In Memory of Dick Miller
Dick Miller (Richard Mills) June 29, 1945 – June 28, 2008
WESTWOOD, Calif. - Legendary adult director/producer and AVN Hall-of-Famer Dick Miller (real name Richard Mills) passed away Saturday on the eve of his 63rd birthday. The cause of death is listed as a self-inflicted gunshot wound, an apparent suicide. Miller had been struggling with professional setbacks as well as an escalation of the effects of Myasthenia Gravis, the neuro-muscular disease that he suffered with for several years.In the adult entertainment industry, Miller directed movies under the nom de porn Richard Mailer. Miller was best known as the founder/owner of Island Home Video which later became Intropics Video, after which he acquired Soho Video. Most recently Miller chose the life of an expatriate, spending the last decade in Prague, Czech Republic where he directed and produced movies that had been distributed by many of the leading manufacturers including Wicked Pictures. He also created Blue Lights View, a gay video label distributed by Pulse Distribution.An orphan since childhood, Miller’s formative years were spent in foster homes. As a young adult living in Minnesota, he enrolled in the military service. His work in the adult industry spanned over four decades. While he had no immediate family, Miller was one of the most beloved figures in the business. His circle of friends was extensive and well-established, both in the United States and Czech Republic. Miller will be remembered as an erudite raconteur, bon-vivant, itinerant Elvis Presley and Bruce Springsteen fan and avowed lifelong bachelor.”I am completely devastated,” said AVN founder Paul Fishbein. “I lost a close member of my family. All of the photographs I found on his digital camera were of my daughter and wife. He wanted to show everyone I knew in Prague pictures of my kid. I can’t even believe we’re talking about this.”Miller had been visiting in the United States since May attending to business and personal issues. Dick Miller is survived by a who’s-who of adult industry giants, a testament to his enduring friendships and infectious personality. Private services will be held on Saturday, July 19. For more information please contact Paul Fishbein at (818) 718-5788. If you have any personal memories of Dick you would like to share we invite you to please do so here.
Dick was not only a very close friend of mine but in many ways a father figure to me. He used to sign all his emails and messages, “Love Dad”. On my birthdays he would always call to let me know that his son’s birthday is one of the few things he hasn’t forgotten. I had planned to spend a few days with Dick at his home in Prague last week however he was not feeling well enough to make the trip home. Instead he communicated with me via sms every day insuring that I was being treated properly in his hometown. Spending time with his Czech friends makes one realize how well liked and admired Dick was to so many. As for his girlfriends, I figure that if our staff starts today, we should be able to contact everyone by mid 2012.
Dick, I will miss you calling me on my birthday, I will miss you singing Bruce Springsteen to me in the mornings, I will miss you yelling at me when I overflow the Jacuzzi, I will miss your dancing on the furniture, I will miss you talking through the movies, and simply I will miss you.
PS: I’m sorry for flooding your house- I let the Jacuzzi run too long
However I did it in a style only you would appreciate!
Back in the day, I shot a lot of movies for Dick Miller; including one of his “Taboos”, in which I played a small part and got to ride a horse.
I like him a lot. he was an “all in” kind of guy…
Rest in peace Dick Miller.
Henri Pachard
We used to call each other Obri. We had so much fun together. Last time I saw him it was in Budapest, we were in a restaurant that has a beautiful view of the castle. We smoked cigars and he said: “would be great to stop the time just for a second”. He said he’s very happy that I got married with a wonderful guy and he’s even happier that he has a cigar shop, so he can get the best cigars :o)
Obri, I miss you a lot, I can’t believe that you’re gone. I waned you to see my baby. I love you very much.
Rest in peace.
Your Obri
….Anita
I only met Dick a couple weeks ago when he was out on a visit with Paul. I found him immediately likable, fun, and gregarious. I feel very lucky to have spent a short amount of time in his presence. My thoughts are with all those who were lucky enough to call him a friend.
Dick Miller was one of the first people I met in the industry. He was there one my first date with CSM…I remember walking up to the bar and he said “wow..babe…do you have novacain in those nipples”. He was always there as a friend when CSM and I started our family and I have pics. of Kurt (#1 son) and Dick in his backyard. Dick was a wonderful kind man and I will miss him as will my sons. I hope that he will be reincarnated as a sexy blonde chick….thanks for all the fond memories and love. Peace and Blessings
To his friends that are confused and sad…I am sorry…he loved you all. Thanks for being there for him……….
