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Richard D. "Rick" Choura
Richard D. "Rick" Choura
Obituary
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Richard Choura Obituary
Age 60 on Thurs. Oct. 8, 2009; after a long bout with leukemia; beloved son of the late Richard H. and Helen Choura; brother of Jeff, Randy (Nancy), David (Rini) Choura; uncle of Brigitte and Sam Choura; also survived by aunts, uncles and cousins. Rick was an accomplished organist and choir director for many churches, the voice of Chartiers Valley Show Band and a teacher at CV for 30 years. After retirement, he volunteered at Walnut Grove Church and School. Friends welcome Sat. 7-9; Sun. 2-4 & 7-9 WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE, 1650 Greentree Rd., Scott Twp. Funeral Service Mon. 10 am in Chartiers Valley UP Church, 320 Washington Pike, Carnegie, PA. Contributions may be made to the "Rick D. Choura Music Scholarship Fund", c/o 1650 Greentree Rd, Pgh. PA 15220, to be used for a Chartiers Valley student.
Send condolences at post-gazette.com/gb
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Ken Tuma
October 4, 2024
Can:t believe so many years have passed... but I still miss my Good Friend Rick
David Synowiec
October 5, 2020
Rick will always love on, as I will never forget his powerful influence on my life. He was an example of kindness and authenticity. He showed Grace in every interaction of his that I witnessed. I love you Rick, and I miss you today and always.
Andrea (Eger) Garry
December 16, 2009
I was so saddened to find out that Mr. Choura had passed on. He taught me so very much many years ago as I worked with him while student teaching in 1987. I still use the many tips and techniques I learned from him. His legacy lives on as I now teach all those things to my students.
I have so many fond memories of the time we spent together--his beautiful piano playing, his love for teaching music, his love for his students, and his awesome sense of humor. We had so many laughs together. He was forever losing his keys, which I now do! Every time I look for them, I think of him. The best of the best was when he locked his keys in his running car when he stopped by the Stop 'n Go on the way from one school to another.
Thoughts and prayers to the Choura family. Mr. Choura will forever be in my heart, my soul, and my music!
Jennifer Blythe
November 7, 2009
To the family of Mr Choura:
I am a 1988 Graduate of CVHS and just learned of this passing today. I will always remember Mr C. fondly especially "Corner of the Sky". May you take confort in knowing you now have an angel in every corner of the sky. This is a great loss to entire CV Community far and wide.
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Stacy (Blackstock) Garrubba
October 20, 2009
Mr. Choura was one of my most wonderful and memorable teachers (from elementary school through high school). He cared so much about his students. No matter how many years had passed since I had last seen Mr. Choura, he always remembered me. I'm sure he did this with all of his students. He was just that kind of person. Mr. Choura will be missed but his memory will live on in all the lives he touched.
Kathy Morus
October 18, 2009
Thank you "Mr. Choura" for being there for our boys. Even after you retired, you were still a teacher, helping David with his theory so he could do well on his audition to Duquesne! And for Andrew, he could always count on seeing you at the concerts. He was so happy that he was able to get to this years festival and to have a chat with you. May you enjoy singing in that heavenly choir of angels!
Wendy Weaver
October 16, 2009
Dear Choura Family,
I am sorry to hear about the passing of Mr. Choura. He was a wonderful, caring teacher and friend. I am a teacher and it is said that when you become a teacher it is because you have the love of teaching and that someone along the way inspired you. That was Mr. C. He cared about each student and was there to inspire each and everyone of us to do our best. He will be missed.
Wendy Weaver (Pottsgrove, Pa)
1982 Worlds Fair
Bruce Siskawicz '82
October 15, 2009
I was very sad to hear about Mr. Choura. He was one of the best teachers I had at any level. He made a difference.
