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 Long Beach and our class lost a pillar, yesterday, January 27, 2023. For those that are not aware, Richard Waide, who died of cancer, owned Easy Does It bookstore and gifts, on E. Broadway in Long Beach. He leaves behind daughters, grandkids, great grandkids, and countless friends he influenced.
Richard had begun drinking daily, while still in high school. He got sober and became a leading light in 12-step programs, beginning in 1984. He opened his bookstore in 1997. It was a store focused on 12-step programs, providing reading, greeting cards, sobriety chips and the warmth and support of its proprietor.
Richard's Facebook page had an initial post, about his death, yesterday. One day later, it had 381 comments. Here is a sampling:
“He was so authentic and real - what a mensch! Lost a brother and fan - love on the daughter and sister   ”
“Richard and I go way back from high school. We partied and we were brothers in sobriety. I will never forget him. May God rest his soul. Love you. Praying for his family.”
 “This man played a huge part in my recovery. He didn’t tell me what to do, he showed me how to grow through service. I will miss you my friend!!!!!! ”
“Richard was a part of my sobriety since I was new. Always enjoyed our talks over the years and patronizing his humble business. My deepest sympathies and condolences.  ”
“I know there will be many sharing here about their feelings - Richard was sweet amazing servant in our fellowship that I watched for over 35 years - met him in month one. Will not forget this humble guy. Blessed to know him and love him. My thoughts go out to all those that will miss that smile, especially his family. God bless”
 “Rest in Paradise Richard  You always had a way of making me feel seen and heard. You were my first grand sponsor before I knew what that meant. Your smile and hugs will be missed ”
“Wow, I can't believe it! such a big part of my life to visit his store. I hope it stays open as a tribute to Richard. so much love - just speechless and shocked with this terrible loss. Thank you for everything Richard”
“Thank you my brother. my sponsor, my friend. You will always mean the world to me and my family. Julie (my wife says thank you as well) You saved my life.”
There are new posts, already populated with remembrances of Richard and the influence he had on their lives. We will post if a Celebration of Life is announced.
To hear a talk that Richard gave, click here.
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Gary Phelps
Allene S Raphael
I remember him from school and hanging out with mutual friends. May he Rest in Peace.
Roger Hassenpflug
The invitation at the bottom of the quotes to listen to one of Richard's talks is well worth the time.
Robin Alpert (Avedesian)
I didn't know Richard. I didn't know tons of people at Millikan. But I just read what Roger Hassenpflug said about it being worth the time to listen to Richard's speech. So I did. It brought smiles and tears as I listened to his story of what it took to get sober, to get to where he eventually did in his life. By his own admission, he should have/would have died so very long ago were it not for the one person who reached out to him when he needed it. Along with Roger, I would encourage and urge you to listen to Richard's 1 hour speech. It's mesmerizing. It's heartbreaking as well as heartwarming. It reminds us that we all have stories to tell....especially in the almost 55 years since we graduated high school. What do we really know about any of us? I won't be able to attend the reunion but would love to hear more stories about the lives we've led in all these years....the good and the bad.
Jan Wagner (Kirner)
I didn't know Richard. I wish I had. I just listened to his 1 hour Recovery speech. There is a link to listen as part of this Millikan site. He was a remarkable man, giving so much to others. He lived a life of service. What a wonderful man who dedicated his life helping others.
Diane Kristine Liggett
Celebration of Life for Richard Waide
The celebration will be held at Cornerstone Church on 4/29/23, beginning at 10 AM. Reception will take place immediately following.
1000 N. Studebaker Rd.
Long Beach, 90815
Enter church at the North-East entrance.
In order to count for food requirements, please RSVP by 4/10/23 to richardwmemorial@gmail.com
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Hospital & Institutions fund of Long Beach at Harbor Area Central Office, 3450 E. Spring St. Suite 109, L.B., CA 90806-2461 or Easy Does It Books & Gifts, 3517 E. Broadway, L.B., CA 90803
Donald Brenneman
Don Brenneman(Coen) Dick was a good friend ever since Millikan, I remember one day that Geoff Evans myself and Dick got 4 box seats right above 3rd base for an afternoon Angels game, since we had an extra ticket we decided to purchase a tapper that held a case of beer, since we had a ticket they let us in with it and it lasted till the 7th inning! One of many good times....Namaste
Louise Elaine Nuss (Gardner)
I first met Dick in 4th grade at Cubberly Elementary School.
He was Alway good at Kick ball. Was in several classes at Marshall junior high and Millikan high school.. he was always a super nice guy to me. So sorry to hear about his passing.
Michael Lipson
wow. whether you knew Richard or not (i didn't), everyone should listen to the recorded version of the talk that he gave.
Marlene Ocon (Towns)
I am so saddened to hear of Richard’s passing. I knew Richard as “Dick” in high school, such a likeable, friendly person. After graduation, I ran into Richard several times (usually sitting on a bar stool). It pains me to know that Richard had such a destructive involvement with alcohol. My greatest regret is that I missed the opportunity to visit with Richard at the Millikan High School 50th Reunion and to hear of his miraculous transformation. At this writing I am listening to his testimony, “Miracle on the River.” I hear such a gifted speaker, an incredibly intelligent man, a kind, generous, and good, good soul. I have many family members that struggle with drugs and alcohol and will pray for the opportunity to share Richard’s powerful testimony and his path to sobriety. It is so encouraging to know Richard’s life was so full after sobriety; that he was profoundly loved as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, friend, mentor, and counselor! As I read through the numerous comments on his Facebook page, I am deeply touched by his legacy; his many accomplishments and the lasting imprint he made on so many lives. Well done Richard!