UNCLE DICK,UNCLE DICK ! Those were always the first words out my mouth whenever we spoke. I have not seen Dick Miller in years. He was living in Prague and I am here in NYC. But I can honestly say that I learned some of the most important things from him. First was “Never Generalize.” He hated when people blamed all for the crime of one. The other was not to be jealous of anyone. One thing about Dick Miller, he was always happy for you. If you came uopn good fortune he would always be the first to help you celebrate and NEVER gave a “What about me” a thought.
One more thing….a personal note between me and Dick. Uncle Dick, I am still listening to Raul Malo and Junior Brown. An introduction to their music is one of the best things anyone has ever given to me. So, if you are listening, I thank you and I will be thinking of you everytime I hear one of their songs.
Wow…I am blown away.
I loved Dick Miller. He was one of the first people I met when I started at GVA 25 years ago. He was the best.
Dick and I would drive around San Francisco and have a great time.
He would tell me to pull over everytime we saw some girl standing on the corner. “Pull over Howard”, and I would say, “Dick, she’s not a hooker”, and he would say “I know, just pull over anyhow.”
Dick was the kind of guy that would do anything for you, I will miss him very much.
I must say something about the way we lost Dick Miller, lenny Friedlander, Jon Dough and others in the last few years.
I don’t understand it, i will never understand it.
Things are usually the darkest before the dawn, it will always get better, even if it gets worse first.
So many people loved these guys, and they will be sorely missed.
RIP Dick.
Howard
Dickie, Dickie, Dickski or Ditchski (when we left him behind by mistake in Cuba for a few hours). I met him many years ago in Prague and he was one of my very close friends. I have traveled the world with Dick and we always had an amazing time where ever we went. For new years for the millenium I didn’t know where to go so I decided to spend it with Dickie in Prague. It was a great choice and we had a blast. He always had such a reception when we arrived in Prauge, he would even meet us at the tunnel when we exited the plane. Not sure how he did it but he would do anything for a friend! For Dick’s 60th B-day we went to Ibiza and it was another incredible memory. Whether we were in Europe, South America or Cuba everyone who he met loved him. He had an amazing sense of humor and a great outlook on life. I always said that when I grow up I want to be just like Dick. I was blown away to hear the terrible news but I will always remember the great times that we shared. I will miss him terribly and never forget him!
I am so sorry to hear this news. There aren’t many of the early pioneers of the industry still around, and this loss is most disturbing. I send my deepest condolences to everyone whose life was enriched by knowing and loving Dick Miller.
Dick was a sweet man whom i liked instantly and knew way too briefly. many times when i dreaded coming into the office there would be an email from Dick that made me feel better about the day. those of you who had the opportunity to know him longer my heart goes out to you. He was a friend even if just for a short time and i was very lucky to have met him.
Dick Miller…..the legend…..I don’t think anyone else could have possibly talk me into doing voice over’s for gay porn (I still laugh about it)….He was an amazing person and I had the great pleasure of being introduced to him through Hal and Paul…He made me piss my pants laughing in Brazil on Hal’s 40th and reprimanded me for using his toilet in Prague…(it was only to be used by the women)….He was one of the most kind hearted, generous people that I have had the pleasure of knowing. I wish I could have spent a few more good times with him.
You will be missed!
From Joe Donato, a well-known member of the Adult industry for more than 30 years, had known Dick for the length of that time. I remember a time when riding horse back in the mountains, my horse had stumbled and fell on top of me. I looked up at Dick from my prone position, to see him take 2 valliums becuase he was so nervous and concerned about me laying on the ground. Also present on that day was Chuck Zane and Lenny Freidlander, who just sat there and laughed at my predicament. Dick was a close friend of mine for more than 30 years, and will be missed by all who knew him. Good by old friend.
I will always remember Dick Miller as the most friendly and honorable person i have ever met; although we were not as close as some of his friends we always talked as if we were long lost buddies. One time my wife and daughter were visiting in Praque and he took them out to dinner and showed them the city like they were family even went to his home! I will miss you Dick Miller and remember all the good deeds you did for everyone. I will especially miss your laughter when we spoke. You always made me smile.
