Memories of Richard
Messages
From Ju 26 February 2011 Dearest Ricky, Thinking of you today on your birthday and missing you muchly. Love always, Ju xxx
From Ju
21 December 2010
Dear Ricky, It's been four years since we lost you. I miss seeing you, I miss hearing you. Without you, there is a gaping hole in our family which can never be filled. Love you lots, Ju x
From Pam & Brian
16 December 2010
Four years have passed since you left us, Ricky, and not a day goes by without us talking or thinking about you. You were a son-in-law in a million and so dearly loved by us both. You will never be forgotten, Ricky, you are far too special.
Pam and Brian xxx
From Ju & Paul
14 December 2010
Thinking of Richard on this sad anniversary
From Ju
26 March 2010
Three years have passed since you left us. I miss you just as much now, in fact your absense seems even larger as each year goes on.
I love looking at your picture, with you smiling out at me. Every night I light a special candle for you. I will do this forever and your influence and life will always be a major part of the family.
Love you Ricky
Ju xxxx
From Ju
26 February 2008
Dear Ricky
I am thinking of you on your birthday as I do every day. Our family is not the same without you. I hate it that you're not here and that your life was stolen from you.
I will always love and miss you, Ricky.
Ju xxx
From Wendy
14 December 2007
Dearest Ricky
A year. So long and yet so short. So much has happened and you were not there to share it.
Dan and Emma have a beautiful daughter, Sophie Louise. I tell her all about Great Uncle Richard and how brave you were. I remember how excited you were when I told you Emma was pregnant. You said, 'A new life to carry on.'
You were always so positive and caring.
Love and miss you always.
Wen xxx
From Ju
14 December 2007
Dear Ricky
A year's gone by and I still can't believe you are gone. I love to think about the good times, remember your gorgeous smile and twinkly eyes.
I won't ever forget the suffering you endured in those last months - you were so brave and I will forever admire your dignity and courage.
I love you Ricky and miss you so much - our family can never be complete without you.
I'm looking after Paul like you told me to.
All my love, Ju
xxx
From Paul Lewis
14 December 2007
One year after you died and still no day goes by without us thinking of you, without someone saying 'Ricky would have loved this', 'If only Ricky were here', 'What would Ricky Have done?' Your impact on people's lives was amazing. Your capacity to be positive, fun-loving and tolerant was an example to all who knew you and made us all love you. Life goes on but there is a big hole that cannot be filled. You are greatly missed.
Love Paul
From Wendy Winsall
13 April 2007
It was Daniel and Emma's wedding on the 30th March. It was a fabulous day and you would have been so proud of your girls. They all looked beautiful. We missed you so much, it was the first family celebration without you in 30 years. How I would have given anything for you to have shared that day.
Loving you and missing you every day.
Wen xxxxxx
Richard would have been 50 on 26 February 2007
From Pam & Brian
Dearest Ricky
Today would have been your 50th Birthday and we are missing you like crazy.
We had been so looking forward to sharing this milestone in your life,
but it was not to be.
You would have been so proud of your lovely Megs in her show, she was
doing it all for you.
Always in our thoughts Ricky,
Love Pam & Brian xxxx
From Becky
Darkness where once there was light
Silence where once there was laughter
Tears where once there were smiles
Sadness where once there was joy
Grief fills me, takes me over
Strange how your absence is ever present
Every night dark thoughts consume me
Praying for knowledge of your safety
The depths of sadness is ever growing
There is no end to grief
I miss you every day
Happy Birthday Uncle Ricky
Love Becky xxx
From Julia
Ricky -
Today’s your 50th Birthday -
But no party, no presents, no champagne
We celebrate your life, but without you
by our side.
You gave so much yet were robbed of a future.
It makes no sense, it never will
Today’s your 50th birthday
And recalling memories will have to do.
Thank you for all the laughs, hugs, advice and love you showed me over the last
30 years.
Thinking of you today and every day.
