Date Of Birth: July 27, 1942
Date Of Death: February 17, 2010
Richard S. Ewing was born in 1942 in Chicago. Dad, his brother Steve and his sister Kathy moved around quite a bit until finally landing in Indianapolis. From an early age he knew that he wanted to be a lawyer. To that end, he attended college at DePauw University and law school at Indiana University in pursuit of that goal. He served in the Air Force in the Judge Advocate General’s Office in the beginning of his career and once discharged went to work for Stewart & Irwin Attorneys-at-Law. During this time he also worked for the City of Indianapolis Attorney’s Office. In true pursuit of his goals, he retired from the firm Due, Doyle & Ewing.Dad had a huge presence. He could fill a room with his laugh and always had a good story to tell. There was never anything that was out of the way and it turns out you could get anything you need if you went by way of Fortville. Nor could he ever go anywhere without knowing someone! You could always count on Dad to know someone even if it was in Fortville. His robust personality could carry him through any situation. He loved his family and had a passion for the law. You might even have fashioned him a work alcoholic, but in the end he worked diligently and succeeded in doing an amazing job as a husband, father, lawyer and friend. His friends and colleagues were an important part of his life -from softball at Riverside Park to the Lost Ball Open – he loved those times. Dad had a rare disease called PSP (Progressive SupraNuclear Palsy) which slowly shut down his physical body. It was a difficult disease to watch transform him from the larger than life man we knew but as long as he was capable he would laugh and talk to us, mom and the grandkids.He is a great man and will be remembered as such. Rick, Dad, Papa – whatever you call him – we love you always!Our family would like to ask that in lieu of gifts or flowers that you make a donation to help others with Dad’s disease at www.curepsp.org or to Mom’s favorite charity the Julian Center at www.juliancenter.org.”In order to fully celebrate our Dad’s life, feel free to wear bright, cheery, casual attire.”
Diane Cody says
I’m so very sorry to hear of your dad’s passing. The love of a husband and father are so precious and will always be remembered. It’s difficult to loose someone you love, but now he will rest in peace and will watch over you and your family. Please remember that you have the support of friends that love you. We will always be there for you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Love,
Diane Cody
Lisa Battreall Williams says
Elaine, Erin, Jenny – I am so sad to hear of Ricks passing but at the same time I feel relief for him as he is now finally resting in Peace. I think of you all often and will be thinking of you as you go through this difficult time. I Love you guys!
Mary Jo Ron says
Elaine, Erin and Jenny, Please accept our deepest sympathy. Our prayers are for you and your families during this difficult time. My best memory of Rick was those Halloweens when he would take all the kids door to door, drink in hand, having a really good time. We love you all. Mary Jo and Ron
Linda Whyte says
My blessings go out to you and your family. God Bless you all.
Sincerely,Linda Whyte and Family
Melanie Stevens says
Erin and family,
We are thinking about you and your family with the passing of your father and please accept our deepest sympathy. Our prayers are for you and your families during this difficult time.
Jamie Connor says
Hey Ewing, I am so sorry to hear that your father lost his battle. Please know that we are thinking of you and your family in this difficult time. Love Ashley & Jamie
Kathy Roush says
My heart goes out to you and the girls.
Love,
Kathy
Rick Roush says
Elaine,we give you all our love and support in this trying time. Just know we are here for you always.
With love,
Rick, Audrah, Mike.
Tom Blessing says
Rick was my first boss after law school and I had the privilege of being a protege of sorts. There are attorneys, there are those who call themselves “litigators” and then there is an increasingly rare group called trial lawyers. Rick was a trial lawyer in the true sense (and rich tradition) of that term and an outstanding one at that. He was also a great teacher, mentor and friend. I learned more in a one week trial with Rick than I did in 3 years of law school. Even when I was not helping him on a trial, I would go to court to watch Rick’s courtroom performance and soak up all the knowledge I could. Most people consider their work a job or career; Rick had a profession–the law. And he dearly loved it. His passion for the law was surpassed only by his love for his bride and children–for whom he was never too busy to take a phone call. I will never forget him.
Denise Irvin Wells says
Elaine, Erin & Jenny: I worked at Stewart Irwin many years ago for Bob Rupp, and often assisted with the heavy workload that Rick always managed to generate. I had much love and respect for Rick, brilliant man and good person. I remember him as quite a character and remember the girls when they were very young. My heartfelt sympathy to your family as you travel this next journey without this special man. I shall always remember him fondly.
Sincerely,
Denise Wells
former Stewart Irwin employee
Angela Gomez says
Elaine: My deepest sympathy to you and your family during this difficult time. I have good memories having worked for Rick in years past. I was sad to see him leave Due Doyle because he was so great to work for. By far the best boss I’ve ever had! Truly a great man! I’m so sorry for your loss.