Paul & to the AVN Staff - thank you for letting us remember Dickie in a most memorable way. He will always be remembered and loved by Barry, Cynthia, Norman, Valeria, Jonathan, and our entire family.
I spent some of my most memorable time with Dickie….. in bars, casinos, and whore houses throughout the world.
His smile was infectuous,
His attitude was inspiring
His childlike behavior, as pure as his heart
And a heart as pure as gold.
A bad boy…….A great man……Womanizer………Whoremonger……….Cad……………Terrible gambler….. Way too generous and trusting for his own good………But the best fucking friend you could have……….That was our Dickie.
He lived life on his own terms………and knowing Dickie……..Right now……..hes got that stupid smile on his face……..surrounded by that ridiculous blond hair that only he could have……..walking up to God with his hand out……..with that quick unique laugh that we all can remember…….and convinced that he……..and only he……. can convince God to let Dickie have the exclusive porn rights………for heaven………..In perpetuity of course
So Long Pal……..U did Good
Marc
Dick Miller was a class act all the way. I had the pleasure of traveling with him recently, and there was always a smile on his face and love in his heart even when the journey was difficult. I know I’ve ever said this before, and wont ever again but what this world needs is more ” Dick’s”!
farewell
Dick Miller was a special guy.He was one of those guys that you would quote to other people.He used to refer to himself as “The Law West of DeSoto ” back in the day.One time he instigated a little scam we pulled at the Red Onion.He put a couple of signs up saying girls were wanted for a poster to be shot, like one of those “Haulin’ Ass” posters. No pay or anything, you just got to be in the poster.So, if you want to be on the poster be at the Red Onion on such and such date.Well, we made “application forms” and brought a polaroid camera ;a friend brought a limo he parked outside. Sure enough about 50 girls show up fill out the paper work , take a picture and get interviewed.Except one thing,there was no poster; it was all a scam to get the chicks PHONE NUMBERS !!….. One time in Vegas he woke up and accidentally brushed his teeth with Preparation H….I loved Dick Miller too..One of those things he used to say kind of applies to trying to make sense of why this happened…
I remember Dick saying ” Logic is a joke in the face of emotion “…..
I saw Dick Miller in Prague, right before he left for the States. we had a great laugh sharing stories about our new job: him with the gay movies and me with the big girls and the grandma movies I started to shoot a few months ago. Dick was in a very good mood and although he was upset about not shooting movies with nice young beautiful girls he was taking his new venture with philosophy and he told me that he was hoping to pick up some deals in USA… Dick was a no nonsense type of guy and certainly a man of his word and I was extremely saddened by the news and all of us in Prague have lost a beloved friend.. I have known Dick since 2000 and I always told him that he was younger in spirit than many who are 30 years younger than him. he had incredible energy and a love for life that I have rarely seen.. May he rest in peace and from all of us here in Prague, we love you Dick Miller.
Dick was the greatest. He was one of my very first friends 25 years ago when I got in the business. We stayed friends for many years until we both decided to become expats in opposite directions of the world. Despite that, I still feel a loss as I know everyone else does. R.I.P. pal.
Wow I just found this and am so blown away.
I was just in Paul Fishbeins office shooting We are the world xxx not more than a week ago and he mentioned Dick Miller was in town. i said Wow He is my old boyfiend, within seconds he was handing his cell phone off to me and Dick and i were chatting as the years just melted.Dick Miller was the most infectious adorable man, he took my cell number and promised to call me back when i got into my car and never did. i actually have been thinking about him all week hoping that he would remember and call me.
This is just devestating news. the last thing i said to him was we were really boyfreind and girlfreind not like these booty calls today and he said ” Damn right sweetie i still love you”.We actually lived together and loved each other dearly for a time and have always held a fondness and support for each other through the years. I am so saddened at this loss of our family.
May you rest gently with your God and your soul find the peace you deserve my friend.
I love you,
Laura
Dickie, I am sad…. We spent such nice day together in L.A. 3 weeks ago, you always made me laugh,
I loved your sense of humour. Remember we went shopping that day, I could feel you were happy !
I will really miss you.
Rest in peace Dickie.
P.s. I will wear that green t-shirt today for you!
