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Geoffrey Serata posted a condolence
Saturday, January 4, 2025
Q: How did you meet Richard?
A: I met Richard way back when we were pretty rowdy. I met him at Big John's. Reds was the first Christian I can remember meeting, I was as far from the Lord as anyone could be, back in those days.
We liked fishing among other forms if recreation. There was on day, I wish I could remember the year, 1982 (maybe?), the we followed through with our plans to go fishing. The three of us, Richard, Chicken Rempher, and me headed to Yellow Bird's Marina in Fortescue. We got there before the marina opened to be first out. We took turns being captain and it was Chickie's turn. I'm not sure if those boats were 14 or 16 feet with a small outboard. I knew the Bay pretty well but was still immature often drinking and carrying on...being foolish.
Our plan was to ride the outbound tide to Flounder Alley and hook flat fish. We got ready and the marina opened. Yellow Bird (I never knew his name) asked where we planned to fish and I perked up and told him, and he said there were lots of fish closer...
He brought a boat down the tracks and we were off.
It was a beautiful summer day and we found those flat fish (flounder)! We were drifting over a patch between Miah Maul and 14 foot. We were fishing 2-rods each with top & bottom rigs, minnows and a squid pennant on the bottom and shedder and a pennant on top. It was working. We were catching double headers (fish on both top and bottom) and having both poles bent while we were trying to keep up. It was the best day fishing I ever had, and I think I can speak for Richard and Chickie. Now back in those days, our sizing system was placemats and doormats. Anything smaller than a placemat (for the kitchen table), we called coasters and tossed them back to get bigger. We were filleting fish because we were running out of cooler space. That's the problem you want to have.
Somewhere in all of the commotion the bay laid down like glass. I remember old timers who work the bay (baymen) all their lives talk about a warning sign. The bay might lay down (get calm) and turn to glass (that smooth) in the evening but was a warning sign during the day. They went on and described little circular patterns from wisps of air meaning a squall was building.
I told the others we needed to move in closer to shore, as we were maybe 5 miles out of Fortescue. Now, it's hard to tell anyone to stop fishing when it's that good. But when they saw me reel in my gear and tie it to the boat they knew I was serious. We were motoring back past Miah Maul still fighting the out running tide, but not fighting a growing head wind. I never wore a life preserver on those trips (arrogant and foolish) but I put one on and the whole mood shifted as the sky was darkening. Thunder and lightning tore through the eire darkness at mid day, probably earlier than noon. Then the rain started blowing sideways in the gale force winds.
Only by the hand of God had we made to False Egg Island Point. The 12-15 oot seas were boiling around us. When we rose up on one the view was terrifying! In the trough, all you could see was the world boiling around us. The wind was shearing off the tops of the waves, the term white caps fails to describe the threat. We bounced up and down like a helpless cork, barely able to overcome the opposing forces with our little outboard (10-15 hp?). Chickie was n the back bench, tiller in hand, Richard was in the bow seat and I was in the middle facing aft. The tide was out and there was a lot of meadow grass identify False Egg Is. Point. We were fighting to get inside of that shoal because it looked like death was waiting for us nearby.
We were trying to keep the bow in the wind to keep from getting swamped while being tossed and pushed when we hit bottom and the prop ground dirt and stalled the outboard. Somebody yelled grab the oars and I started rowing. The forces were greater than I could battle with oars. Richard grabbed the anchor and threw it into the wind from the bow of the boat. The Devil was trying to pull us into a salty grave and that anchor bounced bottom as we were getting to drift out past False Egg Is. Point.
I'm not sure if the hail started before the anchor hooked bottom but I was never so glad when that anchor live got taught. There we were, still a mile or so off shore with quarter size hail flying sideways and us with cutoffs and shoes.
That hail was brutal! I looked at Richard, the anchor line, and back at Richard. The wind was so loud that we had to holler to each other. The hail was chopping down the meadow grass and there was only one place to hide from it...and I jumped out of the boat on the downwind side, hugging the side of the boat watching the hail fly overhead. I could hear them yelling for me and I popped my head up and back into the hail and said get out of the hail!
There we were in the water during this intense storm hiding from the hail. Ten or twenty minutes later, or maybe a lifetime, the sun was shining and the wind was gone.
Our boat was now about 12 feet above the waterline, and more than 3/4 full of water.
We were laughing and crying, hugging one another and kissing the ground. It took a while for the boat to drain after we pulled the plug. We had to decide if we wanted to fish some more or head back to the marina and we all agreed to go back.
When we approached the marina it was very bizarre. There were boats like ours that were beached because the storm prevented Yellow Bird from using the trolley. Several of those boats had the transom ripped out of them by the pounding surf.
