Today’s day of sanctuary was sponsored by Lynn Williamson, Connie Lamm, and Sue Rowlett, in memory of Dr. Mel Richardson. Today would have been Dr. Mel’s 64th birthday. His dear friend, Lynn, wanted to share these beautiful sentiments:
“Happy birthday to our dear friend Mel. I have gone to the phone and laptop a number of times to reach out to you, and then I remember. You are greatly missed. Some of the things I miss most are: you had my back always, you had a lovely accent, you had a big beautiful smile, you had a wicked sense of humor, you were so smart and witty that I could listen to you talk on any topic – in particular of your adventures, your vast knowledge of, and love for, animals and veterinary medicine.
Mel also had a resilient personality but a very tender heart. Mel introduced me to the sanctuary and to the chimps – because of that, I have these 7 amazing beings in my life. I also am honored to now be friends with the most amazing bunch of humans who share my values and ethics. So thank you, Mel, for this and more. See you again some day.”
Jody, Jamie, Annie and Burrito on Young’s Hill:
And these lovely thoughts from Sue:
“I had never met Mel but have worked with Lynn Williamson for many years and what he shared with, and taught her, was carried forward by her to me and to others. Like when a rock is dropped in the water and the ripples fan out. The difference being Mel’s ripple effect doesn’t stop.”
Thank you so much, Lynn, Connie and Sue, for honoring Mel in such a generous way and for including the chimpanzees in this special day.
Jamie enjoying her view:
If you have been following our blog recently, you probably realize by now that Dr. Mel was a very special person, loved by so many throughout the animal kingdom. We are truly touched and honored by all those who have wished to honor Dr. Mel’s memory through their support of the chimpanzees. More than one person wished to sponsor today in celebration of Mel’s life so please check back later for another sponsorship and the chimpanzees’ party in his memory.
I remember my little brother Mel as someone who made his entire family – Proud. Their were seven of us children. Mel had four older sisters and two older brother. With Mel’s passing, a sister Betty and myself are all that remain.
We will meet again Dear Brother.
Tears.
Love Always,
Ron