Richard Melville Escoffier
March 11, 1946 – March 21, 2025
On March 13, 2025, under the ethereal glow of a total lunar eclipse – a Blood Moon – Richard Melville Escoffier began his transition from this earthly realm to the next dimension. Surrounded by love, care, and the unwavering presence of Jessica Bueler, Jeannie Ippolito, and Lauren Remspecher, Rick completed his journey on March 21, 2025.
Born in Vancouver, Canada, to Mary Veronica Escoffier Barnes (maiden name Galozo) and Robert Edgar Escoffier, Rick was raised in Imperial, Missouri. He is survived by his sisters: Michelle “Mitzi” Barnes; Denise “Dede” and her husband Steve Remspecher; Colleen Gist; Donna and her husband Randall Lytle; and step-brother, Dale Webster.
Rick was more than a son, brother, uncle, cousin, friend, and soldier; he was a cosmic traveler, a seeker of truths. His life was a tapestry woven with threads of kindness, eccentricity, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. He lived life on his own terms.
For 79 revolutions around the sun, Rick tolerated his human form, all the while knowing he was stardust yearning for the cosmos. He lived a life dedicated to rescuing. As an Army medic in Vietnam, he tended to wounded soldiers. Back home, he rescued “treasures” from the trash, endlessly scouring garage sales and discarded curbside goodies, often proclaiming while throwing a fist in the air, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure!” Most profoundly, he rescued the Bueler family, offering steadfast support to his dear friend Bill and serving as both manager and mascot at HSB Tobacconist in the Delmar Loop for over two decades. In doing so, he became a second father figure to Bill’s daughters – Jessica, Elizabeth, Amanda, and Samantha – guiding them with unconditional love and little tidbits of wisdom.
Rick often spoke in riddles and one-liners – each a nugget of cosmic insight wrapped in humor. Like a wandering sage, his words lingered, inviting reflection and often revealing deeper truths over time.
Like a rolling stone, Rick’s adventures were as vast as the horizons his white truck traversed. He touched countless lives, unbound by convention, always authentic in his expressions. He lived with a purity of action and spirit, marching to the beat of his own drum, experiencing a richness of life that many only dream of.
Rick never sought accolades or material comforts. His daily joys were simple: two packs of smokes, a Heineken, newspapers, and horse racing forms to study meticulously, deciding which “horseys” he wanted to “feed.” Yet, his impact was profound, his legacy enduring.
But for now Rick, you’ll have to accept our collective, “Thank you. You were there for us when we needed you most.” Your life is an unforgettable legacy, and we are eternally grateful for you choosing to selflessly share your spirit and wisdom with those you loved.
In reflecting on the positive impact Rick made in this world, I believe it is summed up best by words often spoken by Rick himself, “Not too shabby,” Rick. Not too shabby at all.
– CELEBRATION OF LIFE –
Rick often spoke with a twinkle in his eye, blending humor with a touch of mysticism. On one such occasion, he casually mentioned, “I’ll be back on the next blood moon.” At the time, it felt like one of his many playful musings. However, when Rick began his transition on March 13, 2025 – a day marked by a blood moon – we couldn’t help but recall his words and feel a profound connection.
In honor of Rick’s unique spirit and his celestial jest, we invite you to a Celebration of Life on Sunday, September 7, 2025, beginning at 1:00 p.m., at the home of Rick Escoffier. This date coincides with the next total lunar eclipse, a moment Rick fondly claimed would herald his return.
While we may not stay up late enough to witness the eclipse itself, we’ll gather during the day for an outdoor backyard BBQ to share stories, laughter, and memories, embracing the magic Rick brought into our lives. Join us to celebrate a life that was anything but ordinary.
Please contact Jessica at jessicabueler@gmail.com if you plan on attending and need the address. Please send any pictures and stories you may have so we can share with others.
ARRANGEMENTS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF MICHEL FUNERAL HOME
