To The Dude

Rest easy, Richard:

Richard Wesley Hubeli

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.
In lieu of flowers, Richard would appreciate donations be made in his name to Covenant Hospice, 101 Hart St., Niceville, FL 32578; or to the American Heart Association.
A memorial and celebration of Richard's life will be held between 2 and 5 p.m. on the lawn behind Staff's Restaurant on Saturday, July 26.