I first met Richard K. Stoddart in 1967 as a 20-year old DJ at KBLI-690 in Blackfoot, Idaho while I was serving there as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Growing up in southern California I developed a keen interest in radio broadcasting. Thus we paid a few visits in our spare time to KBLI.
Rick was my mentor: In 1967 while I was a missionary, I often heard "Rockin' Rick" invite listeners to "Pick It and Play It" (call to request a song). I longed for the day when I could be a DJ too. And Rick was a great family man. I also longed to be married and have children to raise like Rick.
After I finished my mission in March 1968, Rick and I joined the Idaho Army National Guard in Pocatello, Idaho in April. And in July we were both sent to Fort Knox, Kentucky for Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training (Reconnaissance). So Rick and I developed an even greater friendship in Fort Knox as members of the same platoon and squadron. We actually became each other's best friends among the other young men whom we had never met before.
Fast forward 21 years: Linda and I, and our 7 kids moved to Blackfoot, Idaho to work for KLCE-97.3 for over 15 years as part of the KBLI group. Rick was still living in Blackfoot, and even though he had taken other jobs at other stations in the area, he eventually found his way back to the KLCE-KBLI group to work as an advertising executive. So Rick and I worked together again for many more years.
On December 9, 2017, Rick passed away at the age of 71. And as you'll remember, just three months prior another close radio buddy of mine, Don Bishop, passed away at the age of 69 on September 10, 2017. It's a bit daunting to see my close friends pass away who are younger than me. I wonder when your time will come. It's in the mind of God.
I believe God has a purpose for each of us in our lives, and when we have finished that purpose, He reclaims us to be with Him. God bless my good friends for the times they were given to accomplish their mortal missions. May God grant me the extra time to fulfill mine.
When I attended Rick's viewing and funeral, I had a wonderful time conversing with his good childhood friend Dave Clark, his daughter Janelle, son Jason, daughter Jamie, and his widow Karen. I was gratified to hear the wonderful stories they told about Rick, the quality of life he led, and their joyful and inspired confidence that they would see him again - this is but a brief separation.
Rick was a wonderful example of how someone in the radio business could hold on to his religious values and strong commitment as a true American. When I would call him on the phone, he would answer with the quip (like Paul Harvey), "Good morning, Americans!" His kids do not remember his saying that to them. Apparently he reserved that greeting for his radio buddies.
