I had the honor and privilege of working for Richard over the past year at Heritage Yards. I always enjoyed hearing about his family, his interests, and his love for his job. Although I did not know him long he became a friend that I got to spend a lot of time with in recent months. Richard will be missed by all and I continue to pray for his family and all that mourn his passing. The softball fields won't be the same without him. 

Todd McConaughy

I've known and respected Richard for over twenty years now.  I first met him during his days with P.S.A., where he umpired and was the director of our adult men's baseball league.  The relationship continued to the present through his years with Plano Parks & Recreation.  I quickly grew to appreciate his competence, good humor and easy manor, as we became fast friends.  He was a kind, gentle soul and was always available with bended ear to address any grievance or conflict, with a fair and compassionate heart, which always led to an amicable solution.  I informed the members of the Plano Knights baseball team of his untimely passing, with a heavy heart.  Known affectionately (mostly by the hitters) as Richard "Shoebox" Danielson to Knights veterans, for his consistently tight strike zone, he was a fixture in the sporting community, as the league grew and thrived over the years, under his tutelage.  I admired his attention to detail and commitment to excellence over the many years of service to his community.  Although I never knew his family, I could feel the love and warmth emanating from the images posted here.  I regret that I will be unable to attend the services, but wanted to take the opportunity to pay my respects and to pass on my condolences to his loved ones.  I considered him a friend, and the loss of a friend is always mourned by those left behind.

THE UMPIRE

The firm and ready handshake
And "play ball" to start the game.
A legend on the diamond
And the "Shoebox" was his name.

A privilege to bear witness
When he got behind the dish
If he'd only call the corners
Almost every hurler's wish.

The measure of consistency 
Under pads and blue.
A tight and steady ship was sailed
When he headed up the crew.

He never lost an argument
And always gave his all.
For all the years I've known him
He never missed a call.

Another game completed 
And "The Poet" tips his cap.
The Blue & Orange salute you 
As you take your final lap.

RMB,OD
11/18/15
Rest in the peace of Christ, dear friend.

Richard was an outstanding employee and an even better person. He will be greatly missed in the Plano Parks and Recreation Department. I will personally miss the opportunity to play golf with Richard, where I came to know him better and what a wonderful man he was to be around.

We here at Richard and Ann's church, First Presbyterian of Plano, have been honored by their presence, Ann since 1988 and Richard since 1991, and by their years of service as Elders on Session and on various committees throughout the years. Richard was ordained as Elder, and served in the Class of 1995, 2004, and 2015; he was the sitting Clerk of Session. To say we, as his church family, will miss him, is an understatement. I think to know Richard was to love/like him; a true gentleman and all-around great guy. Rest in peace, dear Richard. Our hearts go out to Ann, Andrew, and Ashley...we love you all and wrap our arms around you.

Ann worked with my late husband, Carl, for many years in Austin.  Richard worked for their store in Dallas area.  Carl suggested that they attend a company function together when they both needed a "date."  Six weeks later they were married.  I told him he "matchmakered" himself out of his right hand gal!  I'm so glad you found one another and didn't waste any time getting to be full time with one another.  God gives us many gifts in life.

OBITUARY

Richard Evan Danielson

July 16, 1955 – November 12, 2015

Ted Dickey Funeral Home

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