A Sad Goodbye
Richard Gerth, famous Disney cast member of the Grand Floridian, passed early this morning. He was 92.
Mr. Gerth greeted guests and assisted over 3,500 brides at the resort since 1991. In 2013, Richard was presented with the Walt Disney Legacy Award – the highest award any Disney cast member can receive.
For almost 30 years, Richard interacted with guests and, to some, became as much an important stop as Splash Mountain or Spaceship Earth. Some families would come by with their children and take a picture every year to show how they’d grown in comparison to Gerth.
“The children are now coming to think I’m a grandfather,” said Richard. “Your whole life is built on how you act to other people. I’m overjoyed every time I come here (the Grand).”
Please share your memories of Richard in the comments below.
wdwparkhoppers
WDW Parkhoppers are Parkhopper John and his wife, Parkhopper Sid and they love to share the magic of Walt Disney World. They can also be found at www.TeamParkhoppers.com, a non-profit organization that helps other non-profits raise money while also enjoying runDisney events. Living only 45 minutes from Walt Disney World, their lives are truly magical!
4 Comments
Colleen Passardi
So sad about Mr. Richard’s passing. He was such a sweet man who my family got to meet at the Grand Floridian. I was so happy to meet him- finally! My grandkids enjoyed speaking with him and he was so kind to them. We will miss him dearly, he was always apart of our Disney trips. The Grand Floridian will not be the same without seeing him greet us with his smile and kind words.
wdwparkhoppers
True. He will be missed. They don’t make them like Richard anymore!!
David Randle
Had many pleasant conversations with Richard at the Grand Floridian. He always somehow seemed to make the day a little brighter. He will be missed by many.
wdwparkhoppers
He was a special type of person and perfectly suited for his role at Disney. He is the last of a breed and will be sorely missed.