Richard F. Swank

It is with profound sadness that I share the passing of Richard Foster Swank, who left us shortly before 4:00pm ET on Sunday, October 27, 2024 at the age of 77 in Bedford, MA (born Wednesday, June 04, 1947). Rick was a man of immense humor and experience, cherishing every moment and every person possible.

NEWS FLASH:

Rick will be running the 2025 Bank of America Chicago Marathon on Sunday, October 12!

Rick will be honored by a currently anonymous runner, as they don Rick’s photo and namesake during the marathon. A part of their Fallen Hero Match for Survivors program, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS; www.taps.org) pairs runners with surviving military families to ensure that loved ones’ sacrifice will never be forgotten.

According to their site (taps.org/teamtaps/fallenheromatch), “Team TAPS runners who are matched with fallen heroes proudly wear the names and photos of the service members on their Team TAPS singlets during races. The runners also share stories of these fallen heroes with friends and family as they fundraise for Team TAPS.”

A very special thank you to all who were able to attend and participate in Rick’s Celebration of Life (Bedford V.A. Medical Center; Saturday, November 02, 2024) and military burial service (Leavenworth National Cemetery; Friday, December 13, 2024). It is obvious that Rick so easily touched everyone he met, even with only a single meeting. May we all be so inspired to transcend the confines of society and propriety to simply smile, laugh, and share life- together.

And then get some ice cream!

Please enjoy and contribute to the memorial / tribute Websites, stories, photos, and videos below.