Richard N. Frissell, who passed away on Friday night, was the Supervisor of Music and Fine Arts for the Bloomfield School District.

Not only was Rich an arts administrator in Bloomfield, he was the parent of two very talented Bloomfield students. So most of us knew him as both an advocate of the arts in Bloomfield, and as a peer. He was an enthusiastic and tireless leader in the Bloomfield schools' arts community. His passion for music, and the fine and performing arts, was evident in the way he excelled at his job, supported his colleagues, and encouraged the students' work. His personal devotion to his family, and pride in their accomplishments, was always touching to witness. Rich was a valued member of the Bloomfield High School Music Parents' Association, and his friendship was of incalculable worth.

I offer my deepest sympathy to his wife, Ann Marie, and his children, Nathaniel and Elaina.

Posted by: Terry Byrne Doemling | Mar 13, 2006 12:36:47 PM

Thanks, Terry, for articulating what many of us have had on our minds. Rich was a wonderful man; he was a dichotomy of professional and parent. I love to think of the Supervisor of Fine Arts who was a Music Parents Association member hauling the flags across the field for the color guard during half-time shows and competitions. We, in our home, are feeling a great deal of grief for the loss of this educator, parent and friend.

Now is the time for all of us to pick up the gauntlet, and bring it forward, as Rich would have done. This is the least we can do.

The family has requested that memorial funds be made to Bloomfield High School for a new grand piano in his honor. These may be made through the Music Parents' Association of Bloomfield High School/Richard Frissel Memorial Piano Fund. If you require additional information, please contact us at the email address below, or speak to any other MPA of BHS member.

Posted by: nancy | Mar 13, 2006 9:27:42 PM