"Hi Pat! Rich has been on my mind the past month, I had lost his email, so I did a search. So sorry to hear of his death. He was an amazing man. I work with him when I was at Westchester in Tempe. He taught me so much about social work and life in general. He will not be forgotten. "
In loving memory of
Richard B. Nolan
Richard B. Nolan, Jr., 73, passed on March 9, 2020 after a lengthy battle with multiple illnesses imposed on a longstanding disability. He fought the good fight.
Born December 8, 1946 to Richard and Frances Nolan, Rich grew up in New Jersey, went to college and graduate school in Illinois, and relocated to the Phoenix valley in 1977. With his master's degree in social work, Rich's career was as a medical social worker where he thrived on making peoples' lives easier and more comfortable. Rich was also a tireless advocate for the disabled.
He was predeceased by his parents, and is survived by his wife of over 43 years, Patricia, and "the best dog in the house", little Roxy.
No services are planned.
Memorial tributes can be sent to either the Nolan Scholarship Fund at Blackburn College, 700 College Avenue, Carlinville, IL 62626, https://blackburn.edu/online-giving/, or Tempe Community Action Agency, 2146 E. Apache Blvd., Tempe, Arizona 85281, www.tempeaction.org/ways-to-give
Tributes
"Joe Mason: Rich and I attended Blackburn College together. I always recall how happy and upbeat he was. I know those are but adjectives however to this day I recall him "diddly bopping " around campus...full of life, fully engaging and caring about all those around him. His energy was such a rare quality. I also recall visiting him in his hospital room right after his tragic accident. Despite those life altering circumstances that left him partially paralyzed he never lost his humor, wit or humanity. Throughout his life he was beacon and a testament that I have used as a guide for my own life particularly during trying situations. His steady hand always quietly in the background, helping me right my ship. And for that I will always be in his debt. Godspeed Rich Nolan."
"Rich was my cousin and I am so sorry to hear of his death. Pat I am so sorry you lost him too early. I remember him as ?the fun cousin? when we were kids and also his amazing resilience as he faced multiple challenges throughout his life. He transformed a life altering injury into a lifetime of service and advocacy. While we have not lived nearby for a long time I remember Rich?s outgoing personality and how he livened up family gatherings! He will be remembered."
"I remember Richard Nolan from our mutual hometown of Penns Grove. I remember his accident, as it was on the corner of the street I lived on. What I remember most about Richard Nolan was his strength and determination, his artwork and his work to achieve the Boy Scout Eagle Award, despite the challenges he had to overcome.He inspired me to become both a Girl Scout Leader, Trainer and Service Unit Manager, and to coach an support several young men in achieving their Eagle awards. Coming from a family of Social Workers, it pleases me that he became a Social Worker. May he rest in peace."