Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Richard Wesley Hubeli 1953 - 2008


Richard I will miss you! You were a great friend to me. You always made me feel welcomed. When I came into work and saw you there I knew the night was going to be ok. Talking with you about the Atlanta Braves and the Florida Gators helped me forget everything that was goin on around me. I will never forget sitting on the fence with you at Mossy Headz and just talking for hours about the world and the people we love. You had many names, "The Dude", "The Godfather", "mentor", "Brother", "Daddy", but most of all "Friend". Thank you for being a great, open minded, loving, pure soul. You touched many lives and you will never be forgotten. In your own words brother....Peace out!


July 30, 1953 � July 20, 2008. Richard, an icon to some, was 54 years young when he completed his life's journey peacefully in his home surrounded by family and friends. For 30 years he was Fort Walton's favorite evening "counselor" at Docie's Dock in Staff's Restaurant. He never met a stranger and was a mentor to young and old alike. He will be greatly missed not only by his family and friends, but also by those "clients" whose lives he touched.
Richard was born in Victoria, Texas, to the Air Force family of Robert and June Hubeli, both of whom preceded him in death. As a child, traveling the world with his family provided him with rich memories and instilled in him a love for travel and a zest for life. After his family was stationed at Hurlburt Field in 1965, Rich found his home and settled here in Fort Walton Beach. Like so many of us, he loved the beaches, the Gulf, and the innumerable recreation activities that this area provides. Yet, it was his multitude of friends that endeared him most to the area.
Richard loved music! He was absolutely in his element attending a wide range of concerts, but he had a real soft spot for blues and jazz. Naturally, New Orleans filled this musical void and was one of Richard's favorite places to be.
Richard is survived by his daughter, Micah (alias "Summer Wind"), of whom he never missed an opportunity to speak of her accomplishments academically as well as athletically. She was his pride and joy as well as his favorite "Snuggle Buddy," and she afforded him numerous proud moments. Further, he is survived by his ex-wife, Cathy Race Hubeli, principal of Wright Elementary where Richard spent every Tuesday mentoring several fourth and fifth grade students.
Other survivors include his brother, Robert Hubeli; and his sister, Laurie Hawkins. Rich loved being a big brother, providing his siblings with advice as well as his infamous quick wit and frequent ribbings. Robert's and Laurie's families loved Uncle Rich's antics. Robert's family - wife, Cathy, and his twin daughters, Haley and Heather - live in Mount Holly, N.C. Laurie's family - husband Jesse, and her children, Dakota and Jessica - live in Adkins, Texas.
His contributions to the community included mentoring at Wright Elementary School, membership in the local Elk's Lodge, and a supporter of the Okaloosa County All Sports Organization.
Richard's family and friends greatly appreciate the loving care given by the Niceville Red Team of Covenant Hospice. Without their care, his final days would not have been as peaceful and dignified. In addition, his family would like to express their thanks to the multitude of Richard's friends that helped care for him morning and night in order to fulfill his wish of finishing his final days at home.

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