Richard Butterwick. Rich.

We met in 1986 at Newcastle University, two PhD students sharing an an office & ultimately an apartment. A geordie life revolving around ideas, music and the Trent House pool tables. Nights at Rockshots & The Mayfair with Joe Strummer, Inspiral Carpets, Neds Atomic Dustbin… those nights still resonate. Rich & Sarah were inseparable, even in those days – the ultimate cool & beautiful couple.

Rich moved through it all with quiet cool. Never loud, never trying too hard. Just effortlessly himself. Enigmatic, grounded.

We started at Waltham together in 1990. I left for China in 1996; Rich stayed and built his whole career there. That was him. Loyal, steady, doing things right, no fuss.

More recently, we stayed connected on Strava. Nottingham, Amsterdam, Sabine Hills. Different places, same steady signal. It mattered alot.

Rich was kind, gentle, decent, honest. And always a total dood. Also an amazing dad to Oscar, Felix & Liza. Well done Rich, what a legacy.

I saw him for the last time on March 13th 2026 – it was emotional and special when he held my hand and gave me that ‘look’. I wish I’d seen more of him. But I’m grateful for his long friendship.

Rich was special. I’ll miss him.

Rest easy, Rich.