I would look forward to our discussions, and we could find common ground, and he had a great way to have a discussion without it creating tension or anger. Erich was one of the most intelligent and well-educated people that I have had the opportunity to meet. I could respect his opinions and he could lead me to a new point of view.

A couple of weeks ago, my wife and I were traveling on north Main Avenue, and a plastic bag blew across the road. I immediately called Erich and with our normal humor, accused him of planting that plastic bag so that I would see it.

In our 15-year friendship, he proved himself to be a visionary, not only in the political arena, but also in business. I will miss my friend, and I will not forget him.

Don Ricedorff

Durango