Lauren Bush
October 14, 2009
My deepest sympathies to your family... "Uncle Rick," as I always knew him, was always a great addition to our family's gatherings. I remember when I was in elementary school and enthralled with the musical "Cats." I placed music for "Skimbleshanks the Railway Cat" on our piano, and Uncle Rick sight-read it and made it sound just like the recording! I was shocked.
I'm sorry I couldn't attend the service with my mother. Please know you are all in my prayers.
October 14, 2009
Jeff,Randy,David I was so sorry to hear about Rick. I wish I would have known. I would have liked to see all of you. He was a great teacher. I remember when my girls,Tricia and Lisa came home from school and told me Rick was their music teacher. They were so surprised when they found out he was a old friend and neighbor. There were some good times on Thompson Street. Rick will be truly missed. My prayers are with you. Kathy Habjanetz Sugar
kathleen zimbicki
October 14, 2009
To all the Family So sorry for your loss. deepest sympathy. kathleen & Mike Zimbicki
Karen Habjanetz-Watkinson
October 14, 2009
Jeff, Randy, David:
I was so sorry to hear about the passing of Rick. Your whole family were great neighbors on Thompson Street. Hope all the memories will help you get through this difficult time. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Michele Buczkowski
October 13, 2009
I recall my mom, Shirley Wittas, telling me stories about when she used to babysit the "Choura Boys"...and then came the day I joined the choir at CV and Rick said, "Michele, you've got to call me Mr. Choura now!"
Rick went from a neighbor to a teacher, a mentor to a friend.
Jeff, Dave, Randy -- your loss is our loss, too. Whenever I drive by your old white house, I will hear your brother in my head, feel his kindness in my heart, and remember the love he has shown us all.
May you rejoice in your union with our Blessed Father, Rick. I love you.
Ruth Klein
October 13, 2009
Many prayers and memories to the Choura family. Mr. Choura was one of the reasons I became a music teacher.
Ruth Klein (would have been CV class of '86 had I not moved away)
Julia Ransom
October 13, 2009
I just have to tell you how special Mr. Choura was truly was. I am now a freshman in college and I had Mr. Choura for music all the way back in Primary school. He truly left a legacy with me ever since then. I remember him making the whole class laugh to the point where we were all almost crying. He made me love music just because of how much he cared for it and cared for us. Thoughtout my years at CV I always saw him around and he always remembered all of us as we grew up. He truly cared for us and had such a passion for teaching that was clearly evident. I worked at the Family Chrisitan Bookstore, which he came to visit often, and it was always such a joy to see him walk in the door. I always enjoyed talking to him, he was always interested in my life and what it was that I was involved in. He was truly special and meant alot to all of his students. I can't wait to one day see his smiling face as I enter the pearly gates too!
Ashley Sigley-Buchert
October 13, 2009
I am deeply sorry for your loss. I will never forget Mr. Choura. He instilled in me a love of music and acting. My pap and him would talk all day long about music and how to play. I will never forget doing Oliver in middle school and my voice cracking on opening night. Mr. Choura would just laugh and laugh and instilled in us that even though mistakes will happen you have to roll with it. He is and was a very talented and terrific soul. I feel very sorry for all the future classes that will not have the oppurtunity to be graced with his presence.
Sarah Monahan
October 13, 2009
Dear Choura family,
I was very sorry to hear of your loss. I did not know Rick very well, but did meet him many times at the holiday events Randy and Nancy hosted that I attended with my grandmother and family. Rick was a very kind man and I appreciated that my grandma always had a chatting buddy at dinner. I'd like to think of Rick now as a guardian angel for all of you. *hugs*
October 13, 2009
1950’s----Happily… we were playmates… “cousins”.… (we share the same wonderful Aunt and Uncle)
1960’s----Excitedly… we were classmates….(CV Class of 1967) (with a couple of class reunions behind us)
1970’s and 80’s----Affectionately… I hugged you at “Open House “ (embarrassing my daughter that I hugged her teacher!)