Juey
xxxxxxxxx
From Wendy
2007 was to be the year for our big 50. a time to celebrate and have fun. now I shall have to party without you. but you will stay forever young and forever have a place in my heart.
miss you every day. Love Wen xxxxx
From Paul
You were at my 50th celebration. I'm so sad that I won't be at yours but I will be thinking of you. You remain one of the great influences in my life. Your tolerance, compassion, bravery, good humour and your compassion for others will never be forgotten. You live on in all our hearts. Love Paul
Memories
From Julie Burns
22 January 2007
About a year ago
My friend Ric was diagnosed with cancer,
It was like a clash of thunder creeping through the sky,
My friends and i prayed the lord to heal him through,
Ric's spirit will never fade
Because he is like an angel watching over us,
At the end we had to say good bye
But we all knew that he was raised up on eagle's wings
And now through these days
we hear him
soaring through the skies like a little butterfly
"And Ric, don't forget we're your friends, YOUR BEST FRIENDS"
sadly missed by "me Julie"
From Daniel Owton
17 January 2007
Richard- Thanks for being there in the good times and helping in the bad times. I enjoyed and still miss all our corridor conversations and office dreams. Above all thanks for being a "top bloke" and a true friend.
From Julia Lewis
10 January 2007
Ricky – been thinking about you (as I do every day). I was remembering when the family went to Florida and I’d sorted out the place where we were staying. When I arrived at the villa, you were already there. As I came in you just held open your arms, gave me your big twinkley smile and said ‘Ju – Wow’. We had a big hug - you were so pleased with the villa and I felt really good that you were so happy. Miss you more than words can say. Juey xxxxxxx
From Ruth Watson
3 January 2007
Some of my memories: being picked up from school in the Morris Minor, it was always so clean - me in the back, Lyn up front. In the bike years, you in your leathers, Lyn and I making Valentines cards for our boyfriends (hers was much better!) Your joy of tinkering with engines and all that went with them, your happy, satisfied face when the job was done, and you being a protective and caring husband and father.
My regrets - for there always are some, that I don't have more great memories.
I had the most delightful conversation with Richard two weeks before the end. Somehow, despite the fact that we both knew it was probably our last conversation, it was one of the happiest I have had with him. I put the phone down with a happy smile on my face having had a delightful experience. I don't know how he did it. What a special man, and always great to look at! Thanks Richard.
From AJ McLeish
28 December 2006
Ricky, so many admirable achievements and i have never had one bad word to say about you. in my eyes this makes a true legend. i have so many fond memories of you and your wonderful family, i always felt privileged to be part of a family gathering when you were there. you had the ability to make the best of a bad situation and to keep everyone going, even when your health was that "bad situation". such a caring, kind, loving father and always a man i had great respect for.
you always made me feel welcome to your home, your family and your help. you have always been the "cool" adult in the family and most of the time i can't be sure if you made me feel older or i just thought you were a big kid, either way we had some great times. i really do hope that you have gone to a special place and that Lynda and the girls can build strength from the tragic loss with all of the wonderful memories from your amazing life.
i'm struggling to get my head around the loss of such a special character, so how the girls are coping, i do not know. i will never forget the last words you said to me: "alright mush!!" for me this just typified your personality. this last visit to see you meant a lot to me and seeing you, lynny and the girls made me very happy.
thanks for letting me be a part of your life, you always were, still are, and will carry on being a true legend in my eyes.
all the best aj xxxxx
From Colin and Julia Lewis
23 December 2006
No relation, but part of our family! The extended Banbury, Gregory, Matthews, Thomas, Duffill, Lewis tribe. We have always been so close to the extended Batchelor ‘tribe’. At parties, weddings, christenings, dances et al, there has so often been an amazing presence, you Richard with your smile and your interest in everyone’s welfare, we will miss you so much. God Bless.
From Jude Herod
22 December 2006
I was lucky enough to sit next to Richard for several years in Southampton at work and we had many chats during that time. Luckily there was a small wall dividing our desks so his regular trouser changing was hidden from view. By being himself, a very friendly, cheery and comforting presence, Richard helped me through those years which were a difficult time for me. Typically, when I saw him more recently to tell him how much he had meant to me, he underplayed his part.
