the first dealer of Birkenstocks in the Dakotas, sack-shaker in a mid-western landfill, highway construction worker, cable television salesman and early supporter of MTV, car salesman and financier, hippie farmer on a commune, radio voice-over announcer, medical equipment dealer and renovator of old houses. In Richard's words, he "never did have much of a career path and never could do anything but the hustle".
Many also knew him as "Richard from Texas", who made his public debut in Elizabeth Gilbert's bestseller, Eat, Pray, Love . Book critics dubbed him "a remarkable character with colloquial one-liners dispelling poignant, irreverent, humorous advice" and "so wise and possessing such an incredibly unique spirit", and "a surprisingly wise cowboy from Texas."
Richard relished any opportunity to share his love, charisma, and great wisdom from his remarkable life journey. He was especially proud of becoming sober in 1985, and remaining sober until his untimely death. Throughout his last few years, he took great pleasure in his public engagements, talks, and appearances (including two on the "Oprah" show). Having recently returned from one of his many trips to an ashram in India, Richard was a yogic meditator and passionate about his commitment to his favorite guru and foundation.
Richard also loved to fish, meditate, travel, read, and enjoy good food and the company of good people. He was a talented tinkerer, creator, and crafted beautiful homes from nothing, but his greatest passion was his family and the people he loved. He was an unpretentious, lanky, and compassionate man with a unique spirit. Undeniably a genuine and distinct character with a heart of gold, he was especially devoted to his two sons. Richard will be forever remembered for his keen wit, his exceptional talent at telling a great story, and his amazing ability to love unconditionally. Richard was predeceased by his mother and father, Eileen Thull Vogt and Victor Vogt; his ex-mother and father-in-law, Richard and Norma Brewer.
He is survived by: his sons, Royce of San Antonio and Raff of Austin; his four brothers and sister: Tom and Nancy Vogt of Victoria, MN; Pete and JoAnn Vogt of Eden Prarie, MN; Gordy and Betty Vogt, Chas and Deb Vogt, Jean and Kevin Motschke all of St. Cloud, MN; nieces and nephews: Melissa Brettingen, Megan Schack, Katie Vogt, Shane Vogt, Rachelle Wilson, Dylan Vogt, Jada Vogt, Hannah and Collin Motschke; his ex-wife Shirley Brewer of Round Rock, and his ex-in-laws, Babe, Dick, Kris, Patrick, Connie, and Lance Amos; Pete, Rick, and Brent Peterson all of Sioux Falls, SD; his dearly loved friend, Nyla Braun of Austin, and her family, Alice The Great, Jason, Justin and James (who were loved like his grandsons) all of Austin; and Joseph Hook of Boseman, MT.
Richard also leaves behind his special friends, "Clecie Bell", "Groceries" and "Sadhguru", along with a myriad of loving and grieving friends from around the world. He will be greatly missed.
A one-of-a-kind celebration of Richard's life was held at Mercury Hall in Austin, TX on Monday evening.
The family requests that donations in Richard's name be made to Isha Foundation (www.ishafoundation.org/donate). However, Richard would want anyone who cares to do as they please.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Vogt
Sponsored by anonymous.
LYNN R LAUGHLIN
March 23, 2021
"Met" him in EAT PRAY LOVE as many did, but never had the pleasure of meeting him in the real world. Loved reading about him, though, and I wish him a peaceful journey....
February 13, 2015
So sorry that our Richard has passed. Too many of the good ones go. He is with good friends in our hearts and minds.
Norah, Ireland.
Liberty Fotheringhame
October 3, 2014
"Groceries" made me feel like I knew you, and so often I wanted your advice on this or that, or thought, "Richard from Texas" would love this." I've thought of you so often and hoped I'd have the great honor of meeting you one day, but only today, Oct. 3, 2014 I learned that you passed in 2010. Selfishly, I am so very, very sad. But one day we will all meet on the other side. My belated sympathies to all Richard's family, all over the world. You are missed.