1990’s and 2000’s----With enjoyment….. I listened to you announce the CV Band and Char Vallets (My daughters, both drill teamers, said no one could ever top you!)
All these years I have watched you in the community become respected and loved.
And now in 2009…. Sadly… I say goodbye to a long time playmate, classmate, teacher and friend.
Peace be with you…
Our deepest sympathy to your brothers, Jeff, Randy and Dave and their families.
Veronica (Wittas) Cardamone and Family
Candi Wice Kahan
October 13, 2009
Dear Jeff, Randy and Dave,
I was so sorry to hear of Rick's passing, so young and of our generation. I hope that he didn't suffer. It was so wonderful to hear of all of his accomplishments and how well he lived his life. I will never forget him. My deepest sympathies, Candi Wice Kahan [email protected]
Kenneth L. Tuma
October 13, 2009
Dear Choura Families: I was ALSO very saddened to hear about Rick's passing.
A TRULY fine Friend and Fellow-Musician, having known and worked with him so often for so many years, as a Director and as my Accompanist on so many Occasions At Fort Cherry HS, and at Char-Val Singers for so many years But I remember 'Rick' mostly as a Dear and Compassionate FRIEND...and will miss him and his 'Sense of Humor', let alone his Musicality. My condolences to his family, and ALL of those he has TOUCHED in his lifetime. There will never be another "Rick"!!! He was "ONE of a kind"!
Trish & Shawn Cerezo
October 13, 2009
He was such a blessing in our lives, we were glad to know him and him playing for our high school chorus concerts and my husband traveled with him to sing. We named our youngest son Matthew "Richard" after him. He was such a great person!!! Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Choura family
Shawn and Trish Cerezo
Stefania Lorusso
October 13, 2009
Dear The Choura Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I remember Mr. Choura, he was my music teacher in elementary school through middle school. I can always remember his singing advice to the class. We are going to miss one terrific teacher.
Stefania Lorusso, CV Class of 2001
Deborah Craig
October 13, 2009
Jeff, Randy, and Dave, I would like you to know what a blessing Rick was in my life. Our speech sessions together were the best. I'll always remember his "Belly Giggles" when he was being the "Clown". His favorite line was "I tip my hat to you", and then he would giggle.I know he is smiling on all of us. He touched my heart in a very special way. I was blessed by his life. With heartfelt symapathy, Deborah
Tom and Sondra Greer
October 13, 2009
Our deepest sympathy to the Choura family. We will always remember Rick behind the piano who could play anything asked of him. His talent was beyond words. A sincere and truly kind person to all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dawn Cash
October 13, 2009
Mr.C was an inspiration to so many people. My fondest memories of middle school were made in his class..I met my best friend in there. Id always hear him say, Dawn and Dawn stop talking cuz thats what would inevidably happen. He made music come alive in a way no one else did. And of course the Show band every friday night i can still hear his voice announcing the band, he was a good teacher, and a good neighbor too. He will be missed. My condolences go out to the family.
Dawn Cramer Cash
CVHS class of 1990
Mike Schellhaas
October 12, 2009
Jeff, Randy, and David I am very sad to learn of Rick's passing. It sounds like he loved the Lord and is in His prescence. My thoughts are with you, wish I could hear him play Fly Me to The Moon one more time. Class of 67.
Willa Neil
October 12, 2009
To the Choura Family, I just now learned of Rick's passing, and am so saddened that one of our greatest musicians is no longer with us. He gave countless hours of his time to the youth of Hiland Church over the past two decades, helping them raise money for mission trips, and was such a treasure of compassion sharing his faith and talents with each and every one of them. His gentle ways, tremendous energy, and insatiable appetite will be remembered by all of us so fondly for years to come. Rick was a living example of God's love for each and every one of us, and any whose lives he touched have been made fuller by the richness of his gifts.
mike Barbaryka "93
October 12, 2009
Mr c will alway be miss he touch everyone hearts in his own special way
Joan (Teyssier) Kundra
October 12, 2009
Mr. Choura was a wonderful man! He made this horrible singer feel like a star! I can't hear the Hallelujah Chorus without thinking of him. Though my son never had the privilege of being his student, I was able to introduce him.
