On 15 December 2012, during the compilation of the Point Reyes Christmas Bird Count in Point Reyes Station, Rich Stallcup passed away in a San Rafael hospital from complications of leukemia. Rich was a co-founder of that count in 1970 and had participated in it every year until 2012. The birding community in California lost a soul of incalculable value as a teacher, naturalist, tour leader, and indefatigable cheerleader for the natural world. His reputation extended far beyond the borders of California; he was well known in birding circles across North America. An ordinary memorial cannot express the depth of his influence on people and how many lives he touched during his time on this planet. In January 2013, more than 500 people, some from as far away as the east coast, attended a memorial service for Rich.