Jeff Seltzer's Eulogy

Just got a copy of what Jeff said at Dad's funeral. Here it is for anyone who is saving everything:

For those who do not know me, my name is Jeff Seltzer. I have had the privilege to be a colleague of Rick’s for the past 15 years. During this time I have come to know Rick in many different ways: as a co-worker, as my boss, as a mentor, a peer, and a family man. And lastly I have been lucky to know him as my friend. It is an honor to stand before you and speak of this unique and special person.

Since receiving the news of Rick’s passing, I have been reflecting on our relationship these past 15 years. It is no surprise to realize Rick has made a positive and lasting impression on the lives of many people, mine included.

I 1st met Rick while I was a young computer programmer recently graduated from college. Rick was a senior member of the Information Technology Management Team at Liberty Life. I was initially intimidated by his presence and wowed by his intelligence. How completely wrong I was to be intimidated and how 100% right I was to be WOWED!

Rick possessed a unique combination of intelligence, humility, humor, and compassion. He was both a skilled communicator and listener.

I quickly came to realize these gifts shortly after I began to work for Rick. I remember the day clearly. I slumped into Rick’s office to notify him that I had made a mistake (actually failed) with an assignment he had given me. I was expecting the worst, but as I communicated my failure to Rick, a small smile emerged on his face (as if he knew all along that I would end up right where I was). He had used the assignment and my struggles as an opportunity to teach me some important lessons about people and leadership – things he knew so well. We made a connection on this day, and a lasting relationship was established. A relationship that I would call upon literally 1000’s of times over the next 15 years.

It was a pleasure to work with and watch Rick “in Action.” He could:

• Conquer the most complex challenge
  
• Defuse stressful moments
  
• Unify people towards common goals
  
• Make complex things simple and understandable
  
• Teach and mentor in various styles with lasting impact.
  

Rick’s list of professional accomplishments is long and impressive. He was able to succeed at anything he applied himself towards. I have witnessed Rick deliver complex software solution to their successful end state on many occasions. These accomplishments alone are impressive and to proud of. But Rick’s impact extends far beyond software delivery.

Rick’s professional legacy will largely be measured by the leadership he provided and the investment he made into the personal development of so many. I am one of the many, and credit Rick for “showing me the way” time and time again. He was always available to engage in dialogue and debate on a variety of topics. He was a great sounding-board and could listen intently while maintaining an open mind towards other points of view. And when needed - he could just “tell you what to do,” and make you think that you came up with the solution all on your own.

You always walked away from a conversation with Rick better than you were before it started.

I have heard others described Rick as “wise.” I think this is a perfect description and it extends outside the professional arena. He had knowledge of so many things: family, music, sports, history, and more. He was equally open to sharing his knowledge in these areas as he was in the professional areas. I recall numerous conversations with Rick where I sought his advice as I attempted to navigate through major life changing events. He was there for me when my wife and I married, and again when my wife and I brought children into the world. He was a generous giver of his time and his resources. I am a better husband, father, and person due to the wonderful life advice Rick has provided through the years.

And let’s not forget Rick’s creative sense of humor. I recall a story recently told to me by a co-worker – John Gilmore. John approached Rick and jokingly asked, “Rick, I have been living in the south for 2 years now since my move from the northeast, am I now a southerner?” Rick’s quick and witty response was, “a cat can have kittens in the oven, but that don’t make them biscuits.” I am pretty sure John got the point.

Mine is just one reflection of the positive impact Rick has had on so many of us. The sadness of his passing is felt outside the walls of Liberty Life, MetLife, and the local community. I have spoken to people in Texas, Minnesota, Canada, NY, NJ, and from other companies who have expressed how privileged they are to have been associated with Rick. We are all fortunate to have known Rick and can never express the gratitude we feel towards him for what he has done to brighten our lives and make us better people. His legacy will live on.

My sympathy goes out to everyone who knew Rick. The Crittenden family has lost a valued love one, co-workers have lost a trusted colleague, and I, along with so many others, have lost an irreplaceable friend.

For me, 15 years was too short. But WHAT an amazing 15 years it has been.

Rick, from all of us, thanks for everything. :)