Rick Stolorow, of Riverside, RI, walked quietly and with intention. The footprints he left behind made a lasting impression that will continue to gently guide the steps of those he loved. He probably never knew how much he influenced the paths of those around him. Writer, teacher, lifelong student, friend, brother, and loving partner, Rick’s journey through life was marked by a deep thoughtfulness that belied his often-lighthearted demeanor. But those lucky enough to be touched by his friendship, were acutely aware of his deliberate choices and they were thankful to see the world in a new light thanks to his self-awareness, idealism, humor, and generous spirit.
Born and raised in Michigan, Rick always felt an affinity for and often returned to the shores of his beloved Cass Lake and Lake Superior. Likewise, he held a special fondness for places he later called home in Cincinnati and Santa Fe. After more than 30 years in Rhode Island, he considered the smallest state his true home, thanks to the community he built there.
A graduate of Cranbook School, in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan (1963), Rick received his BA in English from University of Michigan (1967), and an MA in English from University of Chicago (1968). As a poet and short story writer, he was published in a wide range of literary magazines and journals, having won numerous prizes, and been recognized for his ability to turn everyday events into poignant memorable experiences.
Rick shared his love of language and literature throughout a long career of teaching—in Montessori schools, high schools, colleges, continuing education programs, and senior centers. His goal was always to help others discover the joy of writing and the unlimited potential for creative self-expression. He took enormous pride in his own craft, and practiced it daily—with discipline, self-reflection, a keen sense of observation, and wonder. His creative energy was also channeled through his love of music, dance, drawing, and painting. He played his old classical guitar every day, singing humbly and resonating sweetly.
With a minimalist sensibility as well as an enduring appreciation for the beauty in the world, Rick’s preferred modes of transportation were walking and riding his bike. He enjoyed the views afforded by a slower pace, the handholding and conversation that a walk inspired, and the meandering of thought that fueled his writing.
He loved a good meal and extra dry martinis with a twist—especially when shared with friends. A perfectly roasted chicken, a loaf of homemade bread, hand-selected at the farmer’s market, vegetables freshly harvested from his garden. He cooked slowly and with purpose—the same way he traveled through life.
Rick’s greatest joy was his life-long partner, Annie Laurie Cappuccino. It never ceased to amaze him that this wonderful woman loved him. He was grateful every day for her tender care, and he never stopped trying to be worthy. For Annie Laurie, Rick never had anything to prove, and their union was a gift beyond measure. They shared a love of dictionaries and reference books, working with their hands, biking, swimming, and bringing out the best in each other. In addition to Annie Laurie, Rick will also be profoundly missed by his sister Joanie (and Ricky) Bishow, his brother Bob (and Julia Schwartz) Stolorow, the Cappuccino family, who counted him among their own, and an ever-expanding family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who adored him.
A celebration of life will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Rick’s name to:
Child Haven International, Maxville, Ontario, Canada, https://www.childhaven.ca/
Shriners Hospital for Children-Canada, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/locations/canada
Rhode Island Community Food Bank, Providence, Rhode Island, http://rifoodbank.org/
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