I remember when Mr. Choura came to Christ U.P. Church to do an organ concert...
One fond memory of my times in chorus...at the concerts seeing Mr. Choura in his tux with tails. He poured his heart and sould into teaching and passed his passion and love for music on to many.
The choir of angels has a new director.
Gregg Franjione, class of '82
October 12, 2009
Mr. Choura will be missed tremendously. My sympathy to the entire Choura family, and to all those who considered him family. He was one of the most caring and kindest persons I have ever met. He taught me a lot in my years in the Concert Choir at CV, but so much more than music. Although I'll never forget the bass part to the Hallelujah Chorus, the Magnificat, Star Spangled Banner, & so many other tunes, I also will never forget how much fun he had at what he did for a living. All of us should be so lucky to have a work life spent doing what we enjoy, are most passionate about & most talented at. Some of the times I've laughed the hardest were times when Mr. C was around. He became quite the family friend after graduation, stopping by on summer nights or during the holiday season to just chat with my mom, dad, brothers & sister, play the piano while we'd all sing along, or play board games- Pictionary comes to mind as classic Mr. C hilarity- his (drawing) artistic ability was not anywhere close to his musical ability :) He came up to visit my wife and I in Michigan within a couple weeks after we moved away from the Pittsburgh area in 1986. Our apartment buzzer rang on a Friday afternoon & it was him, out of the blue. We packed a bag & spent the weekend in northern Michigan and had a memorable time. The world could definitely use a lot more people like him. He will be missed & thought of often.
Tim & Debbie Grimes
October 12, 2009
Rick was a compassionate man who touched many lives. He always had a smile and a kind word. His family has our deepest sympathy.
Tim & Debbie Grimes
Lou Beccari, '81
October 12, 2009
To the Choura Family,
My deepest sympathy to you on the passing of Mr. Choura. His dedication to his profession and his enthusiasm for his students made him an institution at CV. The impact he had on his CV kids will be felt for years to come. Mr. Choura, thank you for being you. Until we meet again, God Bless You.
October 12, 2009
Rick you were a gift to me and to our whole family. You may have been my piano teacher, but you became a friend as you invited me to share life with you and not just piano lessons. We always joked because of the story you once told us about a young child who made you a card intended to say "you are my favorite teacher" but in true child-like fashion it read "Dear Rick, you are my fart teacher."
I feel deeply sad that we will not have you around the dinner table, or over for family gatherings as an honorary Baldauff. I will always be grateful that you traveled to Reading Pa to play the organ at our wedding. You are loved more than you can know. And Rick, you will always be my fart teacher.
Joe & Joyce Changle
October 12, 2009
To Mr.Choura's Family,
Joe and I were very saddened to hear of Rick's passing. He was the kindest caring individual and loved his job and his student. There was mutual gratitute.My husband would call Rick for a Boy Scout Function and he would be there in a heart beat. Never never said no.He is difinetly being rewarded in heaven.He deserves peace.
Lynnette Franjione Kelley, class of '86
October 12, 2009
My deepest sympathies go out to Mr. Choura's family. He was such a wonderful, kind, and gentle man. Our family enjoyed frequent visits from him and Mr. Reece back in the 80's. My favorite memories were of us all playing board games, or just sitting around the piano singing. I, too, will never forget my alto part from the Hallelujah Chorus, and I have him to thank for that. It was fun having him for a teacher in high school, since he had already been a family friend. And I'm grateful I got to see him just a few months ago. He will be missed terribly.
Maria Cummings
October 12, 2009
To the Choura Family,
Your family as well as the CV Community has lost a wonderful man. Mr. Choura was my music teacher for as long as I can remember, from elementary days through high school musicals and choir trips. He graced my wedding day with his beautiful music. I will forever remember him fondly. May your family rest in the knowledge that the choir of angels are making beautiful music with Rick's help. Sincere sympathy on your great loss.
