Rick was a neighbor friend. We lived in Farrior Hills when Six Forks Road was 2-lane and before North Hills or even Lakemont were there. He, I and Bill Dawkins hung out building tree houses, camping out, hitchhiking to Hayes-Barton pool where we developed an eye for the girls. Other neighbors included Debbie Crowell, Rachel Herring, Janie Burns, George Pittman and others I can't think of right now. His family moved from Philadelphia in the summer of our 4th or 5th grade. We went to Our Lady of Lourdes elementary school. We both switched to Broughton from Catholic school. Rick was a good guy with a tough guy image he often portrayed - maybe his Philly upbringing. Rick was a full partner in a business his dad started, Ashcroft's On The Spot Saws and Tools. They had a bread truck converted to a saw sharpening service for industrial users. They starved for awhile but they were too proud to talk about it. I was very happy for them when it started paying off. I was with Rick when we walked in to the new Bobby Murray Chevrolet on Capital Blvd - way out on the outskirts of town! Mr. Murray himself came out as we drooled over a bright yellow 1967 (or 8) Chevelle fastback with a 396 cubic inch engine. Mr. Murray very confidently said, "I'm gonna sell you this car today, son." And he did. Rick went to NC State for a while. The last time I saw Rick he was happily married with 2 boys living in Stonehenge off Creedmoor Road. We laughed about some of our antics growing up. He later had lung problems and died from complications. I miss him.
Should Rick's wife or boys see this, i would be glad to talk to you about Rick if you have any questions or would like to reminisce with me. My cell # is 919-395-0001
I want to compliment Frank for writing such detailed memories of his childhood friend. It is wonderful that we are having this chance to reflect before our reunion. Richard was such a nice guy. I am so sorry to hear of his passing.
Frank J. Urben (Urben)
Rick was a neighbor friend. We lived in Farrior Hills when Six Forks Road was 2-lane and before North Hills or even Lakemont were there. He, I and Bill Dawkins hung out building tree houses, camping out, hitchhiking to Hayes-Barton pool where we developed an eye for the girls. Other neighbors included Debbie Crowell, Rachel Herring, Janie Burns, George Pittman and others I can't think of right now. His family moved from Philadelphia in the summer of our 4th or 5th grade. We went to Our Lady of Lourdes elementary school. We both switched to Broughton from Catholic school. Rick was a good guy with a tough guy image he often portrayed - maybe his Philly upbringing. Rick was a full partner in a business his dad started, Ashcroft's On The Spot Saws and Tools. They had a bread truck converted to a saw sharpening service for industrial users. They starved for awhile but they were too proud to talk about it. I was very happy for them when it started paying off. I was with Rick when we walked in to the new Bobby Murray Chevrolet on Capital Blvd - way out on the outskirts of town! Mr. Murray himself came out as we drooled over a bright yellow 1967 (or 8) Chevelle fastback with a 396 cubic inch engine. Mr. Murray very confidently said, "I'm gonna sell you this car today, son." And he did. Rick went to NC State for a while. The last time I saw Rick he was happily married with 2 boys living in Stonehenge off Creedmoor Road. We laughed about some of our antics growing up. He later had lung problems and died from complications. I miss him.
Should Rick's wife or boys see this, i would be glad to talk to you about Rick if you have any questions or would like to reminisce with me. My cell # is 919-395-0001
Louise H. Hube (Bame)
I want to compliment Frank for writing such detailed memories of his childhood friend. It is wonderful that we are having this chance to reflect before our reunion. Richard was such a nice guy. I am so sorry to hear of his passing.
Frank J. Urben (Urben)
Thank you Louise, my comments were from the heart.