In Loving Memory - Richard McCoy

From Left to Right: Richard McCoy, Misty May Treanor and Mark Samuels at the Mikasa '04 Olympic Ad Photo Shoot.

By it's very nature the creative process, with its subjective nuances and mad dash deadlines, often forms strong friendships among co-workers and clients. The recent passing of my friend and former client Richard McCoy has caused me to stop and realize how important those friendships really are.

It was the early 90's when I was invited to a volleyball awards dinner in Santa Barbara. I sat at a table with folks I didn't know, until a cheerful man next to me shook my hand and joked how lucky I was to be able to sit next to him. Well, that was much truer than either of us would ever imagine, as that man was Richard McCoy, president of Mikasa Sports. For the next 22 years, Richard would entrust Mikasa's image to me and my staff, and we had a wonderful journey from day one. Mikasa flourished under Richard's leadership and vision, and to this day enjoys success from the relationships he nurtured.

Through the years we worked closely together with his devoted athletes on countless projects. Sinjin Smith, Misty May, and Phil Dalhausser to name a few. Richard's love of advertising and creative passion fueled our fire to always go above and beyond for him. His supporting demeanor, kind laugh and genuine friendship was so valued by myself and everyone he came in contact with.

When Richard retired from Mikasa, our friendship continued and we communicated on very different topics, the love of family and the truly important things in life. Richard loved being retired, loved spending time with his family and was close to finishing a beautiful waterfront home in Maine with his lovely wife Dale.

Richard honored me with his trust and friendship, I miss him very much and will hold on to the memories. My heart especially goes out to his family, thank you for sharing this wonderful man.

Mark Samuels Sr.
President, SDA Creative