Susan Yuska
February 21, 2014
Mrs. Vogt,
I am so sorry for your lose! Please please call me if you need anything!
With love
Susan Yuska
Debi Higdon
October 1, 2013
I miss you, my dear friend. At times I can still hear your wisdom and your humor. You touched so many lives & truly made a difference.
Aislínge Kellogg
August 1, 2013
I loved him in Eat, Pray, Love and it is sad that his light has gone out. I hope a fraction of that light will touch all of us left here.
Brenda
July 12, 2013
Lighting a candle in memory of "Richard from Texas" who touched me deeply with his words of wisdom in the book Eat, Pray, Love. May he continue to RIP and touch others hearts even in death.
Jan Hall
October 21, 2012
I wish I could have known you. Peace, love and light.
September 25, 2012
R.I.P. i was looking you up to see if you had heard from adrian deirh. and was shocked to hear of your passing.I was glad i got to meet you thru Adrian she loved you so much.
Chris Wagner
September 2, 2012
I join a legion of those, who wish they could have known Richard personally. I miss you, you came into my life from an appearance on Oprah, and left
Just as suddenly, with a few lines after the show,
That you had died in March of 2010. I felt like I had lost a friend, so good-bye my friend. September, 3-2012.
Sharon Revere
July 22, 2012
He touched me deeply. I just found out about his passing (two years later) and am so grateful to have known him, even from afar. Sharon
Maria Akins
May 3, 2012
Dear Richard, You are loved by so many. Your life was short, but fuller than most. I never knew you in the flesh, but I can feel your spirit as I'm reading Eat, Pray, Love for the second time. May you rest in eternal peace.
John Barnes
September 18, 2011
I just happened to do a search for Dick on Facebook when I found, to my surprise, his obiturary. Dick and I were roommates for a couple of years in Houston and partners in a cable TV company back in the mid-80's. Dick worked in Houston during the week and went home to his family on the weekends. We were also good friends and I remember many good times. I have read many of the thoughts of people here and they all describe the Dick Vogt that I knew then. I had no idea Dick had become so famous as I lost touch with him long ago. I remember many of his one liners and we had long discussions on many topics, as everyone knows, Dick could talk about almost any subject. I just wish I would have looked for Dick sooner and found him before he passed. It would have been great to talk with him again. Like most everyone posting here, Dick played a major part of my life for a brief time. Rest in peace my friend, via con dios.
Your old friend,
John Barnes (JB) Houston, TX.
Kat Bowie
June 29, 2011
Richard, I just found out that you have left your body. My friend, thank you for your gift. After my husband died, you let me know I could love again. You reminded me that I could feel that feeling of love and wanting again and it was such a surprise and a blessing. Thank you, my dear. My heart hurt and my eyes teared up when I heard, yet i was glad for your release and filled with gratitude for your energy in my life. namaste by soul friend. In Love and Peace, Kat from KC 'til we meet again...<3
Hildi Pio
June 23, 2011
Richard. In my life I have always wanted a force of nature as yourself to shed their wisdom on me. So far I have seen two that mean a lot (you make up that half). However, what I've learned is to be yourself, share and keep one's eyes wide open to see. Thank you :)
April 30, 2011
Rest in peace Richard...you had a profound impact on me when I watched the movie eat, pray, and love. I am sure you touched many lives with your spirit and will be truly missed. Pam P. (Houston, TX)
Catherine G.
September 1, 2010
It was strange to "see" you on the big screen last nite. It was like you were alive again - especially when someone would say your name. It was overwhelming to realize the hole you have left in this world. We will try to fill it by your example. Happy Trails to you Richard. Catherine G., Westlake Group
Judy Miller
August 15, 2010
I saw the movie yesterday and was really sad that Richard was not hear to see it.
Rest in peace Richard. You've left your mark on the world.
Tammy Walk
April 20, 2010
Richard always brought a smile to anyone he met. We had some good laughs. He will be truly missed.
