Claude-Richards-Obituary

Det. Claude D. Richards

New York, New York

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New York, New York

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Bombs Were His Business
If ever a man was to the bomb squad born, it was Detective Claude Richards of the New York Police Department. Fearless, meticulous and disciplined nearly to a fault, Detective Richards, 46, the bomb squad's intelligence coordinator, spent his off-duty hours working, working out and planning his next workday. When he took some time off, it was to defuse land mines in Bosnia with a United Nations peacekeeping force.

All the way from boyhood, Dan, as Detective Richards was known, "always wanted to charge up to the front," said his brother, Jim, "just to prove himself." He was in the Rangers in the Army, and on the bomb squad his command presence allowed him to give orders to colleagues who far outranked him as he oversaw security logistics for events ranging from presidential visits to the United States Tennis Open.

Detective Richards, who lived in Chelsea, was a complicated man. True, he could yell at a co-worker who borrowed his stapler and put it back in the wrong place, but he also didn't think twice before taking his shoes off on the street and giving them to a vagabond, Jim Richards said.

Detective Richards's work ethic left him little time or space for relationships, his brother said, but added, "He was so devoted to his work I don't think he had a problem with it."

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March 4, 2025
Thinking of you on your Birthday !!!

Happy heavenly birthday to Claude, or as I’ve noticed many call him, “Danny”. Danny, reading about your life, story, and service, I have been in awe in all you did and all the different disasters you responded to and helped with. You sound like such an incredible man and hero. I hope you are enjoying your special day where you are, and please know you and your great dedication are never forgotten. My condolences to your family and friends. Thank you so much for all you did, Danny.

Thinking of you today on 9/11.

So many years have passed since elementary school, when Danny was a friend. We lost contact over the years but I remember him as a happy, gregarious kid who always stood up for those who were bullied or teased. He had a big heart. May his soul rest in peace.

You are so often thought of - especially today on your birthday !!

Thoughts of you today

Danny you are not forgotten. Your ITHS friends are with you and keeping your memory alive and with us always. 50 years since graduation. We honor and remember you.

Can´t believe all these years have passed. You are not forgotten.

Even though another year has gone by and another Birthday passes - you are not forgotten. You live in my heart and memories.