John Mcnelia
Dear family and friends of Rich,
Rich was a good friend and a good man. He spoke of his family and grandchildren often. He was a good Mechanic and Waterman. Rich was light-hearted and a leader at work and in his community. He liked to see the mechanics who worked for him succeed and helped them along when he could. Rich was also very loyal and hardworking. He gave over 100% and was key to the success of countless maintenance projects at Hirsh (and I’m sure at his career before that). He was always dependable and enjoyed his job. He retired with his coworker’s love and appreciation and best wishes. I know I speak for many who are greatly saddened by his loss. We had all hoped for him to have more family time and fishing/crabbing time.
He used to make sure we had a little Christmas party every year in the maintenance office with a small drawing for a tool handout. We were not allowed to share food this year but did give out some small tools. It was not the same and we missed Rich but we all agreed that he is now in good hands and the best of care, waiting to see us again one day. In the meantime we wish you comfort in that his memories are alive with his family and friends ....and out on the water at sunrise.
in sympathy, John McNelia
