He departed this world on August 20, 2022, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the age of 82. He leaves behind his wife Shirley, his brother Stephen, his sister Virginia, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Richard determined at an early age that he wanted to live a life of service as witnessed by is decision to attend the University of Michigan where he received a degree in medicine specializing in neurosurgery.
As a Captain in the United States Army, he served as a doctor during the Vietnam War saving the lives of and helping both military personnel and civilians. During this time, he was awarded the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, and other medals. After his time in the military, he returned to Los Angeles where he continued to practice medicine in addition to helping his fellow veterans, the homeless and anyone who needed a helping hand.
After he moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, he became an active member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart at the local, state and national levels, as well as the Vietnam Veterans of America. Richard went back to Vietnam 3 times with Habitat for Humanity, he assisted with the Las Vegas Veterans Court and most recently, he was involved with veterans' suicide prevention.
One of the things closest to his heart and to which he devoted much time and effort was in the establishment of the Nevada Veterans Foundation. This Foundation helped build and continues to support the Las Vegas Fisher House. The Foundation is a legacy Richard felt very strongly about and it was his hope it would continue for many years.
If you wish to donate, it is requested that your donation be made in Richard's memory, to the Nevada Veterans Foundation to benefit the Fisher House, either online at https://veterans.nv.gov/resources/nevada-veterans-foundation/ or by mail to the Nevada Veterans Foundation, P.O. Box 752291, Las Vegas, NV 89136.
A committal service for Richard will be held Thursday, October 13, 2022 at 11:20 AM at Southern Nevada Veteran's Memorial Cemetery, 1900 Veteran's Memorial Drive, Boulder City, NV 89005.
Richard will be laid to rest in Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 1900 Veterans Memorial Drive, Boulder City, NV 89005.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmcheyenne.com for the Small family.
DONATIONS
Nevada Veterans Foundation to benefit the Fisher House P.O. Box 752291, Las Vegas, Nevada 89136
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