Bill Bettendorf
April 18, 2010
From one Pantown kid to another, Goodbye "Vogt With The Rep." I wish we could have reconnected.
Gemma Hobbs
March 24, 2010
I am sorry to hear that such a kind spirit has left our space. I met Richard two years ago when he came to Fort Worth to do a book signing and lecture from Eat Pray Love. He had a warmth and genuineness to him that drew people in. God bless you Richard - may you be filled to the brim with all the light you shone on others.
Sharon Blackwell
March 17, 2010
I met Richard also on the Sierra Club Big Bend trip. At the time I had a foot problem and he gave me some much needed medical advice to get through the trip. A very kind and compassionate spirit. You will be missed!
Marsha Robinson
March 13, 2010
A couple of years ago Richard asked me to take some publicity shots of him shortly after Liz's book became a best seller. I am not a professional photographer, just a friend with a good portrait lens.
I knew Richard for 9 years and enjoyed many good times with him. He was a special messenger...and will be greatly missed by many.
If you would like a nice picture of Richard you can order a print from here...
http://picasaweb.google.com/marshino/Richard02?authkey=Gv1sRgCJSZ04X_o8KOFQ#
Debi Higdon
March 12, 2010
Richard was my favorite mentor, always available for words of wisdom when I needed them. He was a dear friend & I will always hold dear in my heart, our talks and walks around Town Lake. Much Love and Blessings to the family. Debi Higdon
Matthew Barrett
March 12, 2010
I've known Richard for many years, sharing time before he was so worldly recognized for what I knew him to be: thoughtful, insightful, and practical. He is a friend I have been thinking of lately and I know he is in blissful peace with God. Safe travels my friend.
Anaid Garza
March 10, 2010
Last night I was reading Eat, Pray, Love and came to learn about Richard. This morning, falling head-over-heels for his wisdom, I was searching the internet to find out more about him and any seminars he might be giving. Today I realized that I will not hear him speak, that we gained an A n g e l and how blessed I am to have flipped through some pages and learn about a WONDERFUL man. My condolences go to his family and friends. God bless you.
Charese Lande
March 9, 2010
I went to Richard's memorial service yesterday, knowing him for many years through our meditation center. It was an incredible service filled with laughter and tears. Thank you to all who shared your experiences with Richard. It deepened my experience of him. Thank you especially for his family. Your authenticity and honesty allowed a large group of people who did not necessarily know each other to have a truly intimate time and a real celebration of his life. His celebration allowed Richard to give me one more gift, with the gifts of knowing this one-of-a-kind man. I went home and called all my sisters to share with them the important parts of my life I have been unable to share. As his life, his death touched me in realizing, don't wait. He gave the gift of having the permission to be yourself, warts, strengths, history and all with unconditional love and acceptance. Thank you Richard, his friends and family. It was an honor to know Richard and an honor to meet his welcoming family.
Angie Gallagher
March 9, 2010
Dear Royce, While we didn't know your dad personally we did know him through you and, of course, the book and Oprah. Our hearts go out to you and the rest of your family. He lived a good life and will be missed but not forgotten. We send our love and hope your memories and the love of all of us who love you will help you through this. Blessings to all of you, Pat and Angie Gallagher
Elizabeth Orosco
March 9, 2010
My husband and I had the pleasure of meeting Richard almost 6 yrs. ago...we are his tennants in one of his houses. He was a wonderful landlord, he helped us through some hard times and that will never be forgotten. Richard was truly a good man, and my husband and I will never forget him. Our condolences go out to all his family and friends...
Elizabeth and Freddy Orosco....
Mark
March 9, 2010
Life will be different without your wit and laughter which I encountered whenever we talked. Thank you, Richard, and may your spirit continue to guide with wisdom for life. Peace!
Joy Sablatura
March 9, 2010
Thank you to all who shared at Richard's memorial/celebration of his life yesterday at Mercury Hall. I was so touched to hear more about his amazing journey. What a bright light he brought to so many... he was so loved and appreciated. The times that we talked over coffee at Whole Foods were not often enough. Richard, you always brought a big smile to my face and a hearty laugh to my belly. Thank you for brightening my life. You are so missed!
