Well folks, Rich has taken his talents to heaven. Upon arrival he was met by his mother Hilda, his grandparents, cousins, some aunts and uncles, and several dogs. He quickly made himself at home and began teasing them while playing random songs he thought applied to the moment on the most badass IPhone ever!
While still here Rich became a professor. He used his wit and humor to teach future health professionals, many of whom are currently on the frontlines of the Covid pandemic. He took great pride in his work and great joy in his students.
Rich was also an amazing friend. He always wanted the best for those around him. He expected great things but helped you achieve those goals. He did have a way to call you on your B.S. but he made sure you knew you were loved.
For someone who hated to travel he sure lived in a ton of places! 6 cities and 2 countries to be exact. No matter where he went, nothing made him happier than to be in Florida with his family and friends.
Ever the proud Cuban, and adopted Columbian, he loved sharing with others the culture, tastes and sounds of the island and country he never saw. One of the best things he did was to fling his dance partners around the dance floor to the sounds of Celia Cruz, Wilfrido Vargas, Fonseca and many others. If you were lucky enough to be one of those dance partners, he’d make you look like an expert while your feet never touched the ground.
The last 8 years Rich called Cortez, FL home. A little slice of Old Florida. He found a quirky little street on an even quirkier little island and fell in love. He’d often call just to say, “Where do I live?” in amazement of a particularly beautiful sunset or a kind gesture from a friend. He truly considered himself blessed.
He leaves behind his father, sister, brother in law, and countless framily (who were just as important to him as any of us). I’m sure he has a lot of opinions about how things should run up there and is giving the Big Man a run for his money.