Maria Bombassaro Cummings, CV Class of '82
Shannon (Carilli) Guerrieri
October 12, 2009
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Choura. Hearing his name brings back so many high school memories: musical practices, the Halleluia Chorus, Corner of the Sky, football game halftime shows, graduation. He always seemed to have at least one can of Mt. Dew sitting on top of the piano, but he usually managed to fall asleep playing anyway. Even though it looked like he was sleeping, the music went on; he was still playing... We'll miss you, Mr. Choura.
Joyce Potechko
October 12, 2009
Jeff and Family
I was so sorry to hear about Rick. I will miss seeing and talking to him each month when he came in to the business office. Take care and my prayers will be with you in this time of sadness.
Keith Seiler
October 12, 2009
To the Choura family, please accept my condolences on the loss of Rick. He was a man of great talent and passion. As a student of his in the early 80's, he has influenced me in music and life. Our after class discussions taught me that Rick was in a class by himself. My brother Eric and I would talk about the energy he had an stage as well as in the classroom. Rick will be missed by so many. I only wish I could touch the lives of half the people Rick has. I will have a lifetime of memories.
Shirley Wellinger
October 12, 2009
My prayers of comfort and peace go to the families of Rick, natural and spiritual families. I am thankful I was able to know Rick and sing under his direction with Covenant Community Church, The Concordia Singers, and whenever Rick called to sing at various churches or for organizations or weddings. He was a joy and a wonderful, gifted musician and director. I marvel at his faith and also am thankful for the years our gracious Lord gave him even after his life changing event. God is good and faithful and I know we, as believers, will see Rick again and praise our God and Savior, the One we sang on Earth about and to and where Rick is in the Presence of. Blessings to you all.
Rest in the comfort and JOY of His arms, Rick!
karen & Henry Maiorano
October 11, 2009
To the Family of Rick Choura, My deepest sympathy, for the loss of your Loved one. My prayers are with you and Rich.
Lynn (Drukalski) Aubrey
October 11, 2009
To the Choura Family,
I moved to the Chartiers Valley school district in 1972 at 7 years old and had Mr. Choura's from 2nd grade all the way through graduation at Chartiers Valley High School. Music class was the 'fave' in elementary school as Mr. Choura was the 'best'! I'd bring home songs and sing for my mother and father all I learned in each music class! As I got older, I was privledged to have him for continued music and concert choir in high school, where he shared his talents and patience with each and every one of us! He was a dedicated man not only to his love of music but to his love of children and young adults! As so many of his students, I will always and forever think of him when we hear the Hallelujah chorus, and never will I be able to stop myself from chiming in and belting out my soprano part!
God has you and your piano now Mr. C.!
The class of 1983 will always remember you with a smile!
Bob and Lori Brunk
October 11, 2009
Rand and Nancy:
We are sensitive to your loss. The tributes to Rick suggest that you have many good memories to help you through this difficult time. You and your family have our prayers for strength, comfort, and the restoration of joy. God's blessing and peace.
Diane Minnis White
October 11, 2009
To the entire Choura family,
I send my deepest condolences on Rick's passing. I had the pleasure of teaching with Rick at the Primary School. I will always remember his love and dedication, both toward his job and his students. He has touched more lives than I'm sure he ever realized and he will be greatly missed.
Larry G. Wineland
October 11, 2009
Our prayers go out to the Choura family.
He was a fantastic colleague and friend.
David, Kurt & Pam Bethman
October 11, 2009
Dearest Rick,
Your wit, sense of humor, fascination of trains, enjoyment of a good meal, love of music, the pleasure of telling and listening to a funny story and so much more will be missed. We love you. Your favorite cousins in Seattle.
