Richard, Sr. & Dorothy were lifelong residents of Lincoln and graduates of Cathedral High School (1936 and 1935). In 1942, they married in California, where he was stationed with the U.S. Army before being sent to Europe during World War II. He was awarded the Bronze Star during that time.
Upon returning home at the end of the war, Richard, Sr. and Dorothy settled into married life and raised their family. As their parents before them sacrificed to provide a Catholic education, so too, did they. Their children, Richard, Jr. and Marysue, attended a Catholic elementary school and both graduated from Pius X in 1966 and 1971.
At the time of his death in 1987, Richard, Sr. was Executive Director of the Lincoln Housing Authority (LHA). Under his direction the LHA grew to provide high quality housing for low income families and elderly in Lincoln. He was sensitive to the plight of others and would often give grocery money out of his own pocket to help a client in need. He was especially proud of the LHA facilities that provided safe, affordable, quality apartments for low-income elderly, and was always especially touched by the needs of children. The Lincoln Housing Authority gained national recognition for its success under his leadership and Burke Plaza, a high rise for low income elderly, was named in his honor by the LHA Board of Directors.
Dorothy was a devoted wife and mother who spent many hours volunteering at St. Teresa’s church and school. She enjoyed her work at Bryan Hospital and the opportunity to help those with loved ones who were hospitalized. She recited the rosary daily until her death in 2005.
