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Richard Alexander Obituary

Richard Hamilton Alexander

Bonita Springs, FL

Richard Hamilton Alexander of Bonita Springs, FL died unexpectedly on Wednesday, January 30, 2013. He was 55. Formerly of Duluth, GA, Los Angeles, CA, and Boise, ID, he was a resident of Bonita Springs for the past five years.

Richard was born October 11, 1957 in Atlanta, GA, a son of Hamilton and Mary (Haren) Alexander. He graduated from Duluth High School (GA), North Georgia College (BS Chemistry) and Georgia Institute of Technology (MS Computer Science). He belonged to Sigma Omega fraternity and worked for Digital Equipment Corporation and HewlettPackard.

The contemporary meaning of the old proverb, "a rolling stone gathers no moss," describes Richard and his life. He was full of ideas, creative, and on a never-ending quest to learn, to travel, and, most of all, to hike. Thousands of miles of hiking began in the early 1970s when he first set foot on the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, at Springer Mountain, GA. He hiked long sections of the trail for many years, finally becoming a thru-hiker in the late 1990s. To the many people he met along the AT, Richard is known by his trail name, Amtrak. In addition, he hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, the Continental Divide Trail, the Annapurna Circuit, and the French Pyrenees, to name just a few.

Richard loved to travel and visited most of the world, preferring to trek his way across countries so he could mingle with the natives and enjoy the local culture and cuisine. Last year he made what was to be his final Earthly sojourn, spending three months in Eastern Europe, regaling his friends and family with emailed tales of his travels. Richard will be remembered for his analytical mind, his story-telling prowess, his ability to find humor at every turn, and his kindness. He was especially kind to the Earth, and spent untold hours working and lobbying to protect and defend what he considered our greatest treasure and his true love<$>nature. In keeping with this love, his family requests that memorial contributions in his name be directed to The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, P.O. Box 807, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425.

He is survived by his mother, Mary Alexander Harris of Bonita Springs, FL; sister, Mary Ellen Alexander of Estero, FL; brother, Robert Alexander of Bryson City, NC; aunt, Betty (Joe) Durham of Greensboro, GA; and uncle, George (Lea) Alexander of Chattanooga, TN.

He was preceded in death by his father, Hamilton Alexander.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, February 4, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. at Community Congregational Church, 15300 Tamiami Trail North, Naples, FL 34110.

His remains will be returned to the Appalachian Trail at a later date.

For more information: [email protected].

Arrangements made by Shikany'S Bonita Funeral Home.

Published by Naples Daily News on Feb. 2, 2013.
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Memories and Condolences
for Richard Alexander

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Met you briefly ,Richard, on a trail...
May you rest in Peace on the Heavenly trail that carries you Home...mary gallant

March 8, 2013

I met Amtrak on the PCT. It was a special day, visiting my mom in southern California we decided to get sandwichs and have a picnic up in the mountains near Mt. Wilson. Of course I wanted it to be on the PCT and as we parked the car Amtrak walked by. I stopped him because all through hikers are practically family. We had a most wonderful lunch together and shared some of his adventures and exchanged emails. Just know that meeting Richard has been a wonderful memory for me over the years. I am saddened to know he has passed and for your loss. I will never forget him. I will hike on the CDT this summer in his memory.

Rena gallant

March 7, 2013

I just now saw that Richard had passed on to be with God. I'm sure He has plenty for Richard to do as He did here on earth. You all will be in our prayers knowing that Richard is in a much better place, even as your hearts have been broken, God will heal that too, over time. I know you have many years of great memories to help heal your pain. I hope to try to make it to the memorial at AFSP. I'm living in Cumming and Melanie is in Dawsonville. Just know that God has a plan for us all and you all will be reunited in Heaven one day.