Carrie Hoffman ( Engebretson) Class of 1990
October 11, 2009
My deepest sympathies go out to Ricks family and friends. Mr. Choura was a great teacher and a true inspiration to all of us. He was my choir director for 6 years and he could always see the potential in all of his students. Throughout our lives, we all have certain people that we never forget, no matter how much time goes by. Mr. Choura will always be one of those people in my life. I am always reminded of Mr. Choura whenever I hear the Hallelujiah Chorus. In particular, I will never forget how at the end of his concerts, he would always invite any choir alumni to the stage to sing with his students. As both a student and alumni, it was such a tribute to him to see how many people would stand up and take the stage. Mr. Choura will truly be missed, but I am confident that he will be leading the choir of angels in heaven.
Deb & Joe Colosimo
October 11, 2009
To the Choura Family:
Our deepest sympathies to you all. Rick was a gentle soul and a good man who touched many lives. His gift of music was shared with all. My children loved him as a teacher. Just thinking of him brings a smile to my face. May you all find peace in the knowledge that he touched so many lives in a positive manner.
Antoinette Horick-Meyers
October 11, 2009
Mr. Choura and Family,
I did not know Mr. Choura as much as the class of 1988 did. For the limited time that I was there, Mr. Choura had spread his love of music to everyone. He had taught me things that I have not learned to do before I met him. I send out my gratitude to him and sympathy to his family for their tremendous loss of a talented & caring man. I have also enjoyed watching him work his magic with the music classes at Chartiers Valley Primary School when my daughter (Amanda) was in the 2nd grade. He will be terribly missed by all of those who have been blessed to have known him. God Bless him in his new adventure in Heaven with the Angel Choir.
Helen Lucatorto
October 11, 2009
Dear Jeff, Randy, David, and extended Choura Family,
Our deepest sympathy to all of you.
The memories of growing up, our mutual kinship, and the years of being professional colleagues make up a treasured connection with Rick and the Choura family. Rick’s talents, kindness, and friendship will long be remembered. Our prayers are with all of you.
October 11, 2009
Dear Dave, Rini, and your entire family,
We are saddened to hear of your loss. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Jeff and Lisa Carper
Martha (McGervey) Kandrack
October 11, 2009
I am so sad to hear of Mr.Choura's passing, and yet I smile and feel great joy when I think that he is in the presence of Jesus! Mr. Choura is the one who inspired me to study music education. How many of us remember singing the Magnificat and the Hallelujah Chorus? Mr. Choura was a true blessing to the Chartiers Valley community. I will miss seeing him after each concert. He always came and gave words of encouragement. God's blessings and comfort to all of his family and friends.
Sara Simpson
October 11, 2009
Choura Family,
I was saddened when I heard the news about the passing of Mr. Choura. I had the privilege of being one of his students in 1993-1995. He was a great teacher with a tremendous passion. May he rest in peace and may you all find peace in knowing that he is in a much better place.
With Sympathy,
Sara Simpson
Chris Durmick
October 10, 2009
Mr. Choura and I had quite an adventure some 30 years ago now. He was my beloved and nutty teacher, and after graduation he and I embarked on a transcontinental journey by train. That trip is indelibly etched into my mind, as is Rick and his crazy and eclectic personality. My heart aches that I missed my chance to reminisce with him. He has always been a great influence on me through all the rest of my journeys.
Cherish is the word I use to describe....
October 10, 2009
Jeff and Family,
My deepest and heartfelt condolences to your family on Rick's passing. I shall always remember his pride and and sense of accomplishment as he taught, worked with, and so eloquently introduced the Chartiers Valley Show Band and Charvalettes. His musical talents and all that he did for the students of Chartiers Valley will long be remembered and cherished by those who had him as a teacher and those of us who were colleagues. God Bless and Peace be with Rick and his loving family.