Laura Westcott
March 8, 2010
Congratulations to meet you, Richard! You will be missed by many. You and your family are in my prayers.
Gilbert Rivera
March 8, 2010
Richard your participation in the Rosewood neighborhood struggle will always be remembered by those of us that stood together at City Council. Your voice was needed than as mush as it is needed now. Thank you my friend! Amor y Paz.
Jane Rivera
March 8, 2010
In knew Richard as a concerned neighborhood member and a great resource and inspiration. Richard you were easy to befriend, and my condolences to your family and many loved ones around the world.
Bob Schuh
March 7, 2010
Dick we had a lot of good times when we were younger, growing up next door to each other. As a matter of fact all of us Pan Town boys had good times. You left us to soon. See you on the other side.
Wes Phillips
March 7, 2010
Hey, Rich...loved your phone call on Christmas eve. What a surprise! Stood in the snow at the in-laws' and enjoyed a few minutes of your wit and wisdom, as always. You taught me many things, my friend and teacher, and I will grieve your passing with a heavy heart. But I do not grieve as those who have no hope. Instead, I trust that we will be together again - perhaps sooner than later. Rafferty and family, my prayers go up for you as you heal from this difficult loss. Even this, too, shall pass when it is time. "Well done, thou good and faithful servant!" I can still hear the echo of your lovely baritone voice saying, "I'm happy to be here...I'm just happy to be anywhere." Love you, man.
March 6, 2010
"RICHARD FROM TEXAS" IS BELOVED AROUND THE WORLD IN 28 LANGUAGES. HE WILL BE IN ALL OUR HEARTS FOREVER. SGC MONTANA
Mark Alley
March 6, 2010
Richard, you will be greatly missed! My prayers are with you and I'll never forget you. Thank you for your reassurance when I had my heart scare and your wonderful insight on life.
Your spirit lives on!
Hope Camacho
March 6, 2010
Richard, I have fond memories of the Thanksgiving trip to Big Bend with the Sierra Club, when I met you and enjoyed your company on several of the hikes. I would have liked to see you again.
Charlie
March 6, 2010
I know this has to be shocking to all that knew you. My condolences go out to Nyla, your family, and friends. Although you had heart problems, your enthusism for life was pallible. I was always amazed by the ease at which your traveled through life. It is hard to believe you are gone. I remember all the times we talked and laughed at satsang. You were a devoted devotee who gave selflessly in your seva.
My love goes out to you and all you grieve your passing.
March 6, 2010
My brother you will be missed by many many people.You have and still will be in all of my prayers.
Phil W.
March 6, 2010
What a trip you were in my life, Richard! You have left an indelible impression on me. There are things that you said that I think about EVERY SINGLE DAY OF MY LIFE. I have laughed so often at your crazy stories and just LOVED the way you always TOLD ON YOURSELF.
You will be sorely missed by countless others. My heart goes out to you, Nyla, his long time companion. May God be with you during this time of great loss. You are in my prayers and I am here for you, should you need a friend. Loving Richard and YOU
~Judy W.
gail moore
March 6, 2010
I send my sympathies to his family and close friends. I know you will miss his creativity, lightheartedness, and the nicknames he appointed.
I meet Richard on the Sierra Club Big Bend trip where he dubbed me “Terlinguale”.
He was a great dancer. we danced swing at a party and he teased me by calling me “Gale Evans” because of my fancy snap button, yoked western shirt.
Richard ~ send us some thoughts of the afterlife.
~Gail Moore
[email protected]
Terence Collins
March 6, 2010
Hey, Slice, you had a good ride, my friend, and entertained a crowd or two along the way.
I will fondly remember our walks around Town Lake and your special friendship.
Ride easy, brother, and until we meet again....
Terence T-Bone Collins
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