Richard Bailey was a wonderful man, so kind and gentle. He had a great sense of humor and I couldn't help but smile when I was around him.
Poppa was beyond smart; yeah, actually a Rocket Scientist. Poppa was a team player and a great teacher, so patient with others. If you did not understand he would explain it to you as many times as it took until you did.
Poppa was compassionate. He did not judge you, yet when he was proud of you he would let you know. Richard Bailey made me want to be a better person.
I am so grateful he came into our lives. I cherish the many wonderful memories of him. Here are just a few. When Poppa took my mom, my sister Laurie and myself with him to his 50th alumni reunion at Cal-Poly. We had a blast!
This last Christmas it was such an amazing gift to spend Christmas and New Years with my mom and Poppa. We went to Apple Hill and cut down our tree in the snow. We stopped at Boa Vista Orchards to warm-up with hot cider by the fire. Poppa with a full beard, red knit cap and scarf looked just like Saint Nick. Today these memories are mixed with tears and smiles. I am comforted by the thought that Poppa is no longer in pain and that I will see him again sometime. Until then I will miss him. Love Shal