Dr. Michael L. Bonacci, Retired High School Principal - Collier Township
Michael Murphy
October 10, 2009
He was a great teacher and friend. Always there when you need him and would do anything for you. I can't think of Sister Act, Phantom of the Opera, Pippin with out thinking of him. Or Readdy for Saturday n...ight which Nicole Cain Campbell and I danced to. Thanks for the memories old friend may you sing with a choir of Angels. I know that would make him happy.
Evan Zatezalo
October 10, 2009
My sincere condolences to the Choura family. He was a one of those special people that I feel lucky to have known and will never forget. He was my teacher and my friend. Take care Mr. Choura.
October 10, 2009
We were very sad to learn of Rick's passing, having been next-door neighbors at Swallow Hill Place from the mid-80's to mid-90's. Rick was the best next door neighbor - always so helpful and fun to be with. We spent many hours having delightful conversations about music, faith, you name it. He was truly a talented, unique individual who will certainly be missed by all who knew him. The choir of angels must be delighted he has joined them. Blessings to his family - You will be in our prayers.
Lynne & Terry Molyneaux, Ross Twp.
Kathy (Sickle) Nelson '79
October 10, 2009
Thanks to Rick for always going the extra mile. He was a wonderful teacher as well as a great person. My children will always be able to name every state in the country because of "50 Nifty United States"! From two generations of students, our prayers to your family...Rest in peace Rick.
Ryan Condon
October 10, 2009
Thinking of Mr. Choura will always bring a smile. He was a good person. I will never forget him as my chorus teacher.
Michele Phillips-Payne
October 10, 2009
To the Choura family - My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I was saddened to hear of Ricks's passing. I had the privilege of having Rick for chorus back in the 80s and my children had him as they entered the primary school. He was a great man and will be sadly missed by all.
Robert Walker
October 10, 2009
To the entire Choura family, please accept my most sincere condolences on the loss of Rick. I have very fond memories from my childhood at Good Shepherd of Rick and the other Choura brothers. Rick was a very special person with an enormous musical talent and his loss will be felt greatly by everyone who knew him. May God give you strength and comfort during your time of grieving.
John Bozick
October 10, 2009
I was sadden to hear of Ricks passing. He was a great person and accomplished musician and fun to be with. I will miss him. John Bozick
Leslee Deep
October 10, 2009
How sad I was to learn that my favorite high school teacher has passed on. After 25 years, I still know both the Alto and Soprano part to the Alleluia Chorus. Most of my fondest high school memories are from his choir class. My love of music continues today because of him!
My heartfelt sympathies to his family. What a sad loss for us! May his talent ring on in heaven!
Chartiers Valley High School Class of 1983
VICKI & FAMILY
October 10, 2009
CHOURA FAMILY,
OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO YOUR FAMILY MAY GOD HELP YOU ALL COPE & BLESS YOUR FAMILY. REST IN PEACE RICK
Robert Willhite
October 10, 2009
My deepest sympathies. My four years in the CV marching band were enhanced by his presence and his wisdom. He was the enthusiastic voice of the band and an enthusiastic teacher of music. He took pride in his students, whether he had them in class or as part of the music program at CV. He will be missed by all. May the grace of God guide you all during this difficult time.
Robert Willhite, CV 1986
VKR
October 10, 2009
OUR DEEPEST SYMPHATY TO THE CHOURA FAMILY, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE RICK..
GOD BLESS.
October 10, 2009
To the Choura Family,
I am so sorry to hear that Rick has passed away. I met him in high school and seen him while working at Chartiers Valley school district. Rick was such an amazing guy,warm and caring and a true friend. Both my sons had Rick for music in school and thought he was a great teacher. He will be missed so much...Janet,Justin and Jason Sveizkas
Kathy Kruluts Tracanna
October 10, 2009
My deepest sympathy on your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.
