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REMEMBERING RICHARD DIEDRICHSEN

lordshipia

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing on January 29 of our friend, former LIA leader and volunteer extraordinaire, Richard Diedrichsen. Rich is pictured here in a project on the Lordship Bluffs.


A message from the Lordship Improvement Association (LIA) Board of Governors:


It would have been a rare day in Lordship if Richard Diedrichsen was not on the Bluffs - cutting back invasive plants, picking up trash, trimming shrubs, cleaning out birdhouses, checking on Christmas trees and snow fences used to deter beach erosion, planting daffodils, and, of course, enjoying the scenic beauty with passing neighbors.

 

Fittingly, in 1994, Robert Sammis transferred trusteeship of the Bluffs to the Lordship Improvement Association under Richard's leadership.

 

During Richard's tenure as President of LIA, he attained the status of a 501(c)3 charitable organization for conservation purposes. Under his leadership, LIA was reclassified as tax exempt to Stratford property taxes.

 

He spearheaded the design and development of Captain Kidd's Garden along with the walkway (handicapped accessible) to the beach at the end of Lordship Road. Benches and bike racks served to enhance the Lordship residents' enjoyment of the beauty of the Bluffs overlooking Long Island Sound.

 

During Richard’s presidency, the LIA created eight gardens throughout Lordship to add to the neighborhood's beauty.

 

And Richard launched an annual LIA brochure and fundraising appeal, which led to expanding the LIA to nearly 300 donors.

 

Richard enlisted many neighbors with his passion and encouragement to join in the preservation and beautification of Lordship – and it was not uncommon for him to be leading a group of volunteers on his many improvement projects.

 

The Lordship Improvement Association and the community of Lordship owe a debt of gratitude to our beloved visionary, leader, friend and neighbor. May his legacy be an inspiration for Lordship neighbors to exemplify Richard's kindness, neighborliness, and dedication to protect and preserve our beautiful land.

 

To his family and friends, the Lordship Improvement Association extends our heartfelt condolences. May his memories and honorable work leave this world a better place, and bring you comfort and solace.

 

Note: Here is a link to Richard’s obituary:

 

Also, the LIA is planning further tributes to Richard, including an article of memories and photos from Lordship residents and friends. Please share your memories of Richard – stories and/or photos – by sending them soon to LordshipIA@gmail.

 



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