A Tribute to Richard Chadwick from District Superintendent G. Michael Apostol
He was patient with his students
He was passionate about his work
He showed compassion to all students
He was professional as can be
He was Richard Chadwick
Richard Chadwick passed away on Saturday August 8th as result of an automobile accident. Richard taught at Hoosic Valley for 18 years. I had the pleasure of knowing Richard for seven years. As I walked the hallways of the high school I would periodically stop in Richard’s room for conversation. In every instance, I left feeling better than I did when I entered the room. Richard’s insight on many issues, his support of myself and the school and his gentle demeanor made my day. He had a gift for putting things into perspective and seeing the good in all things.
We read about heroes in textbooks, in the newspapers, and see them on television. Heroes can be everyday people as well. Richard Chadwick was a hero.
He was a hero because he dedicated his life to the well-being of others. He was a hero because he forgave and forgot. His students started every day in his class with a clean slate. He was a hero because he practiced his faith and he knew that when he was working with a student and he saw that “light go on”, he knew that he was touching the face of God.
The Hoosic Valley Central School District is mourning the death of Richard Chadwick. We are reeling from the death of this wonderful man. We are so lucky to have had the opportunity to work side by side with such a kind and compassionate man. Richard’s legacy to the Hoosic Valley community is the unwavering kindness he bestowed upon his students and colleagues. We are all better people for having known Richard.
On behalf the Hoosic Valley Central School District, I want to extend my heartfelt sympathies to Richard’s wife Jill and her family.
Richard Chadwick: Husband. Teacher. Hero.
Rest in peace my friend