Richard Dale Pahner

Richard Dale Pahner, age 78.

Beloved son of the late William and Virginia Pahner (nee Wallace). Loving long-time partner of Sherie Collins. Dearest brother of William J. "jim" Pahner. Nephew, cousin and dear friend to many.

Private Interment All Saints Cemetery. Family and friends may call at MAHER-MELBOURNE FUNERAL HOME, 5236 MAYFIELD ROAD, LYNDHURST (EAST OF RICHMOND ROAD) 2-4 PM THURSDAY.

Rich Pahner loved to promenade along the shoreline adjoining the front of the solstice steps in Lakewood Park. Being particularly pleased with a refreshingly calm lake breeze on a summer evening, is a habit that befits Rich. As in the poetry of nature, Rich even met Sherie Collins, his lady friend of 24 years, by way of sailing. In a hospice situation now, Sherie’s steady visits model caring attention to detail, and compassionate kindness that double joy as a result. The nursing home rests in a cul-de-sac where the 78-year-old Rich is a patient who is blind and hard-of-hearing.

Rich partook equally in all sounds, sporting and harmonious, while harking to the near and far of societal graces. Children would give inquiring glances at their mothers, for instance, when Rich approached on a path. He somehow sensed this and would effuse a robust, hearty greeting to the spellbound child seeing an agile white cane in Rich’s hand. Thus quelling confusion of difference and communicating awe to the curious newbie, as mothers proudly noted.

Rich has a keen talent of carrying wholesome energy. Once he played, on a Monday evening, in the Root Cafe, a self-composed guitar solo that lasted about 3 minutes in a rolling, jolly rhythm. A Native American man in a pensive mood near a front patio of a venue hosting an open-mic chatted up Rich on the spot. Rich just listened, and, at times, nodded. This sincere mannerism somehow emitted strategic, pregnant pause, like the sounds between notes, and the lucky musician became more at ease.

By the way, Rich was instrumental in setting up safe crosswalks in downtown Lakewood. City Council awarded him a plaque for such follow-thru. His athletic participation was stellar. He ran 53 marathons near, far and wide. Rich tandem bicycled, for example, in Ireland, Wales, England, France, and Germany. Plus, in a host of States, too.

Rich now fully prepares, as a more Profound beckons, in the sunset of years well spent, to move on to life anew.

By Steve Jambrozy