In Loving Memory of
Martin Richard
All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances; And one man in his time plays many parts.
Philosophy, Science & Imagination
Some people are natural performers. They just have that thing. Martin was one of those right out of the gate (or at least so his siblings have told me!). And from my time knowing him, this totally tracks. Of course, this isn’t to say that he didn’t work at it. Martin was a showman. And all true showmen know that they can’t sit on their laurels; they must hone their craft. And hone he did. Martin read and learned voraciously & played (enjoyed life and loved to laugh) with equal magnitude. And he inspired others to do the same. What a joy to have so been able to be present for & witness so many seasons of your life, friend! Bravo! I can’t wait for the encore! — Marisa
ABOUT MARTIN
Martin was passionate about science since he learned to read. He fondly recalls devouring the “All About” series of science books for kids before fourth grade and never missed an episode of “Watch Mr. Wizard.” In high school he regularly assisted teachers in prepping for chemistry and physics classes and gave lengthy presentations on lasers (which were then brand new). Martin was the first National Merit Scholar from his high school.
Later in life he continued his love of science by writing book reviews on popular science in East Lansing, Baton Rouge, and St Petersburg. He began his volunteer teaching work of middle schoolers in the 80s, and continued doing so, intermittently, up to his final days. He was also a science tutor to several families over the years and a teacher of chess to many in the community.
Over the years, Martin’s interests expanded to include history and the philosophy of science.
It is increasingly clear that in an era where the universe of disinformation is expanding more rapidly than the real one, we desperately need to teach how to sort good argument from bad. Those who learn nothing from history are doomed to retweet it.
— Martin Richard
By igniting and stoking the fires of what Einstein called “holy curiosity,” Martin aspired to teach not just the practice of science and reason, but the appreciation of it as the best means we have by which we apprehend the deep beauty and interconnectedness of all things.
Poetry & Play
Fox in Socks on the Fly!
This was the first time I’d ever heard Fox in Socks read aloud….and the first time I recall ever audibly reciting it (it gets good about 1/2 way through!). Martin & I were on a roll and laugh(ed) fondly about that fun day (including the fact that this video makes him look like he’s naked! Haha!) — Marisa
Martin as Batween
Our storyteller extraordinaire, as Batween, on our Halloween Hayride Walks for kids. Martin never missed an opportunity to get into character!
The Trilobyte Poem (by Martin)
Martin loved to write. Whatever the subject, he had a knack for tapping into the wildly artistic, vividly connected & creatively joyful side of living & life. And, of course, he was delightfully witty (a trait he attributed to his father).
Seven Samurai (One of Martin's Fav's!)
Martin was an eccentric dude. And super smart. Like a good chess player, he was always thinking 3 steps ahead. But never at the expense of enjoying the moment. Seven Samurai was one of his many favorite movies. (He would appreciate it being on this page!).
Martin & The Golden Arm (Audio- Pending)
Martin & The Raven (Audio- Pending)
Wine & Chess
Notes from the Community
Community Toasts (Pending)
Helena IR Article
(Click on gallery image above to view slider pictures from Martin’s celebration)
Teacher & Friend
