Deceased November 20, 2023
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In Memory
Richard Newton Soder, born on Jan. 17, 1929, passed away peacefully at the age of almost 95 on Nov. 20, 2023, from complications of pneumonia and heart failure. He is survived by his four daughters and multiple grand- and great-grandchildren, as well as nieces and a nephew, all of whom he loved dearly.
Rich was raised in Springfield, Pa., with his sister, Nancy. He excelled at his studies and in high jump. “Rich” later became “Dick” to everyone else.
Dick enlisted in the Navy at the age of 17 and served as an electronics engineer on a submarine tender in the Panama Canal. He then applied to Amherst College on the GI Bill.
After college, with his trademark curious, adventurous spirit, he embarked on a marketing career with Vicks that took him to the Philippines, France and England, where he raised a family with the love of his life, Shirley, of blessed memory. They went on to build their own company by creating and selling witch hazel gel, which they marketed in Europe. It is still today a beloved staple there.
Dad (Dick) had a sharp intellect and could converse on any subject, but his most wonderful trait was his ability to make and keep lifelong friends.
He talked of his days at Amherst, the friends he loved, the learning he loved, the milk he loved in the cafeteria (!), and on and on …
Dad was always grateful for the opportunity to go to Amherst. He remained generous and kind throughout his life.
To his alma mater; to all the wonderful friends who kept in touch with him over the years; to all the new friends he made through his love of bridge in Chapel Hill, N.C., and San Francisco, his family is eternally grateful. Thank you.
Dick’s daughters, Stephanie, Susan, Cynthia and Sarah