There was an older man arguing with Yellow Bird because he lost all of his fishing gear that he left in the boat...
We pulled up, alive, and with all of our gear. If we lost anything, it was our egos. That was the most humbling thing I ever experienced. I never felt so small. Yellow Bord was crying as he approached us saying that he had called the coast guard to rescue us but the storm was so bad they gad to delay.
*I didn't know God in those days. If I gad died, I would've gone to Hell.
I think about how God provided that boat (and everything) to preserve us from drowning and then as a shield from the hail.
Of the three of us, Richard was the first to be Born Again. I often wonder how the Lord used Reds to influence others. I was slower to come to the Lord's family. I was Born Again 11/02/2002 after moving to Montana.
There's a story (historical) in the Bible about Jesus calming the storm. I believe that He did exactly what the Scriptures say thar He did. But there's a principle I want to share from the Book of Daniel and Nebuchadnezzar's firey furnace. Sometimes, God will let us go through storms or firey trials, but He is always there with us. I look back to that fishing trip and know with complete confidence that the Lord intervened on our behalf. We didn't deserve to live that day. But God, who is forever faithful was merciful and saved us. There is a judgment day coming when every word and every deed will be weighed. I hope that you are found to be a friend of God on that day.
Jesus is our provision for protection from that coming judgment. More than that, He desires for us to respond to His love for us. My salvation is a gift that He provided. Jesus wants to share that gift with each one of you.
I never gad the chance to fellowship with Richard or with Reds. I look forward to seeing them again!
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Natalie Rowland lit a candle
Tuesday, August 23, 2022
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Today I was looking at pictures of my old elementary school Olivet and wanted to see what my favorite staff were up to now. So sad to see him pass away. Every child at that school loved him. We would always ask “Mr. Rich are you rich?” With a smile on his face he would reply with he’s getting there. Eventually he would tell us he is and he’s just working there for fun. Now I am a junior in college and still remember him and the positive energy he held. Rest In Peace, may God look over you.
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Cindy Lipich Lewis posted a condolence
Wednesday, March 4, 2020
Richard first touched my life in 1972. He was shy, at that time, and just so cute. Over the years we were good friends, sometime friends and always there for each other (especially as teens).
Over the years, as often happens, we went our seperate ways but Richard was, and will remain, a treasured part of my heart and life!
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Bill Messick lit a candle
Sunday, March 6, 2016
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This light shines like the light you lit in our lives, which can not be put out. You have touched so many people. May your light shine through us, and continue to touch others through our lives. Our memories of you will live inside our hearts. Miss you Brother-In-Law.
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Evalyn Vineyard lit a candle
Sunday, March 6, 2016
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Evalyn Vineyard posted a condolence
Sunday, March 6, 2016
so sorry for your loss Rena ,we all loved Rich and his smile will really be missed Prayers to you and his family love you
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Mike and Mary Weldon posted a condolence
Sunday, March 6, 2016
So sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you.
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billy werkheiser posted a condolence
Saturday, March 5, 2016
my name is Billy Werkheiser was a very good friend to him sorry here
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Gary San Miguel Pete posted a condolence
Saturday, March 5, 2016
Very sorry to hear about Richards passing. I remember him from Big Johns back in the 70s all the way up to date at Pizza Queen always working hard and always having that smile.
RIP Richard.
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Bill Messick uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, March 5, 2016
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You are Family Richard. Miss you.
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Amber Worley lit a candle
Saturday, March 5, 2016
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you are now up with reds and the rest of the amazing family and friends! you truly gained your angel wings!! rest in paridise pops! I'll always remember that voice and that smile of yours! love ya!!!!
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Donna Matlack lit a candle
Saturday, March 5, 2016
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Donna Matlack posted a condolence
Saturday, March 5, 2016
I am so very sorry for your loss. Though I didn't know him well, I Know that he always had a contagious smile on his face and kind words to say. The world is a better place for having had him in it.
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Debbie May posted a condolence
Saturday, March 5, 2016
I work at Seabrook School where Richard was the custodian. He was always happy and smiling. He was a very nice man. I am so very sorry for your loss.
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Joe Borgese and Ness McNatt posted a condolence
Saturday, March 5, 2016
We are sorry for your loss.
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Carol & Bob Erhart posted a condolence
Saturday, March 5, 2016
We are so sorry for your loss. We love you
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Lorraine posted a condolence
Saturday, March 5, 2016
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband, son, father, and friend
Richard will always be remember as a nice and kind person. Please accept our condolences in the loss of a nice man. The bible speaks of a time at Rev 21:4 when will He(God) will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning, nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away. What a lovely time it will be to see ones whom we loss to death be in BETTER HEATH!!