Regina Roberts

February 24, 2013

May our Creator comfort you during this time of sorrow; many people are strengthen by reading the Scriptures to learn their love one is no longer suffering with any sicknesses. (Genesis 2:7; 3:19)

Malone Family

February 9, 2013

To the Alexander family...Mary, Mary Ellen & Robert,

I am a friend of Roberts, from Canada. So very sorry to hear about Richard's passing. I never met him, but from his bio, it sure sounds like he was well liked and respected...a great loss for all who knew him. My deepest sympathies to you all, and your extended family. In the days and weeks ahead, I wish you much peace, and the understanding that Richard is in a better place.

Thinking of you,
Brent C.
Miramichi, New Brunswick
Canada

February 6, 2013

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

S.Griggs

February 5, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Judy Knox McCorkle

February 4, 2013

With deepest sympathy to the Alexander family during your time of grief...God is for you a refuge and strength, A help that is there to be found during difficult times...May God provide you with peace and comfort to endure the days ahead.

February 4, 2013

Hugs and prayers to you all

Stephanie Harris

February 3, 2013

Dearest mary, Mary Ellen and Robert,

Only a week ago Richard helped me with a computer problem.I will always remember him as a gentle man who left his footprints in many places around the world as he met people and cared for the earth. I am fortunate to have known him over the last 5 years. Suzanne Harris- Lake Wales,FL

February 3, 2013

Mary Ellen and Family,
I was saddened to hear about Richard's death. I know all to well how much it makes your heart ache when you lose a younger brother. You have my deepest sympathy, and I'm sending lots of love your way.

Susan Webb

February 2, 2013

To Mrs.Harris, Mary Ellen and Robert, please accept my heartfelt sympathy and prayers in this time of loss.
Richard was my best friend for 50 years and I will truly miss our many adventures together traveling, backpacking and fly fishing.
His expert treking skills and love of nature were only matched by his insatiable desire to travel to new places and meet new people. He was an intelligent, kind and caring person that will be truly missed.
In recent years our Nation's first designated scenic and wild river, the Chattooga river, had become our favorite fly fishing destination. As I think of the clear flowing waters and peaceful surroundings, I will always think of my dear friend Richard.
May he rest in peace with our Lord.

Tom Mattison

February 2, 2013

Mary Ellen, my heart is breaking for you as you face the loss of your brother. Please know that I am praying for him as he enters into Heaven and praying for you and your family. God Bless you all and God Bless your brother. I love you Mary Ellen.

Marie Garrett

February 2, 2013

I am so sorry for your loss. When I think about all the fun times I had in high school I always think about Richard. What fun we had riding in his little bug. Love you Big Al.

Omie Echols

February 2, 2013

Mary, we are saddened to learn of Richard's passing. Although we cannot understand why God calls our children home before us, we do know that our loved ones will find peace in His kingdom. We send our sympathy to you, Mary Ellen and Robert.

Richard and Suzanne Martinez

February 2, 2013

Mary Ellen, Richard will be missed. My prayers are with you and your family. I treasure our last get together in Duluth and I'm sure all of us were looking forward to more good times with him.

Ginger Summerville

February 2, 2013

To my friend of more than 50 years.....your intellect, humor and friendship will be missed by many. May your heavenly journey be a combination of all the wonderful things you found along the way on your earthly one. God bless you and may you rest in peace Big Al!

Ann Jackson Tiberghien

February 2, 2013

My heart breaks for you and your family as you deal with the loss of such a talented, caring son and brother. It is not our place to know why, but I trust that Richard is at peace. God is in all things.
Love to you all!

Sally Loudermilk

February 2, 2013

Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

February 2, 2013

Mary Ellen, I am so very sorry for your loss. Love you, Shirley

Shirley Burton

February 2, 2013

I am sorry for your loss Mary Ellen and family. God bless you during this difficult time and remember to cherish the memories you created together.

Beth Godwin

February 2, 2013

Please accept my sympathy for the death of Richard. The obituary captured an interesting and caring person. I know he will be missed. Mike Green

February 2, 2013

I am so sorry for your loss. I didn't know Richard well, but the few times we spoke, he was always so friendly and pleasant. Rest in peace Richard. God bless you and your family.

April Hoover

February 2, 2013

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