He began his life in Lake Placid as a college student working summers and winter breaks at the Lake Placid Club. After college, Lake Placid became his full-time home where he met many of his lifelong friends. His work in food service included positions at the Steak and Stinger and as a food salesman, which allowed him to travel all over the Adirondacks and deepened his connection to the area. He also worked at the now defunct National Door Company. After receiving his MBA, he started his business as a Certified Financial Planner working with small businesses in the North Country.

He was a dedicated volunteer at the Lake Placid ski jumps as a starter, for the Ironman directing traffic, and as a founding member of the Lake Placid Rotary Club, where he continued to hold leadership positions until his death.

He met his wife of 28 years, Paula (Blizniak), while living in Lake Placid. They relocated to Cohoes, New York, with Lake Placid becoming their part time home for many years. He continued his volunteerism by assisting the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany chairing their finance committee and later acting as treasurer.

Richard was known for his wit and dry humor, typical of one of Icelandic heritage. Family and friends describe him as steadfast and contemplative. He became a parent late in life and was a devoted father to his daughter Anna. Winters were filled with his passion for skiing, especially at Whiteface Mountain with Anna.

He is also survived by his brothers David (Kathy) and Mark (Mona), sister Stephanie Ryan and several nieces and nephews. A memorial service will occur at a future date.

To honor his devotion to Rotary, donations to the Rotary Club of Lake Placid (rotarylakeplacid.org) are welcomed.