Richard Edmund Horowicz began life in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, on September 25, 1938, as the cherished son of Edmund and Harriet Horowicz. After their death, Rick was adopted by Leo and Lillian Horowicz.

He spent his childhood in a number of places, including Chicago, Germany and Switzerland. Rick graduated from the Georgetown School of Foreign Service and received an advanced degree from Johns Hopkins University. He accepted a military commission as an Army officer. He served numerous tours in Germany and Vietnam, where he was awarded the Bronze Star. After his military service, Richard enjoyed a long and fulfilling career as an educator in the Baltimore City Public School system and at Talmudical Academy.

Days before his first tour of duty, Richard met Robbye Lee Barrow on a blind date. They married shortly after in 1962 -- a union that would last the remainder of his life. Their legacy is a large and loving family. Rick is survived by his wife, his daughter (Neysa Horowicz of South Attleboro, MA), his three sons and their wives (Christopher and Karissa Horowicz of Shepherdstown, WV; Benjamin and Elizabeth Horowicz of Los Gatos, CA; and Joshua and Sarah Horowicz of Framingham, MA), and 8 grandchildren.

A being in constant motion, Rick loved everything active and outdoors. He enjoyed long bike rides, yard work, hiking, and camping. He was rarely seen without one of his not-quite-fashionable Havana shirts, a cup of coffee, and a hidden stash of sweets. He read all of the time. He loved to discuss and debate with anyone willing to test his substantial intellect.

Most of all, Rick loved his family. He lived every day for his wife. The activities and accomplishments of his children and grandkids gave him great joy and energy.

Rick was unfailingly genuine. He lived life without artifice or pretense. He was a big, cheerful, and positive presence. Rick will be missed, but his memory will live on through the many lives he influenced.

A service celebrating Rick's life will be held at 1:00 pm on Sunday, February 7th at the Entler Hotel in Shepherdstown, WV on the corner of German and Princess Streets.

Arrangements are by Brown Funeral Home.