I'm putting this in a letter to share with others what you have taught me by example: true grit, determination and the magic of spiritual power.
In early 1944, when we had just become roommates at Alpha Delta Phi, I felt sorry you were a victim of cerebral palsy and wished to help you up the steps. You, with a mock snarl, said, “Take your filthy hands off me!” In 1995, at our 50th ReUnion, a classmate who was on the wrestling team with you explained, “The word of Leftwich was, ‘go for his [weak] legs.' What they didn't tell you was how strong his arms were.”
I had already admired your self reliance and often wondered how you would fare in later life. You led a successful career as an engineer and developer of military technology. Your wife, Liv, mother of your three girls, organized the Leftwich Family Choir and became a great gardener and poet.
Richard Leftwich, you kept up the traditional stiff upper lip. We should be proud of the exemplary and heroic way you lived your life.
William H. Bloom MD '45
Mr. Leftwich died March 9, 2006-Ed.
Correction: The 2005 Report of Gifts should have recognized James W. Wilson '69 as a Terrace Council Member of the Chester Arthur Alliance.