Maribeth Paskins Degyansky says
Dear Elaine, Erin and Jenny, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Rick has done so much for Andy and me over the years and I have always remembered how kind he was. It has been many years since I have seen all of you, but you have never been forgotten.
I am so sorry for your loss and my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jan Parker says
Elaine & family,all of you are in my thoughts. Rick was someone who
came into my life and left footprints on my heart.
Love, Jan
Cathie K says
To Brandon,
Rick was so bright, funny, and caring, and he would be so proud to see you follow in his footsteps. He will not be forgotten for his many years of outstanding legal practice and leadership, and you will surely carry the torch of your dad’s exceptional career as you pursue your legal education. Know that many think of you with love, respect, and admiration at this time of loss.
To Linda, our thoughts and prayers are with you, too, as we remember Rick.
To all of Rick’s family, we offer you condolences and will think of him often.
Ajay Maduskar says
Dear Erin,
My heartfelt prayers go out to you and your family at this time. I must commend you on the way you carried yourself during your father’s illness. In the last year, I have never once heard a tone of discouragement or defeat in your voice despite the difficulties you were facing. You have always brought positive energy and light-heartedness to our conversations; much how your father would be, I’d imagine. I’m sure he was very proud of you.
Sincerely, Ajay
Joan E Callahan says
Rick, we began our years at Stewart & Irwn, P.C. at almost the same time in 1969. Of course, back then it was Stewart Irwin Gilliom Fuller & Meyer. I left in 2001. Many years, many memories; good/happy times, bad/sad times. You were a tremendous lawyer and worked diligently for your clients. You were a great friend. We had such fun at softball games, memories I will always cherish. I am so sorry for your long battle and may you now rest in peace. Please give Sandi (Updike) and Mr. Guthrie my love. Elaine, your courage, strength and fortitude are an inspiration. God bless you and your family.
Linda Sebring Sullivan says
Elaine – I am so sorry for your loss. I still think of you often. I will keep you, the girls and your family in my prayers.
Julie Catton says
Jenny and Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.
Tim & Julie
Amy Corey says
I know this has been a sad and long journey. I am so sorry for your loss. I am happy for Mr. Ewing as he is now at peace after so many hard challenges.
Know you are all loved and thought of with great respect.
BIG HUGS
The Corey’s
Amy, Jeff and Jeff Jr
Dave Kasza says
Elaine,
You have our deepest sympathy on the loss of Rick. He was one of the best, his sense of humor was second to none. He will be sadly missed.
Sincerely,
Dave and Kathy Kasza
Amy Robbins says
Shoppy,
You are in my prayers. Love you long time….you know that. Please lean on us, same as no one runs alone; no one walks through difficult times alone.
Love,
Plank
John Michelle Battreall Bunch says
Elaine, Erin and Jenny,
You are in my thoughts and prayers as you go through this difficult time.
In reflection, I am so thankful as a child to have been considered part of the Ewing family. Pay Day Fridays when he brought home candy for “his girls” I will never forget! Giggle filled trips to the zoo and adventures on the city bus to join him for lunch. I still laugh when I share the stories with my little girls and I know all “his girls” (grand-daughters included!) have many fond memories of him as well. Much Love, Michelle
Jane says
Brandon, I am so sorry to hear about your father. I know that it has been a rough road for you but through it all, you will become a stronger and better man. I am sure that your father will be so proud of you and all of your accomplishments. Sincerely, Jane
Gil and Celeste Berry says
We were both so sorry to hear of Rick’s passing. We always enjoyed seeing Rick and spending time with him. He was a good lawyer, a great person and always had a smile on his face. Please accept our sincere sympathy.
Susan Ewing says
of you all—Sue
Kelly Beikes says
Miss Elaine,
My deepest sympathys to you and the family. I am so very sorry for your loss. Please let me know if you need anything. Lots of love and hugs to you.
CINDY AND TONEY RUSK says
WHAT A GREAT GUY. I HAD SUCH A GREAT TIME WITH RICK AND HIS DAUGHTERS AT THE 500 RACE. HE WOULD ALWAYS BRING THE SPICY BLOODY MARY DRINKS TO THE HANEY’S. THEN WE WOULD GO TO THE TRACK AND PARTY. HIS LAUGH AND HIS JOKES WERE GREAT. HE WAS THE LIFE OF THE PARTY. HE LIKED THE CHICKEN LIVERS I WOULD BRING TO THE RACE. HE WAS A GREAT PERSON. I WILL MISS HIS LAUGHTER.
Bayard Bud Walters says
Always Hard to Be Left Behind. Here is a poem to share.
Bud Walters, DPU, Delta Chi 63
MISS ME BUT LET ME GO
When I come to the end of the road.
And the sun has set for me.
I want no rites in a gloom filled
room.
Why cry for a soul set free.
Miss me a little – but not too long.
And not with your head bowed low.
Remember the love that we once
shared
Miss Me – But Let Me Go
For this is a journey we all must
take
And each must go alone
It’s all part of the Master’s plan
A step on the road to home.
