Words cannot express the sadness we feel. Earlier this week Larry and I learned of the passing of our dear friend and brother in Christ Rich St. Denis. His passing has left a hole in our hearts. My mind is flooded with memories of the special times we had together.
Larry first met Rich at Eglin AFB in Florida and later again at Korat AFB Thailand where they were stationed together, committed Christians, along with other airmen, they supported and encouraged each other as all were so far from home.
Rich returned to the United States in 1974 and Larry in 1975. There was such a close bond that Larry asked Rich to be one of the groomsmen in our wedding. That’s when I met Rich for the first time. 1975. Shortly after we were notified of Rich’s accident and diagnosis. Once released from the hospital, Rich was able to visit us in San Diego.
Decades have passed since that first meeting but Rich was never far from our hearts. When he came to the San Diego VA hospital, we would get a call that Rich was in town and the visits were always a priority. We never knew when he would show up or for how long he would be able to stay. One particular time when Rich was at the hospital for a long stay he was bored and loved the ease of shopping on Amazon. Rich ordered a remote-controlled helicopter and from his bed he would fly the helicopter all around his room and down the hall causing havoc.
Rich and Larry had many heart-to-heart conversations traveling to the Joni and Friends complex in Agoura, California meeting Joni Erickson-Tada. A memorable trip for both.
I have viewed the memorial site and video several times. It brought back so many memories. The Thailand send-off lei of Rich was presented by Larry and the heart with the cross stain glass piece, as pictured in his memorial video, is proudly displayed in our entry reminding us of the love Rich and Larry had as Christians in the military and the forever bond.
Sadly, February 2024 was the last time we were able to visit with Rich and Daniela. They were able to spend some time at our home in Tucson and were picking up his new auto that had been “tricked out” with a special driver’s seat that rotated, making it easier for him to get in the driver’s seat.
I want his family to know that we are so sorry that we were unaware of his passing until November 11, which was too late to attend any memorial. Let it be known that we are deeply sorry we were not able to participate.
Larry & Bernice Dizon