Rick passed away around 10:50am this morning. We were all with him for the last hours of his life. He went peacefully and is now no longer in pain.

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Illine & Wayne IP:98.134.200.200 | 04-20-2009 13:20:30 Just know that he is in God's hands now. You have made the best possible choices for him. And remember, we all are here with you and love you. Reply

LeeAnne & Jeff Lind IP:98.16.146.35 | 04-20-2009 13:23:19 We are so sorry for your loss. He's completely healed now. God Bless all of you. Reply

John Quinn - Prayers be with Rick IP:24.208.222.31 | 04-20-2009 13:31:22 Sorry to here of Rick's departure from earth but know he must be in heaven. I had a chance to talk with Rick in Carmel, Indiana and he seemed like a very nice guy. I followed his journey across the US and enjoyed his daily pictures and journal. See you later Rick. John Reply

Tina Wilson - My thoughts are with your fami IP:149.166.198.236 | 04-20-2009 13:53:52 I too have followed Rick's journey from the very beginning and was honored to join him for the fund raiser on Monument Circle. Rick has touched my heart and life like no other. I know he will be sorely missed by all. I wish peace in your family during this difficult time. Reply

Libby Walker IP:63.144.52.99 | 04-20-2009 13:54:33 Valda and family, He fought the good fight... How noble the last few months have been for the cause he believed in. Cherish those memories and you celebrate his life and the time you had together. You're in our thoughts and prayers. Libby Walker Southern Cross Corp. 800-241-5057 x111 Reply

Rich and Pattie - He was a valiant warrior IP:64.12.117.15 | 04-20-2009 14:16:48 Dear Vee and family, Rick was a valiant warrior in the fight for life against cancer and will be remembered by many for his cause. I pray for peace and comfort for you and the family during this time of great loss. In Friendship, Love and Prayers, Rich and Pattie Reply

Tom Lawrence & the Boy Scouts - Always in our prayers! IP:98.221.206.9 | 04-20-2009 14:26:23 Rick served and still serves as an inspiration to my Scouts who know they can set and achieve any goal. Looking back at the blog from one year ago, Rick moved from California to Nevada. Today he went from earth to heaven. God bless you all! Reply

Cheri Wilson - Prayers with Family IP:173.108.192.10 | 04-20-2009 14:41:44 Our prayers are you at the passing of your Father. Reply

Mary and Robert - With Love IP:64.12.117.15 | 04-20-2009 15:36:27 Rick was a man of many dreams and much action. We are so blessed to have know him and spent time with him. Valda, we love you and wish you and the family peace and comfort. Reply

Larissa - wellbeing & healing IP:74.196.102.120 | 04-20-2009 21:47:17 I wish a few words could ease away your sorrow, but of course it can't, nor should it. Rick was a remarkable person, whose lasting legacy is the way he touched the lives of so many, including me. He lives through the grace and beauty of his children and grandchildren, through your love, and spirit. In his passing may you find comfort & sustenance in each other, and please remember that those of us who have followed in your footsteps will be here, wishing for the wellbeing and healing of your family. "The deeper that sorrows carves into your being, the more joy you can contain; When you are sorrowful, look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight." Reply

Butch and Marilyn - Peace IP:66.32.170.62 | 04-20-2009 16:55:04 I've known Rick for so many years. He was so smart, funny, hardworking and quick to help a friend or relative. He will always remain in our thoughts. We wish Valda and the family all the best. Reply

Hal Swartz IP:68.126.183.7 | 04-20-2009 17:03:54 I am not one who can express my feelings well, after 40 years in lawenforcement see it all but not feeling much I can only tell Rick's family that he is missed and will hold a special place within me for the rest of my life till I see him again in the next life where we will probably live one street apart again and still be friends He is my hero. Hal Reply

Bob Hart IP:67.165.189.53 | 04-20-2009 17:31:02 Valda and family, I am sorry for your loss - my heart goes out to you. I only met Rick once but he treated me as a friend from the onset. I followed his remarkable journey across this great nation from start to finish. He made us feel as if we were a part of it. I enjoyed corresponding with Rick and was really touched when he took time to call me. What an example he has set for all of us. Bob Hart and members of the Central Indiana Wilderness Club Reply

