Richard Fastabend Meyer

Dr. Richard Fastabend Meyer, 104, of Harrisonburg, VA peacefully reunited with a beloved circle of family and friends who went before him on Friday, September 19, 2025. Richard was the second son of John Carl Meyer and Elizabeth Fastabend Meyer. He embodied humility, compassion, kindness, quiet dignity and a keen sense of humor. Richard was born on September 13, 1921 and is preceded in death by his parents, his brother John (Virginia, Bettye and Gary), his second wife, Barbara (Lisa, Rachel and Rakesh), and his third wife, Carol Way Meyer (Noel and Amy). Let's not forget Minou the cat. A series of joyful reunions. Richard attended Beechwood High School in Fort Mitchell, KY and Westchester High School in NY. He graduated from Dartmouth College in 1944, earned his Master's from Harvard University in 1950, and completed his PhD at the University of Kansas in 1968. Between his academic pursuits, Richard proudly served his country during WWII as a Colonel in the U.S. Army Air Corps. His lifelong passion for geology led to a distinguished career with Exxon, the U.S. Department of the Interior, the U.S. Geological Survey, and the United Nations. Renowned for his meticulous research, Richard was a sought-after speaker and respected voice in his field. His work was widely published and admired by peers across the globe. Richard embraced his golden years with Carol as a season of joy, curiosity, and connection. Their adventures across the US-scenic drives, spontaneous detours, family and friend reunions and homecomings to Dartmouth-were a testament to living fully and intentionally. Richard was a lover of nature, animals and sports - and his generosity was bestowed on various charities and foundations that emulated his passions. You'd rarely see him without his green Dartmouth baseball cap, typically reading in the sunroom with a cup of coffee. Birdwatching was a simple pleasure. Richard had family and friends who adored him, and a wife who both advocated and doted on him. If you remember one thing about Richard, remember this: He was never the loudest voice in the room, but his presence spoke volumes beyond measure. A true gentleman. A special thank you to the Sunnyside Community second floor Nurses and CNA's for your love and care of Richard, his care companion, Fahira Hodzic and special neighbors & friends, Don and Nancy Myers and Sandy O'Gorek. Dr. Richard Fastabend Meyer will be honorably resting alongside fellow Veterans at the Culpeper National Cemetery. A graveside military service will take place on Monday, October 27, 2025 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, feel free to make a memorial contribution to organizations that feel reflective of Richard. He'd be honored. Raise a glass to Richard-a life well lived, a legacy well earned. Well done, Good Sir. Well done.