I remember when i first met Dick Miller he sweep me off my feet! I fell so hard for him, his sweet, charming and kind heart! Dick is a great man, he spoke what was on his mind he never held back to speak the truth! He was a wonderful person to know he made me laugh all day everyday! I spent some wonderful times Dick and he gave me unconditional love and made sure i was never in harms way! I love you and i miss you dearly! My pray goes out to his family and friends who lived and adored him as much as i did! I love you Dick Miller, forever you will be in my heart!!! We had a ball and we will again!!! Love never ends!!!
Working for you at Intropics was the reason I stayed in the Adult Industry. I never forget how excited you were for me, having the first Intropics baby! You loved my little girl, always made sure we had everything we needed. She’s 18 now, and still has the tiger you gave her from the Mirage. I love you Dick, and you will forever be in our hearts.
Sharen Taylor
I am in shock and extremely saddened over the passing of Dick Miller. Dick was one of the most outgoing, fun-loving and generous men that I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I was lucky enough to be introduced to Dick through Hal Roseman in Prague for Millennium New Years where he opened his beautiful home and showed us the city like no other. I will NEVER forget Dick. He was one of a kind, he lived every day with a love for life and beautiful women. His passing is a great loss for all the knew him.
Dick..we only had great times together…always laughing at how ridiculous this fucking world is. Always in wild and crazy situations. And the best time we ever had was a few weeks ago in TEL AVIV with Mike P. I only wish that when we were talking and laughing that I understood your pain….Rest in peace…You will be missed more than you will ever know…….and certainly never forgotten.
I met Dick in 1975 when he was shooting in New York and I was in the floor covering business. We became very close friends since then and shared
many times together. We enjoyed Plato’s retreat together and spent a lot of party time at his loft on 5th Ave and 20th street. Later on Dick & I Became partners in Intropics and Soho and lived in the same house for many years. He was a dear friend and as close to me as a Brother. We shared many days and nights together and although we parted a few years ago he never left my heart. I have always loved Dick and am blown away by this loss. He was a very important part of my life and I’ll never ever forget him.
Dick, old buddy I miss you and love you very much.
Please rest in peace, you deserve it.
Dick was the one when I was real young like 11 or so (I’m 30 now) and he told me about the concept of “suspension of disbelief” I still remember the day. He took me to TGI Fridays and a Dodger game. We were sitting in his Red Caddy El Dorado listening to Jimmy Cliff and talking about grown up stuff. I will always remember that crazy hair and great sense of humor and that one skank he brought to my GRANDMAS 80TH B-DAY. Pure class man. Love you.
Dick, you remember the slot cars races coming down the hill from Bryan’s house? Someday I’ll tell you just how much I enjoyed those times.
Rest in Peace.
I met Dick about 4 years ago in Prague and I must say I was immediately impressed by his amazing energy.
We became very close friends less than a year ago.
Actually we were neighbors since April.
I first would like to have a few words for all his friends in the U.S.
He only used top class compliments and nice words when he was speaking about you, Paul, Stan, Marc and many others. He loved you so much; you were his family.
Dick was a wise man, he could have been my father and I would have been very proud of it actually.
Talking with Dick was a delight; he was able to say clever things in a very funny way, Dick you just made me laugh and smile so much… you were unique.
Last time I was in contact with Dick was on Thursday 26th of June, I was just telling him his friends were asking for some news, and we were all expecting him to come back to Prague very soon.
Dick, I promise I will be good, I will take care of Nat like no other, and I will never forget all the nice words you had for her and me…
I will miss hugging you; I will miss making fun of you when you were singing Elvis in your Toys’R’Us microphone…
I feel so sad now, for the first time you are not making me laugh Dick…
You were the King
I miss you so much Mon Ami…
Like many of you I have so many Dick storie I could fill this entire blog. I first met Dick in Spain in 1973. My best friend Brian and I were standing on our apartment balcony and saw this crazy long hair guy with a suede fringe jacket walk by and we said “hey, are you from LA?” The next day he moved in with us. Dick and I ended up traveling from Spain to Greece on an epic journey. With Dick I always felt that I was just along for the ride. Dick held court in every county we passed through, whether it was getting arrested in Barcelona, entertaining a group of Italian students on a very long train ride ( just speak spanish, put an o or an i after every word and wave your hands around he said….and it worked!!). We were in Greece for less than 2 weeks and someone asked him to open a disco in the local town. Which he did. No surprise!