MYRON K. IP:4.224.144.175 | 04-20-2009 17:31:13 RICK HAS BEEN SUCH A STRONG EXAMPLE TO FOLLOW. HE GOT ME UP AND WALKING AND SHOWED ME A STRENGTH THAT IS RARE. IN MY HEART, A HERO. IN MY LIFE, A FRIEND. I PRAY THAT THE LORD GIVES YOU, VALDA AND THE REST OF THE FAMILY, GUIDANCE, COUNCIL, AND LOVE. --- MYRON. Reply

Dave and Susie - We're so, so sorry IP:209.43.23.38 | 04-20-2009 19:20:12 We lost a dear, dear friend today and we will miss him so much. Our love and prayers are with you Val, Chris, Syndi and all of Rick's family. God bless you all. We love you. Reply

Pat and family - With heartfelt sympathy IP:64.12.117.15 | 04-20-2009 21:37:32 As we shared the news of Rick's death by phone w/Jeff, Jim & Jon this evening, we recalled many stories...fun-filled "dramas" at GUMC among them. Jon told me Saturday that Rick taught him how to dig footers by hand while he was a "little kid" (with much elaboration) It was a great story for his "little" sons! We will see you here in Indy area. God's richest blessings upon each of you. Reply

Aaron Dietz - Heart IP:97.113.110.166 | 04-20-2009 23:24:30 My heart goes out to the family, and to Rick, who is most definitely free now to keep a watch on everyone. Peace.... Reply

Bonnie and Paul - Gone too soon IP:71.112.39.252 | 04-20-2009 23:39:03 Valda, Chris and Syndi -- We are so sorry to hear that Rick passed away this morning -- these past few months have been such a shock. Please know that we send our love and prayers to you -- and hope you know that you are surrounded by our love. Rick was such an amazing guy and an inspiration -- we can't believe it. Mom and Daddy are here visiting right now. We feel so sad and can't imagine how you are feeling now. With much love to all of you... Reply

Judy (Combs) Nann - He greatest journey has just b IP:205.188.117.15 | 04-21-2009 01:51:22 Val, Chris, and Syndi: What a fantastic journey Rick has just finished. But nothing like the journey he has ahead of him now. Rick is healed and gone home ...where we, as Christians, all look forward to going. He accomplished so much in his lifetime. He will be missed by so many but he will remain in the hearts of family and friends. My prayers are with you all as you deal with his passing. I hope to see you soon. Love you all. Reply

Dan and Donna Smith - Missed IP:66.244.82.2 | 04-21-2009 07:43:10 I have looked up to Rick since I was a young boy. He shared with me, among many other things, his work ethic and his great since of humor. I'm am blessed to have had him and the rest of your family in my life. I will see you here, back home in Indiana. Love you all, Dan Reply

Jan and Chuck Walker - Walking in Heaven now! IP:99.206.91.136 | 04-21-2009 13:26:01 Valda and family... We were very sorry to hear of Rick's passing. We consider the short time we were able to spend with both of you a treasured gift. You both have left a lasting impression on us as every time we see a coin on the ground we now automatically think of you, Rick, and your "summer home of 2008" (otherwise known as "the little white RV" :-) We are sure this "coin thing" won't soon leave us. It will continue to remind us of the need for active participation in the fight to eliminate cancer from this world. Rick made this awareness possible for us. This simple gift from him will continue long after he is gone. We are most grateful that he took the time to help us realize that "the smallest of gestures can make big things happen". He's got his hiking stick and orange hat on in Heaven now. Look out St. Peter and try to keep up! :-) Reply

Mary - Sorry IP:75.27.18.191 | 04-21-2009 16:43:21 I am so sorry for your loss. My husband died 7 years ago of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma so I understand your deep loss. You must feel blessed that you were able to be together for his walk - what a difference you both made. May God bless you and hold you close during this time and for all the days to come. -mary Reply

Ted & Kathie Szelag - May God be with you IP:166.204.0.124 | 04-21-2009 17:09:34 From one Southern Cross couple to another, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. He made a great difference in the fight against cancer with his walk. Our prayers are with you & your family. Ted & Kathie Reply