When you are lonely and sick of
heart
Go to the friends we know
And bury your sorrows in doing good
deeds.
Miss Me – But Let Me Go
Author Unknown
John Lisher says
Elaine –
I had the privilege of working for Rick when he managed the litigation section for City Legal. He was a tremendous lawyer and my mentor. I have tried to live up to his professional ideals and will never forget our good discussions at Pierponts about work and the practice of law. We will all miss him.
Dave Baxter says
Rick and I were roommates at Delta Chi and he was a good friend and supporter. My sincere condolences to his family.
Roger Nelsen says
I was saddened to learn of Rick’s passing. I have fond memories of our years together in Delta Chi at DePauw. You have my deepest sympathy in your loss.
Tracy Bria says
Elaine, Jenny & Erin,
We hope you find comfort in the many years of wonderful memories. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
The Brias
Bob Atcheson says
As a fraternity brother, I send by prayers to the family on this loss. I was proud to know a man of many accomplishments and contributions to those who he counseled.
Earl D Loveless says
Deepest condolences from a fraternity brother. Depauw Delta Chi ’63
Gusty Raikos says
I was saddened to learn of Rick’s passing. He was caring and bright. A warrior for those whose cause he championed, with a compelling presence punctuated by his quick wit and penchant for prose.
His thespian recitation of St. Barton’s Ode made it easy to deny his mortality. I keep close, his handwritten rendition thoughtfully delivered at a poignantly painful time in my life: “I am hurt, but I am not slain! I will lie me down and bleed awhile – then I’ll rise and fight again”.
For a number of years, a small group of us he dubbed as the Friday lunch bunch gathered each week with Rick’s uncanny ability to unearth the best of obscure eateries in town allowing us to do just that. I shall cherish always his friendship and the memories.
May God grant him peace and his memory be eternal.
Colleen Callahan says
Brandon, sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. I know the whole process was and is hard on you. Your dad was a great joke teller with a good sense of humor. Rick was a great attorney and I know it’s in your genes to be a great attorney also. You will do your dad proud.
Aunt Colleen
Pete Ranos says
The world has lost a great man, but heaven above has gained a loving angel.
My heart goes out to the entire Ewing family and friends…
Pete
Robin Stenzel says
Erin, Elaine and Jenny,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the little girls. I hope you all find the peace and comfort you Dad has with our Lord.
Much love,
Robin
Jody K Maley says
Dining at the roof top restaurant of the Palmer House in Chicago was a very impressionable moment Mr. Ewing made on me as a youngster helping with a case he was trying to the 7th Circuit Court of Appeals. I will always remember his sense of fun, big smile and booming laugh, as this young lady turned bright red at the sight of the barely attired waitresses. Watching his artistry in the courtroom was a delight and an education, creating a standard that has influenced my goals in practicing law.
Christine Steve says
Dear Elaine, Erin, and Jenny, We are so sorry about the loss of Uncle Rick, he will be missed by all of us. We are thinking about you and are sorry that we can’t be there with you. Love, Chris and Steve
Larry and Darleen Harris says
We always enjoyed being with Rick and Elaine and will remember him as the jovial, fun-to-be-with man he always was.
Eugene O Maley says
When Richard was attorney for the City of Indianapolis we were involved in a multi-party federal case that proceeded to trial and was eventually appealed to the 7th Circuit. My best memories of Richard involve his keeping us focused and organized as the matter proceeded. We had many long sessions taming the beast that is a federal case and it’s appeals. He brought a spirit of adventure to the table and was a tremendous professional who knew how to enjoy life.
Phil Caughran says
I am saddened to learn of Rick’s passing and especially his suffering at end of life. We were Delta Chi brothers and classmates at DePauw. Rick enjoyed his college experience to the fullest and brightened everything he touched with energy and humor. Sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
Mark Propst says
Erin –
We are very sorry for your loss and hope you find comfort in the many memories that you have of your father.
Sincerely,
Mark Propst
James F Little DDS says
Elaine and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I will always remember Rick as one of my favorite patients – slightly irreverent, but full of life.
Jim
Robert J Wampler says
I wish to extend my sympathy to the family. I was privilged to know and enjoy the humor that Rick brought to any situation. He will be missed.
Cheryl Ward says
My condolences to Rick’s son, Brandon and others that Rick held dear. I am happy that the pain and struggle for Rick is over and hope that like his father, Brandon may find peace.
Cheryl Ward
Jack Updike says
I just heard today of Ricks passing
I knew Rick, you might say “second handed”. My wife Sandi worked with Rick at Stewart-Irwin. Some of the stories she told of “the gang” could not go to print. I’m sure that Jim Stewart (had he known) would have made them all stand in the corner. Sandy passed away in 1985. I’m sure the two of them are giving someone up there a rough time. Once again, my heart felt condolences.