Above all Dick always loved family and friends. He was the most generous person in the world. He became my daughter Jamie’s godfather in 1986 and always loved her and her brother Marco (see above). I’ll never forget the time he showed up at our house on Jamie’s 4th or 5th birthday with a huge pink electric Barbie corvette. Keeping with tradition he sent her money on her 16th birthday to buy a car.
One last memory…as Marco so fondly remembers, when Dick attended my Mom’s 80th birthday ( she loved him, as did my entire family ) with that 20 year old Russian stripper. He instantly became a folk hero to all of my male cousins and nephews. They still talk about it to this day. My Mom is celebrating her 95th birthday in October and was expecting Dick to attend her party and everyone was looking forward to meeting another 20 year old stipper!
So many wonderful memories of a wonderful, kind, compassionate, crazy, unpredictable, larger than life friend. We will all miss you Uncle Dick and will always cherish the time we had together.
Adios Tio from all your friends and extended family in Northern California
Rob, Jessica, Marco and Jamie
Dick was my godfather and I loved him very much. He always made me feel so special to him, like I was a real part of his family. He would always send me emails on my birthdays and loved hearing about my life. I still have the New Kids on the Block sleeping bag he bought me at Toys R Us when I was little. I haven’t seen him in a long time, but always think about him and will miss him very much. I love you and you will always be a part of me.
Jamie Jean
I met Dick about 4 years ago in Prague and I must say I was immediately impressed by his amazing energy.
We became very close friends less than a year ago.
Actually we were neighbors since April.
I first would like to have a few words for all his friends in the U.S.
He only used top class compliments and nice words when he was speaking about you, Paul, Stan, Marc and many others. He loved you so much; you were his family.
Dick was a wise man, he could have been my father and I would have been very proud of it actually.
Talking with Dick was a delight; he was able to say clever things in a very funny way, Dick you just made me laugh and smile so much… you were unique.
Last time I was in contact with Dick was on Thursday 26th of June, I was just telling him his friends were asking for some news, and we were all expecting him to come back to Prague very soon.
Abel Casarrubias Y Family ,
Dick was the best and i never told him. The last 5 years we was always together almost every day. For breakfast, or for party.We looked like old couple. argue often and laughed non stop. Incredible man full of generosity and sens of humour. I was call him my chevalier. Always with me against bad people. For Dick i will continue but i feel alone like never.
Dick, you are the best.
I am at a loss for words, this is one of the saddest days of my life.
The world has lost a great human being.
When I left the business in America & moved to Prague, Dick took me under his wing and introduced me to everyone. I owe my life here to Dick 100%. Dick was not only a friend, but he became like my adopted Father. I will truely miss him, & the good times we had.
I hope you have found peace.
I love you my friend,
Dillon.
Although there wasn ‘t a lot of contact anymore with Dick, I often thought about him, assuming he was doing ok… In the early days, whenever I was in L.A. and later Prague het let me stay his place; he made me don ‘t even think of staying somewhere else. And whenever he was in Amsterdam he stayed my place…All these great times and laughs we shared now come back to me. One time, more than 10 years ago already he asked me, ‘hey Cees, can ‘t you help me set up a back account in Holland’? Eeehhh sure, no problem. I contacted the bank manager and he prepared everything. Only when Dick came in to the bank’s office and tried to activate the account there was a bit of a problem. The registration process was completed under the name of Dick Miller..How was I supposed to know that that was an alias? The bank manager than called it off.
When I first got to know him I was immediately impressed with his hospitality, genuine friendliness and he was funny as hell. And his knowledge of especially European history(!) was surprising. Where did he ever pick that up?
Well, I hope you’ve found your peace my friend and I’ll smoke a few tonight in loving memory of one the greatest characters ever I was so lucky to meet.
Genuinely caring, happy go lucky, GIVING beyond his means. Whenever I was with him, whether in LA or Prague, Dickie ALWAYS had a smile and a between you and me joke(loved that). He had a bounce in his step as if nothing could get him down. If he even sensed you were not feeling great, he’d comfort you and make it all better.
I’m going to miss ya pal, but am certain you’re still around in spirit….
Forever in my Heart!!!!!!!!
