I remember the first time I learned of Richard's existence. My wife, Lindy, also worked in the Office of General Counsel at the NRC and she told me of this attorney that, when the staff would hit a bar after work, would always hit on her. She asked me to come meet him just to show him I existed and Lindy was spoken for. I did so, and immediately liked him. We all became good friends. And when he finally found Susan, we knew he had found his perfect match.
For years, Lindy and I included Susan and Richard in our family holidays -- Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas -- and we spent many happy New Years with them, because they were the best kind of family -- family by choice. We also made many trips together and spent a number of memorable days with them on their boat. When they retired and moved to Florida, that made a big hole in our lives and we always made sure we went to see them at least once per year -- often coinciding with the Army-Navy Game. As I watched Navy beat Army for the 13th straight time last Saturday, I couldn't help but think of Richard throughout the game and when I talked to Susan one of the first things I asked was whether Richard saw the game. Of course he did, with Susan at his side.
2014 will go down as the year that Susan and I both lost our spouses. And when the loss comes from illness, as it did in both of our cases, at least you have the ability to prepare yourself for the end. And although you are never ever prepared for the moment it actually happens, you can survive it. If you are strong. And I heard it in Susan's voice, both right before it happened and the day it happened. She is one strong lady and there will be a tomorrow.
Susan, you are greatly loved by many people, including me, Kate and David. We will always be here for you.
Dick Fritts
