I first met Richard at a DTLA journalism career conference. I was finishing my MA at USC Annenberg and looking for a job, and there he was at LAT’s METPRO booth, an imposing figure with his beard and impossibly upright posture. Any intimidation I might have felt dissipated as soon as he shook my hand and flashed that warm smile of his. That meeting changed the trajectory of my life. Richard served as my mentor for years after, even after I left LAT and journalism altogether. I am glad I had a chance to tell him a number of times over the years that “Richard, I don’t know if you realize how much of an impact you had on my life.” He simply smiled and asked what else was going on in my life. That was Richard, always gracious and always interested in you. He was a true gem of an editor, mentor and human being who left a long legacy of service and… good vibes. We miss you Richard.
Daniel Yi
Leave a Reply