I wish I could have seen you again Dick. It’s been at least 15 years. You were one of the first people I met in the industry back in the Essex days. I thought that this industry must be a kick if there were more people like you.
You oozed over with your fun personality and charm. You really left an impression on me.
I’ll never forget you Lil’ Dicky Miller.
I always stayed at Dick’s place in Prague when i was there and must say he always took care of me big time. Showed me around the city and all the best places. Had a great time together and he was just such a nice and great guy. Unfortunately last couple of years after i stepped out of the adult industry we didn’t see each other anymore but my thoughts were with him. Dick was one of the original caracters and we will miss him deeply.
…..wish I could spent more time with this special guy……Dick was for me endless inspiration in many ways…thanks for all cowboy with the biggest open heart !!!!!!!
Dear Dick,
I’m so sorry you felt like you had to leave us. I wish you knew how much we are missing you. You were one of the nicest persons I knew, friendly, generous and sensitive, always minding others.
Losing you is as if a tsunami had passed through my family, it leaves us devastated and empty.
Any of Dick’s friends who did not receive an e-mail from me and who want to attend his July 19 Celebration, please contact me at paulf@avn.com. Thank you to everyone who wrote something here.
Dick What to do ! ? What to be ! ? right now ….. I m very glad and Proud to met you
You ll be in my Soul Forever .
Respect and Peace Pat Heart
I met Dick in January, 1975 in New York while I was being interviewed for an article in Penthouse Magazine. When I sat down at a table with Dick, I knew within minutes he was going to be my best friend for the rest of my life and that’s exactly what happened. He came to my first Escape From Mexico Party. He was in my wedding, Panama, Jamaica, Columbia, Aruba, and of course, Prague. But I didn’t go to those places to be there, I went to be with Dick. Whether it was lounging on a couch watching endless movies or in the kitchen cooking up a bowl of chili, Dick brought adventure to my life. Also, here in North Carolina he always knew he had a safe place to recoup, to rest, to be nurtured back to health, and, occasionally, to hide out. He has a large contingent of friends in Carolina too. Dick didn’t have magic; he was the magician who drew people to him. There is now a huge hole in my heart that can never be filled. He called me the morning of his death and said he just wanted to hear my voice. He asked to speak to Cyndy, my wife, but she had left for work. He said he would try to call back, but never did. Dick, if only I could hear your voice now. You know I’m mad at you for leaving us. The world will have less chili pepper pants now that you are gone. I loved you brother. Steve
What to say, when heart crying… and how much we miss You, you see from sky… than just THANK YOU, THANK YOU and thank You million times, because you know.. Dicku, chran nase duse prosim, safe ours spirit please, with LOVE … forever Yours máca buldok
Dick was one of the finest people I have ever known. There have been many, many good times with Dick with many fond memories. He was one of the original three Derby brothers. He will be missed. Gone, but never to be forgotten.
We loved spending time with Dick in Prague, he showed true hospitality and friendship to all that graced his door. He even let us bring the dog and let us sleep in his bed. A dear person that we will miss.
I am still stunned and shocked over getting the word that our friend Tio Ricardo (Uncle Dick) was no longer with us. I along with Rob met him over 35 years ago in Spain. Over those years we lived together in Spain and in London, in Los Angeles when I moved down to work with Dick at the beginnings of Intropics, and in Northern California whenever “politics” required that he not be in the LA area. We spent countless Thanksgivings together; many of them in the SF Bay Area because of his desire to escape LA during the holiday season, which he always hated. Besides, who else but Dick would show up for a Thanksgiving dinner with a completely frozen turkey along with a hair dryer he was planning to use to defrost it? He has always been the source of amazing stories, which revolved around some of the “unique” events and situations that we found ourselves in. Dick was one of those larger than life characters that you rarely get into your life. I miss his sense of humor, his zest for life, his singing and the affection that he showed to my wife Kati and to our daughter Elizabeth. He was generous to a fault and had the unique ability to connect and converse with anybody regardless of age or background. I guess we will never know what led up to the decision made by Dick that it was time for him to go. In our last conversations and emails he was excited about planning a 35 year reunion and going back to Spain with Rob and I, but he was also frustrated by the state of his business and with his battle with Myasthenia Gravis.
In the end Dick lived life entirely on his terms and left it the same way – but all of us wish that he could have stayed with us longer.
