Radkin

Blue rising into the blue,
releasing the spirit
of the earth-loving man,
his soul soars into the beyond,
while we remain, arms raised,
our feet earth-bound,
clutching to our lives
that have been made richer
by the life of this man.
The balloons disappear,
gratitude, sadness, sweet memories,
linger in our hearts.

Poem written by Ann B. Day
at the Celebration of Radkin's Life and Balloon Launch
Shelburne Point, Shelburne, Vermont, August 26, 2012

 

Long time former Shelburne, Vermont resident Radkin was killed instantly in an accident on his property in Alburgh. He was found in March of 2012.

A Celebration of Radkin's Life was held on Sunday, August 26th, 2012 at 2 pm on Shelburne Point (where Radkin lived for many years). The day was breezy, hot (90 degrees) and absolutely beautiful. Definitely a day Radkin would have loved.

This was a very informal event, and all those present celebrated Radkin's life with stories and songs. It was clear by the number of friends attending just how loved Radkin was.

Born Richard A. Burgess on April 5, 1945 in Greenfield, MA, he was the son of the late Arthur E. and Anne (Beagarie) Burgess. He graduated from Deerfield Academy in 1964, and later legally changed his name to Radkin.

Radkin could frequently be seen riding his horse or mowing hay on the Point in the summer. He was well known in the area for his free spirit, his wit, his eccentricities, and his passion for many causes. He had a musician's soul, and thoroughly enjoyed playing the piano and guitar.

In his earlier years, Radkin lived and worked at the Mad River ski area until 1978 at which time he moved to Shelburne, where he then worked at the Shelburne Shipyard.

 

He later worked for decades as the caretaker of the Jackson family property on Shelburne Point, beginning in the late 1970's. He also worked for NRG in Hinesburg, and later worked assembling parts for windmills for NRG from his home . He lived a minimalistic, vegetarian lifestyle which was consistent with his concern for the planet.

He moved from Shelburne to Alburgh, where he purchased property in 2003.

The people whose lives were enriched by having known Radkin will miss him. And because he died a tragic and untimely death I hope this tribute gives some comfort to those of us who cared for and miss him.

We will never forget you, Radkin!

 
" All we have to do is tune into the right frequency" Radkin