I feel fortunate to have called Dick a friend. We met thru Sheila and I knew him first as a husband and a great man. Only after our friendship started did I find out the amazing impact Dick had on our world. He sure had a big impact on mine. I spent a Christmas Day with him that I will always cherish. Listening to records and old stories about his time in the sky. The night he told me about his time in Vietnam will always stick with me. A wonderful soul that will fly forever.

I met Dick 40 years ago when were Air Force Colonel’s working at United States Atlantic Command in Norfolk. I was a “baby” Colonel and Dick was kind enough to help me get settled and understand the fine points of what it meant to be an Air Force Colonel. I always respected his “style”…professional, friendly, funny…and gracious to all he met. I knew Sheila before Dick…she worked at Shaw  Air Force Base where I was in training. I was so pleased when I learned they were married. Dick and I re-connected through a mutual friend Col Ron Squiers and met for lunch periodically to share old stories and “solve the world’s problems”. I will always keep my very fond memories of Dick…and…how he made a difference. We should all be so lucky.

Colonel Dick Rybak was my great friend for over 40 years which included USAF duty at USCINCLANT in Norfolk where Dick was in charge of all current operations in the Atlantic. I retired and left for United Airlines - Dick followed me about 9 month later. We both were Captains at United and flew safely all over the world. After we left United, we stayed close and got together for lunch every month or so with another great friend - Colonel Carl Loveland. Dick was one of the most professional, compassionate and talented people I ever knew. He was a true hero who was shot down in Vietnam but just kept on going and was eventually selected to full Colonel at least 2 years ahead of his contemporaries. His wife Shelia is a truly wonderful lovely person who has taken such good care of Dick with little or no help through very difficult times. She’s also a real hero. I will miss Dick - there are no better friends …..

One of my favorite photos ever of my beloved Mike and his very best friend Dick when they were assigned to Cam Rahn Bay in Vietnam, 1969.  They remained fast friends to the end, and we were blessed to have him live with us during his year at National War College.  No doubt they are together at Heaven's Bar, sharing the best memories.  Miss you both; rest in peace!

March 29th 1982, at Charleston A .F.B. Officer’s Club, Richard’s eyes caught mine - there was no going back. 
We spent, close  to, four  decades together. 
I miss him so and will always love him. 
Peace my love.

Dear Sheila, family, grandchildren ,  feeling your loss of this fine, accomplished man.  Rich was a man of distinction,  tremendous work ethic, marvelous sense of humor, kindness, avid sports fan.   Loved his family deeply - including relatives still residing in Ukraine.  

My deepest condolences.   Gloria

OBITUARY

Colonel Richard John Rybak USAF Ret.

August 2, 1944 – March 16, 2026

Smith & Williams Funeral Home/Kempsville

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