His favourite topic of conversation was always his family and my heart goes out to them.
From Chris Reynolds
21 December 2006
Richard and I rode our push bikes to work. We travelled in from opposite directions, but quite often our paths in the morning crossed at the junction of the Millbrook and Redbridge roads. We would ride the last half mile side by side chatting. It's daft but I still look out of the corner of my eye for Richard on his bike, when I get to Redbridge Road. He was a smashing bloke and I will miss him a lot.
From Steve Woolcott
20 December 2006
Dear Richard, (moosh!)
Just a few words to say how sadly you'll be missed.
From the laughs, jokes and general merriment we used to share, to our many chats about Mini's and how to make them go faster!
I never got to take you for a spin in mine, once I'd eventually finished it...there were many times you would give me a good ribbing about how long it was taking to rebuild it!
You were a very gentle, kind man who always had time for others and always had that cheeky grin on your face!
I know you were very brave throughout your illness and this just proves what a special man you were.
You will be leaving a large void in the heart of everyone who knew you and who's life you came into.
God bless you Richard, rest in peace matey.
From Martin Griffin
20 December 2006
Richard was one of those people you never forgot once you met him. He always had time to listen. My thoughts are with Lynda and family.
From Chris Dudley
20 December 2006
Although it makes me sad to know you are not here.
The world has been a richer place to have met you do not fear.
I didn't know you well but liked you none the less.
Happy to have met you Richard Goodnight and God bless.
From Mark Wilson
20 December 2006
Richard was always kind hearted and helpful. Nothing ever seemed too much trouble for him, and he always smiled, even in the face of adversity. He would always lighten the tone and make work more enjoyable. Richard will be missed by all his colleagues. One of his ways which showed him as such an outstanding person was his ability to challenge without causing offence. He was always considerate of the feelings of others. Richard's openness, honesty, conscientious approach to life, and good nature were an example to us all. The world is a poorer place without him, but so much richer for the time he was here.
My thoughts are with all his family.
From Sudesh Bains
20 December 2006
Richard was such a lovely bloke. It was a pleasure to have worked with him on several projects over the years. He had a great sense of humour and we had a lot of laughs together. I'll miss him tremendously and remember him with great affection.
From Angela and Martin Everett
20 December 2006
When I think of Richard, I think of his big smile and twinkley eyes.
He always had time for everyone and interested in anything you had to say. While cutting his hair we compared notes on bringing up kids, World issues, Finances, And generally putting the world to right. He always enjoyed his hair cut especially the massage with his shampoo. When my 3 sons had problems with their bikes they knew Richard would know how to fix them.
He was so proud of his 3 girls, We often passed each other doing our taxi duties! He always seemed to be building something or some project on the go.
Richard will always be remembered my many people. He was liked by many and will be sadly missed, But that smile will NEVER be forgotten!
Angela and Martin Everett x
From Pete Rodaway
20 December 2006
Richard, my fond memories of you go back a long way to when we were draughtsmen together at the Ordnance Survey. In those far off days the talk was always of bikes and birds. It wasn't until later that we discovered we had another connection through the Batchelor family. I will never forget your trademark cheery grin and will always remember your genuine interest in people and your caring, thoughtful nature. You will be missed Mate, one of the good guys.
From Dave Murray
20 December 2006
Sausage Sandwiches : Rich
Fifteen years ago, I was a new starter, assigned to work with you.
You welcomed me with a smile and a lecture on the wonders of sausage sandwiches.
(Scoffing 3 sausage sandwiches in 45 seconds is probably still some sort of record).
You were supportive both at work and outside. I remember you sharing the thrill of buying my first car, helping me service it.
Your enthusiasm made it a pleasure to be/work with you.
I shall not miss you dropping your trousers, in the office at 4.30pm every day, changing into your cycling home gear, but we will miss you.
Thank you.
