Since then, hundreds of letters, phone calls and social media messages from around the world have flooded in.
“Dick was literally blown away with the outpouring of love and support,” Cathy said. “He loved reading those letters, he cried the whole day.”
🎶Always had high hopes, high hopes.....🎶 For the safety of everyone, doctors have recommended to pass on ‘a party’. I’m...
Posted by McNasty's on Friday, July 24, 2020
The couple planned to throw a goodbye party at the Rip Rap Road House, the historic barn where Dick founded the original McNasty’s tavern in 1976.
But Dick is “no longer physically up to the task,” and the plans have been canceled, Cathy said.
“I’m sure no one is as disappointed as me,” the McNasty’s Facebook page posted on Dick’s behalf. “But please know that I’m thinking of you all & we will have one hell of a blow out when we meet on the other side!!”
The couple has been touched to hear from decades of McNasty’s customers who share fond memories of Dick’s sense of humor and kindness.
“Dick never looked at it as a business, he looked at it as a family,” Cathy said.
Credit: DAYTON DAILY NEWS / WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
Credit: DAYTON DAILY NEWS / WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY SPECIAL COLLECTIONS
The food truck has been temporarily shuttered and Cathy is caring for Dick at home with help from hospice.
“The outpouring of love and support, it gives you the energy to move forward,” she said. “He was overwhelmed with love. It was a blessing for us.”
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