Unless you're related to Richard, you may not realize that he drowned when he was two years old. Yes, he drowned. While the family lived in Oklahoma, Richard wandered away from his parents and ended up in the creek pictured below. In April of 1975, heavy rains caused area rivers and creeks to flood. In fact, so much rain had fallen that spring, that farmers had fallen behind with planting their crops....which would explain why Paul & Lynette were busy planting when Richard wandered off.
When they discovered him in the creek, he was floating under the surface of the water, and he wasn't breathing. Paul was not trained in CPR, but prayed and asked God to help him~
It seemed a long struggle with death while Richard very slowly "came to", and I'm so thankful God gave Richard back to his parents.
My reasons are very selfish ones of course. I never would have been blessed to have met and married him. :)
Richard attended several different schools in his lifetime.... but this is where he attended Kindergarten (Guthrie, Oklahoma)~ :)
Richard also attended a Christian School in Guthrie... he's the cute little guy on the right~ :)
I don't remember what the trophy was for... a spelling bee?
It wasn't until Richard was in his mid 20's that he decided to go to college and pursue an Accounting degree.
So... school took a little longer with working full-time at the Post Office, and caring for a wife and (eventually) three children. :)
After much time and effort (7 years), Richard received his Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, in 2007. We were all so very proud of him for conquering that mountain!!!
Richard finished his schooling the same year Antonin graduated from PreK, and we enjoyed a celebration at our home in Belleville, IL :) :)
Sweet memories~
