Daniel Schmitz
In 1997, as a 17-year-old exchange student, I had the privilege of spending several formative months with the Beckhart family. Since this time Rick was like a father figure in my life. His positive outlook, deep care for others, and his ever “glass half full” spirit shaped me in ways I still carry today. He taught me that while life isn’t always fair, we can always choose how we meet it.
I cherish so many memories: our deep conversations while driving endless hours in the car or while doing the dishes every night, trips to the theater, our memorable RV-trip across the US and family celebrations together like my own wedding in Germany, Rick’s and Sherry’s golden anniversary in New York and —most recently— his 80th birthday and Thanksgiving in 2023.
Rick was a remarkable man whose kindness and wisdom touched countless lives. I will forever be grateful for the time I shared with him and for the lasting influence he had on my life.
