Friday, May 1, 2026
I just learned of Rich's passing yesterday. I am gutted.
I met Rich when I was 11 and he was 22. We were in the same theatre company, and I was often one of, if not the only child in many of our productions. Rich looked out for me from day 1. He knew I was young and vulnerable among so many adults, and he did everything in his power to ensure that I was always not only safe, but having a good time. We spent years in that community theatre group together and he was always a guide, a mentor, a friend, and a safe place. He kept energy and spirits high with his charm and humour and talent. He knew how much I loved the theatre and even went so far as promising my mother nothing bad would ever happen to me when rehearsals ran late, or had to be held further from home. His kindness during a formative time for me not only helped me develop an understanding of what a safe person looked like, but also allowed me to do the thing I loved to do more than anything. He had such an impact on the person I would become.
Later on when I was in high school, I got to work with Rich at the Sanderson Centre and every day there was like coming home. Everyone should be so lucky to have known such a man in their lives, especially when they're young and learning. I can only hope that my daughters meet someone like him as they grow.
Rich was a person I knew would have my back forever, and I foolishly thought he would always be there, no matter how many years passed. I'm devastated by his loss, by finding out so late, and for realizing too late that time runs out, even for those people who are steadfast.
I don't know if anyone will see this, but grief has to go somewhere, and I find myself just wanting to talk about who he was to me, even decades later. I'm so sorry for his loss, and I will do what I can to keep his memory alive.
Love, Ali Walker
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