Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Richard Sutter Obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Sutter
Another Game of Soduko RNS, PS CA 03 06
VS Barocas
June 20, 2010
A Wet Note, Nighttime Lawn work and
a Whole Lot of Scrabble
While unable to recall the first time I met Dick, I can all but guarantee Ray introduced us during late spring 1981. We were neighbors; they lived literally across the street.
Several weeks later, Dick proffered a “gentle” reminder of our first meeting with a terse, handwritten note found between my car’s windshield and wiper. Despite some illegible words –courtesy of Rehobeth’s salty morning mists that causes ink to bleed – Dick encapsulated his droll humor, direct manner and generosity, in some 20 words. Even today, I can hear him write, “You always drive by, but never say, ‘Hello’. Why not stop by and be more neighborly. Dick Sutter.”
The friendships solidified later that summer. One midnight, I see some strange outdoor lights transform their patio into a well lit film set. Clearly not wanting my neighbors, now new acquaintances, to think I might be spying or stalking, I ambivilate as I dial their number. In clear contrast to my tentative, almost apologetic query, “Is everything ok?’, Ray nonchalantly explains he’s mowing their lawn, in a matter-of-fact tone suggesting that lawn care normally occurs after midnite and that I was out of synch.
A few days later, Dick, shaking his head with metronome like precision and his ever present cigarette, chides both of us, “Ray, what are you doing mowing that lawn after midnight? It’s a patch of grass so small you’d be better off with some hand shears; they’d be easier to use and manage.” Continuing without a pause, Dick with a teasing smirk, evident in his eyes and voice and smile, asks, “So tell me, what were your plans if someone besides Ray answered the phone?”
Over the coming years, Dick and I enjoyed playing Scrabble regularly. Short term we forced each other to improve at strategy and language, with an extra benefit: our enjoyable and challenging between play conversations could be prompted by anything from everyday minutiae to a book one of us was reading, or some current event/news story.
Years later, long after I and then Dick and Ray, left DC, did the full impact of those conversations emerge. We talked about the experiences that shaped our opinions and reactions: the context.
Today, I still try, albeit not always successfully, to understand the context for others’ reactions, opinions and behaviors. At the same time, I can still hear Dick cogently assert his core belief that context provides neither a crutch nor excuse. Ultimately, we all must recognize our individual responsibilities and accountabilities.
With things like all day Scrabble games now history, Dick’s ability to engage others through humor, honesty, generosity and personal accountability remain the true gifts I try to practice and share.
Ginny Foat
June 9, 2010
Ray I was so sorry to read of Richards passing. Take solace in the wonderful and long life you shared together. My prayers and thoughts are with you.
Leo Cohen
June 8, 2010
Ray....
I send you my warmest wishes at this time of your great loss. May you find strength in the wonderful memories of your many happy years together. Sincerely yours....
May 30, 2010
Dear Ray: My thoughts are with you. I was fond of Dick for a long time. I won't forget the wonderful evening with you, Dick and Jane. Thank you. Nancy Arnold Saltspring Island, B.C.
Jane Patchett
May 30, 2010
Dick was a true gentleman and will be missed. He was always a pleasure to be at the bridge table with. How fortunate you have been to have had him for so many years.
Ron Arden
May 29, 2010
Dick Sutter was a one of a kind amazing person and friend. His love of travel, enjoyment of food, happy outlook and kindness and thoughfulness will always be remembered. I feel fortunate to have been a friend of Dick's and his partner Ray. Dick will always be in my thoughts and are an important of my memories of all the things we shared and enjoyed over the many years. I miss you Dick. Thank you!
Ken and Frances Chung
May 29, 2010
Ray, we are so sorry to hear of Dick's passing. We extend our deepest condolences to you and Dick's family. We will miss him and his wonderful sense of humour.
the Ed's
May 29, 2010
Edmund and I wish to express our condolences to you Ray on the passing of Dick
Ed&Ed
Showing 1 - 8 of 8 results
Make a Donation
in Richard Sutter's name
Memorial Events
for Richard Sutter
How to support Richard's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Richard Sutter's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
