"I have only slipped away into the next room, I am I and you are you. Whatever we were to each other, that we still are. Call me by my old familiar name. Speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Play, smile, think of me. All is well."
~ Henry Scott Holland (shortened from What is Death?)

The Richmond Life Skills program said good bye to Dan Houstie in February.  Dan will always be remembered as the man with the smile.  He had been supported by the program for 10 years and touched many lives along the way.  He was an integral part of starting Handy Crew work crew, and was often found drumming up work or recruiting new hires.  He was never without a business card!  He was the life of the party at all RLS functions, dancing up a storm until the last song of the night.  He very openly shared his life experiences with everyone while different topics were being discussed, and he was always right there helping his peers when they needed it.  Dan was always making sure everyone was included and comfortable. He was a caring man full of contagious energy and he’ll be deeply missed.  Good bye “Rock” and thank you for the many memories you left behind.
~ Amy

He’s our sunshine, loves to listen to problems. Loves to talk to all of us. He loves animals like eagles. 
~ Heather

You’re such a funny and crazy guy that I’ve ever met. God Bless you
~ Gary

I always had fun with Dan; he made me laugh a lot and my friends too. He played cards like go fish with me.
~ Raji

He used to make us all laugh, he painted our office, and he used to attend the evening program with me. I will miss Dan very much.
~ Audrey B

Dan made me laugh; he made me very happy, giving me Chinese food. I will see him again one day. He and I will play go fish together.
~ Bobby

Rest in Peace Dan! You will always be missed! You left us too soon. You will always be in our hearts.
~ Tim

Dan, you were a good friend, I will never forget you. I have good memories about you. A part of me will always remember you.
~ Jotti

I will miss you Dan. You were the life of the party. I always will remember going to the PNE with you and riding on the pirate ship.
~ David T

Dan, I will miss you very much, love always. 
~ Michelle S

I really like Dan. I will miss you.
~ Daisy

Dan always kept me company when he came to the program, he always talked to me about what he did for his living and his life he was a very friendly and a nice person to talk to and hang out with he will be missed by his peers and the staff.
~ Anastasia G

Dan is beautiful and kind.
~ Paco

I will always have fond and fun memories of Dan.  His smile was uplifting and his laughter contagious.
~ Amanda R

Dan will be greatly missed.  His love, enthusiasm and independance inspired his peers and community.
~ Josh