I’m ashamed to say that I hadn’t really known Richie as an adult although I’ve known the Bottego family since the early ’70s. I met his parents, Rich and Irene, sister, Lisa and Richie when my sister Nancy introduced us and I loved them all from the start.
My kids grew up with Lisa and Richie — my youngest daughter and Richie shared the same birthday — Aug. 6 and their birthdays were always celebrated at the Bottegos.
My memories of Richie, who passed away Oct. 13 at home in Shelburne, are when he was quite young. He was such a happy kid and full of mischief.
It was the first time I had the opportunity to meet a child with Down Syndrome and he amazed me. Whenever I walked in the door, he’d run to me for a hug and a kiss. He loved everyone, especially the ladies …
He kept Rich and Irene on their toes. He was so full of life and wonderment. He loved everyone and thought nothing of running off to visit a neighbor, leaving Rich and Irene frantic until they’d get a call telling them which neighbor’s house he was in. I think Irene had Greenfield’s finest on speed dial — they all knew him by name — it was scary but hilarious at the same time. He was fearless and always ready for an adventure.
I remember when Irene got Richie involved with the United ARC — the best thing she ever did for him. It really brought out his potential and showed everyone what he was capable of. Irene was an incredible mom. She and Rich made sure that Richie had every opportunity available. She never stopped fighting for him and his accomplishments, throughout his life, were amazing. He lived his life to the fullest on his terms.
He attended elementary school in Greenfield, and was a graduate of Franklin County Tech School. He participated in Special Olympics in swimming and downhill skiing. He competed in the 1989 International Special Olympic games, receiving several medals.
Richie received the Certificate of Achievement from the Culinary Training Program at UMass and for a time was employed at a local nursing home. He also volunteered for the Meals on Wheels program.
One of Richie’s hobbies was art and some of his work was displayed at the City Stage Art Show in Springfield. He loved going to the Teen Center in Greenfield to dance. He chose to wear suits and was considered a snazzy dresser. His other loves included billiards, mini-golf, bicycling, swimming and downhill skiing.
Of course, as life goes, we moved away from the neighborhood and our lives took different paths. I’d run into Rich and Irene from time to time and I’d get to see Richie as he grew older. He always had a smile and a hug for me, even when he hadn’t seen me for awhile. He was such a friendly kid and I guess that never changed as he became an adult.
Finally, we only met at funerals, my folks, my sister’s and then Richie’s. He had 46 years of love, respect, admiration and joy from his family and friends who were fortunate to be in his life. He made them all better people.
Sheila Quinlivan lives in Winchester, N.H.