We love you and miss you – Brian, Kati and Elizabeth
The day we got the message that Dick has passed away was the saddest day in our lives. We had been working with Dick for more than 8 years, here in Prague. We cannot find the right words to show how disappointed we are. We hope Richard is doing well up there. We’ll never forget you, Dickie, we miss you so much - Vita & Tomas & Miroslav
I met Dick a while back at Steve & Cyndy Wilson’s house here in North Carolina. After about 10 minutes I knew I had a very special friend. He was one of the rare ones that don’t come along very often and are sorely missed when they are gone.
Dick, I never did get the midget you were supposed to throw in your suitcase on this trip! You will never be forgotten here, and if I ever find that movie for you I’ll make up the pictures you wanted in your honor. And I’ll display them proudly. The movies will always make me think of you.
Keep an eye on Alaska for us Dick, even though the odds are still 100 million to 1.
Be at peace my friend,
Joe
Joe
I still can’t believe that you’re gone. I wish that you could read all of these beautiful things people are saying about you, you were so loved by so many people and I truly hope you knew that before you decided to go. I wish there was something we could have said or done to keep you here, but I guess this is what you wanted and now you can be at peace. I loved talking to you about all of your travels, and the time Kindra and I visited you in Prague will always be one of the greatest trips I’ve ever taken. Thank you for always being so supportive and loving and kind to me-you lived a life that was fuller and richer than anyone I’ve known and I’ve always aspired to be as free as you were. I love you and will miss you for the rest of my life.
Dickie, my dear Dickie i love you forever but you deserved “par facek”
Jerry
Hi Dickie,
good luck on your last way and you stay in our hearts as we remeber you
Dave
From the first time we met at your loft in NYC to the many, many great times in Prague you always lived life to the fullest. A life many could only dream about. Thanks for the great memories Dick. Be at peace my friend.
I met Dick over 15 years ago at Steve and Cyndy’s. I was all set to dismiss and judge him. Instead I was entranced by his class, his humor and his casual elegance. He was one of a kind. Steve and my husband Bill had two great weeks with him a couple of years ago at his home in Praque. We had some funny times over that trip….limo’s, photos, emails. Dick had a great sence of humor! He was warm, kind, generous and thoughtful. My dear friends loved him without reservation. I feel lucky to have known him at all. I wore one of the t-shirt s Cyndy and Steve had made in his memory the other night at dinner. We all toasted to him. I know he was there and I have to believe he’s at peace now.
Ilene Cox
Dear Dick, I am affraid to write something stupid but I am sure that you would underestand
I do miss you and I promise the best afterparty was in your place!! You was warm person with great personality and you gave so good energy to people. I am angry that you will never hug me again and call me your baby. You was one of my best friends and I wish we could have spend more time together! I hope it was your decision and you rest in peace! Love, K.
Wish you were here. But I think, you still are. Miss you and I know that ain´t the only one. I hope that once, we will meet again. Thank you what you did for me. I also wish I told you before. And many many other thinks…
Always with Love,
Your Klara
Dickie, WOW! I can’t believe you are gone. We have so much history together. I will treasure every memory. The early years in New York, the discos, Little Italy, Hop Kee’s in China Town and the time just spent hanging around in the loft. How fun was sailing in Belhaven in “Lake Lowenbrau” with the family. And, of course, the days in Prague with just you, me and Steve.
I will always love you. I will love you more and more as time goes on. Cyndy
Hey Dick, I guess I am one of the last people to make a comment. 1st emotion: shock 2nd emotion: tremendous grief 3rd emotion: confusion 4th emotion: anger That’s right, old pal, I’ve been ANGRY at you for these last 10 days, so that’s why I’ve waited so long to write you this. 5th emotion: plain old sadness Yeah, after 10 days my anger is finally gone, but I still gotta ask ya, WHY?? I sure hope it wasn’t because you thought you weren’t loved - just read all these comments, dude. You were one of the few people who everyone you met wanted to be your best friend. I’ve probably known you longer than anyone who is left alive - 39 years. I can still see you talking to hippie chicks from the steps of our old apartment building on Sunset Blvd in 1969, with a wine glass in your hand, before you got into the movie biz. I still have your pair of immaculate “white bucks” like Pat Boone wore. You can come and get them anytime. Well, everything else has already been said about you as I read these comments. I must say “ditto” to all of them. Thanks for the memories, advice, and endless good times. Save a seat on the train for me wherever you are…………..