From Becky Crouch-Lewis
19 December 2006
Uncle Ricky was kind, loving and selfless. He was a wonderful father, loving husband and devoted friend. He was always interested in what I had to say and showed real delight at me finding a job, even though, at the time, he was going through such hardship. Throughout his illness he still had time for other people. His humour and smile will live with me forever. Thank you for being such a brilliant uncle, you are irreplaceable. I love you lots and will miss you.
From Nolan Metcalfe
19 December 2006
I counted Richard not just as a colleague but as a friend. We shared a love of all things military especially aircraft and both of us joined the Aviation Group which met at Lyndhurst community centre once a month. I last saw Richard on a visit from France and we spent a few hours reminiscing over the times we had working together in the research department. He always had a ready smile and we would call each other `Mush', he was a superb friend to be with and I will miss him.
He was a `bloody nice bloke'
From Reg Savage [Design Office]
19 December 2006
Thanks for the laughs.I always looked forward to working with Richard, in the many years that I knew him I always found him to be exactly the same regardless of what was going on around him, or how busy he was. The work pattern was always the same, we would start by having a laugh and giggle, we would then discuss the work that was required and then on completion of the task, days or weeks later, Richard would make contact to thank you for your efforts.
Truly will be missed.
From Dave Hibbert
19 December 2006
Although I left Mullards/Philips/GEC Marconi/BAE some time ago, I worked with Richard for about twelve years and remember him very clearly. It was the ready smile and the infectious laugh which made it impossible not to like him. He was always generous with help and advice, and a person I shall always remember as a true gentleman.
My heart goes out to Lyn and the girls at this difficult time.
From Norman Clark
19 December 2006
Richard was one of the nicest blokes I have ever known. I passed many a happy moment with him sharing a passion as we did for motorbikes. We all booked up for a ‘Cadbury Team’ motorcycle racing day once – the Clark brothers and Richard on a weekend jaunt to the Cadwell Park race track. Needless to say, he showed us all up with his skill on the track! But what I remember most was the ridiculous grin we all had on our faces when we returned to the changing room at the end of the day. This was a wordless acknowledgement that we had all just shared one of the best days ever. He burned bright. My thoughts go out to Lynda and the kids.
From Dave Bishop (occasional workmate and corridor friend)
19 December 2006
Richard always brought a smile and laughter with him. I thank him for the fun, kindness, energy and clever things he did everyday at work. I never knew Richard outside of work but imagine he had a terrific sense of how to enjoy life to the full. Everytime I see a smile I'll remember Richard and his slightly wicked sense of humour and try to pass it on to the next man. For sure he'll be fondly remembered by all that knew him.
From Liz Whitehorn
19 December 2006
I will always remember the many conversations I had with Richard and the constant source of amusement every time he found out I was going on holiday again, it was always the first thing he asked. He was a lovely, lovely person, always had time for his friends and colleagues and always had time to stop and talk. I shall miss seeing his friendly smilingface and feel so very saddened that he is not with us any more. His illness was so bravely borne and my sincere and deepest sympathies go out to his family. I hope in time they can find some comfort in the happy memories of Richard as he brought so much happiness to others.
Take care, Richard, wherever you may be, and thank you for being one of the finest people I have ever come across in my working life.
From Brian Matthews
19 December 2006
Dear Rich
We've known each other since we were in our early twenties,and you have been the most kind, loyal, and decent friend anyone could wish for. You were always fun to be around, and were kind and thoughtful to everyone you met. Nothing was too much trouble for you, and we all looked forward to chatting to you. You were always keen to ask how we were, always there to help and make things easier. Your inherent empathy made you a natural engineer, able to fix anything! and to cope with the most taxing of situations with a smile. We have prevailed in the most difficult of situations, always knowing we could rely on you completely.
You have been the most loyal, loving Husband and Father, and have the most wonderful girls as your rightful reward, their love for you can be seen by us all. You have been more like a brother than a friend. You have been so brave in your approach to your illness, always being positive and thinking of, and asking about others. It is because of all these qualities that you will be so fondly remembered, and deeply missed by all who knew you. We will remember you at your smiling and happy best, often in our thoughts, always in our hearts. Thanks for being "our Rich".
