By Colleen Hughes
Long time Aptos Resident Rick Prichard died unexpectedly on October 6. He had just celebrated his 59th birthday on September 15. His death came as a shock to all that knew him. Remembered as a kind, compassionate and gentle soul, his greatest gift was his love for his family. He leaves behind his wife Beth Prichard and their three children, Donovan (13), Ryley (11) little Caden (7) and his brother Thane Prichard of Corralitos. His Life Celebration was held on October 20 at Christ Lutheran Church in Aptos. It was no surprise that rows of pews would not be enough for all of the friends and family whose life’s he touched. There were people standing in the back of the church and many still flowing out the church doors.
Rick and Beth truly had a love story. As Rick would say, “It was love at first sight.” Their love for one another grew stronger through the years. They met in L.A. in 1996 and shortly after the birth of their first son, they moved to Aptos (12 years ago) to establish their roots here and raise their children.
Rick taught Donovan how to play guitar and bass (Donavan is currently in a rock band with classmates from Aptos Jr. High). He went to every school event and extracurricular activity with his kids. He passed on his passion of reading to his children as often Rick cuddled on the couch reading with them. He adored Beth and the kids. As recently as a month ago, I would see Beth and Rick, hand in hand going for a walk toward the beach. No kids, just each other. Something they always made time for.
As for many of us, economic times have hit hard. Rick was laid off and for the past 2 years has taken whatever work he could find. As an at home mom for 13 years, Beth sought work and was hired by UCSC as a Lab Manager for the Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology Department. Being a working parent never stopped Rick or Beth from giving back to the Aptos community.
Beth created a non-profit through Christ Lutheran Church called C.F.I., Child & Family Institute, a support program to help foster spiritual growth for families in Aptos. She is devastated by the loss of Rick. Her greatest hope and efforts are ensuring that Aptos is where she and the kids can stay as it is the only home the Prichard children have ever known.
Donations to the Prichard Family can be made to:
Christ Lutheran Church, Memo Line “Prichard Children” – Top of the Check: Account #32185078. Send to: Bay Federal Credit Union, 105-A Post Office Drive, Aptos California 95003
Captions: Photo with kids on his last birthday 9/15/12
Photo at a recent beach family outing