Richard Franklin SIVEL Jr.

Dear Doris, Eleni, all of the family, and Rich's colleagues:

There are feelings of shock and great sadness at losing someone I counted as a friend, who was the son of my dear friend Doris and brother of former classmate Gwen. But there is also a great sense of loss in another sphere, that of the labor movement and the ongoing struggle for peace and social justice. It was very gratifying to discover in recent years that the boy I remembered from elementary school had become a man...

Blessings to all, Rich included of course, and he travels on. I'm so sorry to have missed the Memorial, but didn't know about it until after the event. Wishing Rich endless time to explore, celebrate and carry on into other worlds. This world is better for his presence.
Much Love from Amy Hathaway, Keene, NH

Mrs Sivel,and family--I have been trying to find the right words of sympathy,and realize,there are no "right" words--just the truth--that this is such a tragedy,and that Rich was a WONDERFUL human being.When we all met for lunch in Nov,it was quite special to me.I was looking forward to seeing Rich again in Dec,as we had planned.
What an amazing man--which speaks to what wonderful parents/family he has.
I wish I could come to Conn ,on Thur,to honor him.You are all in my thoughts and...

Rich was a man whose every thought, word and action was about justice and peace. He was stalwart in his convictions and committed to his worldview. The world has lost a gem. Rest in peace Rich.

My last conversation with Rich and another co-worker was at Council 4 on Friday, December 16, 2011. Always in work mode, the conversation was about building a coalition to help get out the vote in the minority community. I was totally shocked to hear of his passing and still stunned as I write this. I will always remember Rich as 'My Forever Yes Man' - because no matter when I asked, he always said yes. I will truly miss you! With Blessings, Peace, Love, Admiration and much Appreciation,

Peaceful rebel, good man, great human....peace Rich.

I'll remember Rich as a person who always spoke of the positive though he was aware of the negative. He had a "glass is half full" outlook and was a true champion for peace and justice. I'll miss him as a companero but he will continue to be an inspiration to me. My sincerest sympathies to his family.

How appropriate for us to remember Rich at the Friedns Meeting House. How many Monday nights over the years did he lend his smile and his compassionate wisdom to those gatherings of CT Citizens for Peace and Justice? His presence will always linger there, and be marching beside us as we try to manage without his energy and thoughtfulness.

When I heard the news of Rich's passing it had a physical impact. Rich and I "share DNA" through the Coe family, but I learned of this just a few years ago so we were "official" cousins for a short time. He was the impetus for my own genealogical pursuits, and he provided great support for me in this endeavor. He was a blessing to me when my mother died this past March. Doris, my love to you. Meredith