From Raman Mistry
18 December 2006
I had known Richard for a long time, as a friend, a confidant and as a colleague that was a joy to be with. He was always willing to help; always was a source of humour and fun but also commanded respect through his natural ability to solve problems. I shall miss him dearly. Take care my friend, wherever you are.
From John J Clark
18 December 2006
Whilst most people regard fellow employees as colleagues, I always regarded Richard as a friend,Not just a colleague. My sympathies to his family and friends. He will be sorely missed.
From Paul Lewis
17 December 2006
I always looked forward to seeing my brother-in-law Ricky. His interest and sympathy for other people, his curiosity about the world and his ability to see the funny side of things always made life seem a bit brighter.
One of my favourite memories was a family holiday to Florida in the summer, when he, his father-in-law Brian, brother-in-law Andy and I went off in our shorts and t-shirts early one morning to play golf. We were pleased but a little puzzled at how cheap it was until we got there and found the course swarming with mosquitoes. We spent most of the time slapping each other's legs like German folk dancers. Needless to say, Ricky led the laughter.
When I went through a difficult time in my career, he was not only genuinely concerned but offered great reassurance.
I felt privileged to spend a lot of time with Ricky in these last few months and savoured every moment of our conversations. He bore his illness stoically and continued to care about others and brighten the room with that unforgettable twinkling smile. It showed what a brave as well as compassionate man he was.
It feels like a light has gone out.
From Lisa, Tom, Louisa & Georgina Thomas
17 December 2006
Our dear friend Ricky, I have known you since I was 16 and you were always happy, cheerful and had a smile for everyone. When I visited you in hospital you were still asking about all our family and were genuinely interested in everyone. You were a lovely, kind, caring man and we will miss you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your beautiful family, dearest Lyn, and the girls, Laura, Megan and Eleanor. God Bless you.
Love from Lisa, Tom, Louisa and Georgina. xx
From Brian Batchelor
17 December 2006
To a dear son-in-law and good friend Ricky, who played such a large part in my life.
I remember one time on holiday we layed on our backs on the grass while you pointed out different stars to me, and then were able to show me the space station passing overhead, such a thrill!
No need to worry any more about my car tyres Ricky, as Andy will be taking me to Micheldever next week!
I have so enjoyed all the times we have spent together and I will always miss your wonderful company.
With Love, Brian
From Pam Batchelor
17 December 2006
Dearest Richard
I couldn’t have wished for a more loving son-in-law, so helpful so caring. When I first learnt of Brian’s illness you were the person I turned to, you settled me down with your calming and loving words.
Your cheeky grin, your twinkling blue eyes were such a large part of my life, you were always so pleased to see me, nothing was too much trouble for you.
You have been part of my life for 31 years, we have shared some wonderful family holidays, and have such great memories.
I will never ever forget you Ricky, you will always have a special place in my heart.
How are we all going to manage without you.
With my love, Pam xxx
From Wendy Winsall
17 December 2006
It was an honour to care for you over the last few weeks and to be holding your hand when you finally gave up the struggle.
You were brave and dignified throughout your terrible illness and never said why me? Your compassion for other people was humbling.
I shall miss your twinkling eyes and cheeky smile and our special jokes, the way you listened and never judged.
The girls will always have our love and stability throughout their lives, and you live on for us through them.
Your loving and heartbroken sister-in-law, Wen
From Julia Lewis
16 December 2006
RickySince I was 14, you’ve been a brother to me. You have been so generous and loving and nothing has ever been too much trouble for you.
Over the years we’ve had so many laughs together and in recent months we’ve cried together.
I remember when you took me on the back of your new motorbike – even though I didn’t really understand about leaning the same way as you!
It was a privilege to know you and to love you. Life will never be the same again because our family now has a great big hole in it, but so much of you is in your wonderful girls. I cherish them all and I love being part of their lives.
I love you Ricky … thank you for being you.
Your devoted sister-in-law, Ju xxxx
From Andy Winsall
16 December 2006
Always a pleasure, never a chore.