RICHARD FREEDMAN Obituary

RICHARD FREEDMAN
SEPTEMBER 22, 1953 - JULY 16, 2023
Santa Fe - Rich was dearly loved by many. He was a giant with a soft, loving heart who took good care of the many people he loved. His motto was Love, serve and feed the people.
He had a unique way of combining work with fun and especially enjoyed it when friends would visit at the TeaHouse. For instance, he and Dick famously enjoyed a regular, rousing game of Backgammon. An expert at multitasking, Rich all at once could play, greet guests, give feedback to staff while jonesing for his favorite lunch, chicken pot pie. Polenta crust please, not pastry. Even at the busiest times, Rich would lighten the stress by insisting staff take a minute to look at the newest funny dog videos.
He was genuinely kind, interested in what you had to say, and actually listened.
Rich Freedman was the big heart and generous soul of the Tea House and El Farol. He will be sorely missed.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Santa Fe New Mexican on Jul. 20, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for RICHARD FREEDMAN

11 Entries

Elizabeth Nicholaides

August 28, 2023

About 20 years ago I told Rich he had the best name I'd heard. He asked why as if it had never occurred to him. His internal treasures, love and compassion truly made him rich, and he had indeed freed himself from so many pieces of the past that could have held him back. He was truly a Rich FreedMan.

Rich was a dear friend and a mentor to me and so many others. His hospitality was unmatched. He took me and many others in as we were starting new lives, and hosted fantastic and delicious X-Files Parties once a week for all of use who were dislodged. No surprise that he went on to extend his hospitality to citizens of Santa Fe and the world through El Farol and the Tea House.

I love you, am grateful for you, and will always honor your spirit. Well done, my friend!

Elizabeth Nicholaides

David Rieken

August 4, 2023

I didn't know Rich, beyond going into the Teahouse regularly, but he had a way of making me feel like we were friends. Even running into him around town, he would say hello and make it clear that he recognized me. Quite a loss, and if the Teahouse doesn't continue to exist, that will be a great loss.

Paul Hultin

July 25, 2023

Vicki and I will never forget the poker games at Rich's house. He made losing fun! He will be missed by all who knew him

Kevin

July 24, 2023

Deepest condolences to all those affected by Rich Freedman's business practices in Santa Fe. Leviticus 19:11. Thoughts and Prayers.

Dudley Hafner

July 23, 2023

Sadly, I only recently met Richard. I knew immediately that this was a person I wanted to know better. He exhibited all the things in the person you wanted to know as a close friend.

Billie Blair

July 22, 2023

What a shock to lose one of the the good guys. It was my honor to work with Rich when he was new to Santa Fe and consulting for business and nonprofits while I was at the Santa Fe Community Foundation. He expertly led a leadership training group for executive directors of NPOs, a place they could learn and space they could feel safe. His contributions were invaluable, and his attitude always upbeat. So I was not surprised to see his success in business and enjoyed running into him at the Tea House or El Farol. Ironically only a week ago, the great cantaore Vicente and I were discussing how Rich treated everyone as we all would want to be treated. May light perpetual shine upon him.

Cindy Peck

July 22, 2023

I only knew Rich these last few years. His railroad years. He was a lovely, kind friend with a ready smile. His passing is a blow to all who knew and loved him and his gentle nature. He will be missed by many.
Cindy Peck
Cindy Peck

Greg

July 21, 2023

Rich was a very dear soul to me. No matter the time or distance apart I always felt the closeness of an old friend. I´ll miss you.

Colleen Burke

July 20, 2023

I am so sorry to hear of his passing, he was such a kind man, always with a smile, always going out of his way to help people.

Blessings on your journey, Rich, and condolences to your friends and family.

Earnie Ray

July 20, 2023

My condolences to the family . May you find comfort in your treasured memories and Gods promise to return our loved ones . 1st Thessalonians 4 : 13&14.

Marianne Mohr

July 20, 2023

What an incredible human being. Living near THe Teahouse and El Farol I got to know Richard peripherally, but always observed him to be caring, kind and engaged. One instance stands out. During the Covid shutdowns I heard he kept his employees on the payroll. I am shocked and saddened that one of the good guys has left the building. While his body is no longer among us, his spirit remains. Until we are all reunited in the Great Infinite Consciousness ... be well friend and journey well with the knowledge that your works are known and you are loved.

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