Lee Richman

Lee Richman, died on Christmas morning 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering commitment to his family, profession, and community.  

Born on November 29, 1945, the son of two Doctors, Lee spent the first third of his life on the East Coast. Starting at just 5 years old, he began to take the train into New York City from Connecticut to spend time with his grandma Florence. Staying at Claridge's in London or turning the pages for her music while she played piano, he learned to appreciate the delights of the world from her. He moved to Colorado in the mid-70s to complete his medical fellowship and to ski. In early 1977, he met Jill at National Jewish Hospital where they were both doing research. It was love at first sight for Lee, and they married that fall.   

Lee was devoted to his family, where he played the roles of a loving husband, a supportive father, and a doting grandfather. His marriage of 46 years to his beloved Jill was a testament to enduring love and partnership. Despite the rigors of building a private medical practice and being on-call, Lee was always home for dinner. He loved raising his two daughters, Lauren and Julia. He proudly wore a pink hat at the Women’s March on Washington, taught Lauren and Julia to ski, helped shop for dresses for dances, was always willing to chaperone the school trip and was never squeamish about “girl” stuff. Later, he found immense joy in being “Doc Doc” to six grandchildren (Madeleine, Charlotte, Cian, Otto, Florence, and Frida). Deeply invested in the development of the moral character of his grandkids, he was also an expert at changing a diaper, planning adventures, and reading the characters in a story with lots of different voices.    

Lee's curiosity and love for learning were boundless, and he approached life with a sense of wonder that inspired inquiry in those around him. Lee was known for talking about where he would eat for dinner while eating lunch. He was so well traveled that while walking up a giant crater in Iceland he was heard saying, “I give it a “B”.” When Lee and Jill downsized to an apartment, his wine cellar got a lease of its own. He was a great dancer. He always explored new horizons with Jill by his side.  

As a dedicated doctor, he poured his heart into the practice of medicine. He found fulfillment in caring for his patients and embracing the art of healing. He had lifelong relationships with many of his patients. One patient regularly traveled to Colorado from Morocco just to see him, as there was no doctor on earth as competent and kind. Another patient was so ingrained in Richman family life, that Julia had a stuffed animal named after her. Lee was always enthusiastic about adopting the latest technology in his medical practice and life. He got the family the “internet” in the mid 80’s. He had a “car phone” when they had to be installed by a 3rd party. He loved learning about new technologies and was never afraid of change.   
 
Beyond his medical practice, Lee was a man of faith and a church leader, exemplifying the values of showing up, compassion, service, and community. He found great joy in his relationship with Jesus and believed forgiveness to be a treasure. His leadership touched the hearts of those around him, creating a lasting impact on his congregation and the wider community. 

A celebration of Lee's life will be held 7PM February 14th at the Korbel School of International Studies, 5th floor auditorium, at the University of Denver 2201 S. Gaylord St. Denver, CO 80210.