October 10, 2009
Mr. Choura was my kindergarten music teacher. After his retirement he countiuned to be an enthusiastic and encouraging supporter of all Chartiers Valley Music Department concerts and activities. He will be fondly remembered by all of his CV students. My condolences to the Choura family.---------Michael Spak, (CV Class of 2010)
Harriet Kistler
October 10, 2009
Dear Randy and Nancy,
So sorry to learn of Rick's death after
his long struggle.
May God's peace and comfort be with you
and your family.
Sincere sympathy,
Harriet Kistler
Pam (Ruma) Plunkett
October 10, 2009
Dear Choura Family, You have my sincere condolences on the passing of Rick who was such a wonderful person. I have very fond memories of him from my high school days back in the mid to late 70's between choir and his assistance with our Marching Band. He always brightened our days! He will be remembered. God Bless, Pam (Ruma) Plunkett
Carol Logan
October 10, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of Rick's death. He is one of my happy Good Shepherd memories as we were growing up. He also helped to make my long ago July wedding a beautiful day-despite the overwhelming heat. How he managed to keep his fingers from sliding off the organ keys is a mystery to me. God blessed him then and continues to now.
October 10, 2009
My depest Sympathy on your loss
George Teyssier ,Jr Chatiers Valley U.P.Church
Kara (Brem) Cervelli
October 10, 2009
Mr. Choura was one of my most beloved teachers at Chartiers Valley High School. His gentle nature and easy-going style helped so many of us shine like stars on the CV stage. His memory will be in my heart for always. My deepest sympathies to the Choura and CV families.
Cynthia Griffin
October 10, 2009
David,
I am so sorry to hear about Rick. Please accept my sincere condolences. I remember Rick as a wonderful man who had the patience of a saint and gave so much of his time and love putting together the elementary chorus programs. My children would come home and sing those songs and practice because they loved your brother and wanted to do a great job for him.
Now the angels do have a choir director.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Cindy Covi-Griffin
Rachel Rex
October 10, 2009
My deepest sympathy to the Choura family. Rick taught me so much in the 6 years I had him for choir. He believed in each and every one of us.Because of this we in turn believed in ourselves and our talent blossomed.He was not only a teacher but, a friend. If there was anything that we needed all we had to do was ask.
Isaac Holeva
October 10, 2009
My voice will remind me of you every time I sing! May your songs now join the angels in heaven and thank you for everything sir! R.I.P.
Jim Ellenbogen
October 10, 2009
JEFF AND FAMILY
Please accept my Deepest Sympathy on your loss
Mary Chabala McBride
October 10, 2009
Rick was a beloved mentor and friend to us all. I had the pleasure of learning theory and singing in the CVHS Choir. I'll remember the Halleluia Chorus that we always sang to conclude our final concert each year. Rest in peace and pllay for the choirs of angels, Rick.
Lois Witkowsky
October 10, 2009
Jeff, Randy, Dave, and Families,
Jim and I are so saddened by the loss of our dear friend, Rick. I will be grateful forever for all that Rick taught me. He was the master! It was a privilege to be his student in high school. His passion for teaching choral and organ music and his phenomenal talent blessed and enriched so many lives, ours included. When Jim and I married 20 years ago, we wanted the music to be a special part of our cermony, so Rick happily obliged, providing exquisite music at the organ. I will dearly miss him, and always treasure the memories of the many rehearsals, performances, and wonderful times enjoyed as a member of the very special choir family Rick founded in the Concordia Singers. Good Shepherd, now he sings Thy praise, within Thy house, forever. Rick will be forever missed by so many. Jim and I extend our deepest sympathy, along with our prayers and much love.
John Bashaw
October 10, 2009
My condolences go out to the Choura family. Rick was so much more than a music teacher to me, he taught me so much in the time I spent with him. May he find his peace in that "Corner of the Sky".
Becky Hurst
October 10, 2009
My love, thoughts and prayers are with all who loved Rick. So many happy memories of my very unique cousin: playing school with us when we were little, sharing meals and vacations growing up, Rick playing the organ at my wedding, his faith. You will be missed!
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