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Lisa Pierce posted a condolence
Saturday, March 5, 2016
Babara,Rena and the rest of the Keener fanily
My condolences to you all. May god comfort you and wrap his arms around you during this time.
Thank you Richard for saving me that night. I will always be grateful to you for taking a moment to see what I was trying to hide and soeak to me.. RIP
Lisa Pierce
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Diane Smith posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
Richard was a bright spot in the day each and every day at Upper Deerfield Township Schools. His enthusiasm and humor were contagious and always left you with a smile and a chuckle. A truly wonderful guy who will be sorely missed but never forgotten.
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Juli Maichle posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
Keener Family,
We are sorry for your loss. God bless you and your family at this time and always. Keep your memories close to your heart.
In Faith,
The Maichle Family
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Frances Higgins lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Rich was the best and an awesome person. Prayers for the family.
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Diane DeFrancisco posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
My condolences to family and friends. I grew up knowing Richard as a friend and classmate. Rest in peace.
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Harry E. Springfield Jr. posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
Richard was a very good, hard working young man! My sympathies to all of the family! Rest in peace!
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Linda Connelly lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Rest easy Rich. Will always remember you doing "The Worm"!
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Brenda Clark posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
R.I.P. Richard, my condolences to the family
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Patti Scarth lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Tracy Hargrove posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
Dear Rena
We are so sorry for the loss of your husband. You and your family are in our prayers. May God be very close to you during this difficult time of grief.
Much love,
Jamie & Tracy Hargrove
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Becky Gregg posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
Prayers to the family, Keener was a great guy.
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Katie Penn lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Rich, you were a great person to work with and a fun person to be around, u will be missed but not forgotten.
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RUTH AND DENNIS PIERCE posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
DEAR RENA-SO SORRY TO HEAR OF YOUR LOSS. PRAYERS ARE GOING UP FOR THE FAMILY. REST ASSURED HE IS IN THE ARMS OF JESUS NOW AND HIS DAYS OF SUFFERING ARE OVER. MAY GOD BLESS AND KEEP,YOU. LOVE RUTH AND DENNY PIERCE.
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mary fuentes lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Renei Scarano posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
Richard was a wonderful man of God! A truly beautiful soul. His smile could light up a room and make you feel happy!
He will surely be missed. Our Lord promises that those that know Jesus as their Saviour will see our loved ones again in glory. Praise God! 2 Corinthians 5:8 days We are confident and well pleased to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. Thank you God!❤️
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The Kelleys posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
So sorry for your loss Rich was always smiling and happy he always kept a pep in his step. Praying for u guys.
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Dawn Guth posted a symbolic gesture
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Rest In Peace Richard. God be with the family.
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Evonne Smith lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Evonne Smith posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
RIP Richard,u no longer have to endure that unbearable pain. God has called u to be with your parents, rest peacefully.
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Lisa Lynch lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Lisa Kincaid posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
What a strong personable guy Rich was. I am going to miss him so much. I know that he is better where he is spending time with Jesus and he did run the race. My prayers go to the family who I know feel an emptiness at this time but I know the Lord will help fill it!
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Joy Gardner posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
My sincere sympathy to the Keener on the passing of their Husband, Father, Brother and Grandfather. My God give you all peace at this difficult time. Sincerely, Joy Gardner
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The Mendez Family lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Rich,
Everything I've heard about you confirms one fact, you were an AMAZING man. Rest in paradise.
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Michelle Messick lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Rena I am so sorry for your loss. He's walking with the Angels and good Lord above. Love you and God Bless! Richard you will be greatly miss!
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Kimberly weber lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Richard you was one fun person I'm going to miss that,but want to thank you for being apart our family just keep smiling and one day we see you again love ya miss ya !
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Michael Dooley posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
I extend my heartfelt condolences to the entire Keener family.
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Deborah Bartlett posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
I am so sorry for your loss sending prayers.
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Linda Krupa lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Linda Krupa posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
So sorry for your loss my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
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bob & lynn butcher lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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bob & lynn butcher posted a condolence
Friday, March 4, 2016
we are so sorry and sad to hear this news, we had a lot of laughs at big johns anytime I was in there. great guy. prayers for the family. god now has another good pizza man.
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RUSSELL, MEGAN AND BABY WILLIAMS lit a candle
Friday, March 4, 2016
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We will miss you dearly Rich,
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The family of Richard M. Keener uploaded a photo
Friday, March 4, 2016
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Bridgeton: (856) 451-1999
Padgett Funeral Home
1107 State Highway 77
Bridgeton, New Jersey 08302
Phone: (856) 451-1999