Brent and Peg Dunn - Our prayers are with you. IP:99.50.131.176 | 04-21-2009 21:30:56 We have so many happy memories from the days of GUMC. We will remember Rick for his great sense of humor and willingness to pitch in and help. Rick was a blessing to many! Our heartfelt sympathy goes to Val, Syndi, Chris, and the rest of the family. May God bless you all with beautiful memories and confidence that Rick is with the Lord. Reply

Pei Lin IP:119.15.251.31 | 04-21-2009 21:35:48 I am sorry for your family's loss. I will send out positive energy to you. Peace... Reply

Dot Johnson - Special People IP:216.235.146.234 | 04-22-2009 00:29:24 You and Rick are very special people. I am honored to have known you and shared some of your experiences in this world. Lean on God, He will comfort you during your time of sorrow. God Bless You... Reply

Jim and Teri - pennies in heaven IP:68.101.48.60 | 04-22-2009 06:21:42 I can see him now grabbing those pennies on the ground in heaven, then raining them down on us so that we'll never forget that even a penny found is helpful in whatever might be your cause to support. There are no words to make things better for those left behind. However, know that you are in our thoughts an prayers during this very difficult transition for you that Rick is making on his newest journey. We love you all, Jim & Teri Reply

Barb Berggoetz - reporter for The Indianapolis IP:74.195.168.143 | 04-28-2009 13:13:22 I had the privilege of interviewing Rick before he left for his Walk Across America and write about him in The Indianapolis Star. I'm so glad he was able to finish this remarkable journey before his passing. But I'm so sorry about his death, Valda. He was such a gracious and caring man. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Barb Reply

Leslie Means - NTV's Good Life - Will always remember... IP:74.195.168.143 | 04-28-2009 13:12:57 I met Rick last summer when he was walking through central Nebraska. He was kind enough to stop for an interview during our show NTV's Good Life. Rick was an inspiration to many of our viewers - as well as myself. I will always remember his positive spirit. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family - and everyone who knew him best. Reply

Anonymous Stranger IP:74.130.225.164 | 04-28-2009 21:53:53 I was inspired by Rick's story and very saddened to hear of his passing. He who inspires one individual, makes a difference in this world. Be comforted in the fact that Rick made a difference to many. I wish you Peace! Reply

Susie - Santa Rosa CA IP:63.192.218.184 | 04-28-2009 22:14:55 I just saw the stories on MSN about the 5 people who walked across the US. Rick's was one of the 5 people. I couldn't help but read his whole blog, so inspiring, heart-warming. I fell in love with both he and you Valda. What wonderful people to take on such an adventure. God be with you in your sorrow on Rick's death. Peace be with you. Reply

Amber - so sorry to hear..... IP:173.74.52.243 | 04-29-2009 00:03:55 i just read Rick's story on MSN and found it very moving. i am extremely sorry to hear the sad news that followed. I know God has blessed him for all he did and will continue to bless your family as well. my grandmother and many relatives have passed on due to cancer so i am greatful to Rick for taking on this cause. my prayers are with you all and thank you, may he rest in peace. Reply

Marisol- Wildomar, CA - You did something that most wo IP:173.58.101.215 | 04-29-2009 01:03:00 I just read the MSN article and it touched me dearly to know that some people strive to accomplish a goal, especially something like walking across the country. Rick you conquered what most people would never do. You are an inspiration for anyone that doesn't believe the impossible is possible. God Bless your family in the healing process, may you smile upon them from heaven. Reply

Eva Neilsen - friend in Leamington IP:74.37.185.241 | 05-15-2009 16:40:07 Valda and family, I am so sorry for your loss. My heart is breaking. I am so grateful that Kade and I got to meet you both that rainy day in Leamington. I am so glad that our paths crossed. I am so happy that you and Rick decided to 'take the road less traveled'. What memories you have. May god bless and comfort you and family. Love , Eva Reply

John Quinn - Friend of Rick's IP:24.208.223.85 | 02-24-2010 21:37:12 It's coming up on a year and I still go back to read his journals. I covered 300 miles in two weeks hiking in North Carolina because, if Rick could cover 15-20 miles per day, then so could I. Miss your comments Rick Reply

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