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Richard Herron Woodwell ‘79 was destined for business success from an early age. As a sixth grader growing up in the Pennsylvania town of Ligonier, Woodwell — who was an avid coin collector — would often trade coins with the elderly owner of a local jewelry shop.
For Woodwell, known to his friends as “Woody,” a childhood hobby would eventually lead to a lifelong career in investment banking, in which he worked as an equities trader for the New York firm Keefe, Bruyette & Woods. Woodwell, who served as Senior Vice President in the company’s trading department, was stationed on the 89th floor of World Trade Center Tower Two when the second hijacked jet struck the building.
He embarked on his career in investment banking immediately following graduation, initially working as a floor broker for Dean Witter at the Pacific Options Exchange in San Francisco. He married his wife Linda Preston in 1988, and soon afterward moved to Ho-Ho-Kus, N.J. Friends and family members remember a man devoted to his job and family in equal measure.
“He was dedicated to his work but not wrapped up in it,” wife Linda Woodwell said, telling how Woody coached soccer teams for two of their three young children, and often took the family on skiing vacations, in addition to spending summers on Cape Cod at their family’s house in Hyannisport.
While at Dartmouth, Woodwell excelled academically and was widely admired by his classmates. According to ’79 class president William Mitchell, Woody’s popularity was due to his adventurous and confident nature, and his sheer enthusiasm for life and friends.
Late one night at Dartmouth Woodwell was asked to make a run to the William Tally House, a 24-hour eating establishment located at the bus station in White River Junction. Such “Tally Rallies,” as they were known, were not uncommon, though Woody added the novel twist of driving clothed only in boxer shorts.
After skillfully explaining his predicament to police during a pullover on the interstate, Woodwell arrived at the Tally House only to be stopped by a “no shirt, no shoes, no service” policy. Undeterred, he donned a girl’s sweater conveniently found in the back of his car, placed two golf club covers on his feet, and successfully reentered the store.
“It obviously took a tremendous amount of casual confidence, and that’s why he was beloved by his classmates,” Mitchell said.
https://www.powerlineblog.com/archives/2013/09/dartmouths-911-4.php
I had the pleasure of working
I had the pleasure of working with Woody as co-sales traders in KBW's San Francisco office. He was always smart funny and empathetic. Although I hadn't seen him or Linda during the couple of years prior to their relocation east I had always considered them wonderful. Then the thing happened. I mourn and miss him still and hope his family is as well as it can be.
Posted by Robert Jigarjian
Oh Woody, even after all this
Oh Woody, even after all this time I can still hear your voice, asking for Jimmy. I was fortunate to have known you, even if it was over the phone. Always a gentleman, and always funny...you won't be forgotten.
Posted by Kimberly Softich (Miller)
Our friendship fast as it was
Our friendship fast as it was has never been forgotten. God Bless you Woody.
Posted by Kenneth Epley
I love the photo of you Woody
I love the photo of you Woody. Can't really say how many prayers I have sent your way, it's been many. You are still a treasured friend; I will not forget how you changed my life. Blessing to you!
Posted by Kenneth Epley
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