I loved Dick Miller very much and we always spent quality time together when he came to Los Angeles. He stayed at a condo right down the street from where I live and loved to drive my second car, a Jeep, around town. But I think my fondest memory will be all the mornings he woke me up at 6 AM so we could meet down the street at the Coffee Bean. He liked his coffee but what Dick really loved was the Rice Crispy marshmallow treats– we would cut one in half every morning. Speaking of those mornings, it was sad when he shared how business was bad and he was about to lose his legendary penthouse. But in those storms, he was also extraordinarily positive and genuinely believed some high-end deal he was working on would materialize and he would be back on track. To myself, I prayed that would be the case because we all very much loved Dick.
Although Dick and our mutual friends were sorry I never traveled to Prague to witness him in his glory, I don’t give a shit. The memories I have, when we shared times together in LA, were glorious enough. Dick was indeed a class act, refined but also a bit of a cowboy and he loved the finer things life has to offer. After talking with many people and remembering this gentleman as I do, I can understand why he took his life, regardless of how unhappy this made us.
A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away I wrote a short poem the very evening someone I cared about suddenly passed away– if by any chance it gives comfort to someone, then that’s a good thing– here it is:
The Passing of the Times
Where is one’s spirit when they find out someone they love is gone?
It’s with them and it’s not.
A feeling of loneliness is a feeling of wanting to sleep but something’s staying awake.
To realize my long lost friend is gone is reality.
To know he is still living as a spirit is truth.
And to understand the relationship between us now is infinite.
MJN
I stayed with Richard for a few weeks in Aug. 2006. It was the first time that I really had a chance to meet him. Richard made me feel at home from the start. His humor was one of the first things I noticed about him. After spending some time with him I started to quickly see that he had a great knowledge of history. I work as a correctional officer and that really seemed to fascinate him. Richard would say, “so Bryan, tell me another prison story”. Visiting Prague and getting to know Richard was an experience that I’ll never forget. He will be sadly missed by anyone who knew him. LONG LIVE THE KING OF PRAGUE!!!!
i cannot tell you how he die but i can tell you how he lived-LIKE A REAL KING.The best after after parties, with the best positive energy around for long long nights and days surounded by the most beautifull girls.He was the KING IN PRAGUE,a beautifull caracter with a lot of stories of good life behind him.I will miss our after parties,long conversations and our good time together my man.But you will always stay in my memories and in my hart.REST IN PEACE CIKA KURE.
Just wanted to show how Dick felt about his friends. Here is his review of Steve’s book, that for some reason didn’t get posted until after his untimely demise. Dick, even though you have pissed us off royally, we still love you. You fucker!
Customer Rating for this product is 5 out of 5 classic story
Richard Mills, movie director, Czech Republic, 07/22/2008
This is a book every last one of us should read. The story may have taken place some years ago, but it’s eerily similar to the events transpiring today. It struck a long-dormant chord in me. I remember that period well. The most polarized time in the U.S since the Civil War. Steve Wilson and his friend Bob Smith, though a part of the ‘which side are you on - 60’s through 70’s’, were still confident, if not naive bright youths who believed in the American dream. One could travel to not-so-far off places, have adventures, visit a different culture, and still do it in safety. They soon discovered that nothing in life that’s real…is safe. In reading the book, you feel as though they are watching a movie. Marauding bandits, crazed natives, revolutionaries, all fascinating to them until they realize they’re NOT viewers, but participants. Players in a strange and dangerous, evolving drama. His story is a true odyssey of triumph over adversity and a pocket version of all that singular period in our history entailed. It’s much more than a story of imprisoned men. It’s a microcosm of the moments in which we lived and survived. They were difficult if not more innocent times in some ways. We still believed that going to another country was, well, ‘going to another country’. Globalization wasn’t a word yet. We didn’t know our government could freely wield their powers over others. The long arm of Richard Nixon stretched out, not to touch, but to grasp the necks of two young United States citizens in Mexico. What happened to them with gun-happy DEA agents roaming that nation at will and indulging their darker side as they would never dare do at home… isn’t much different than what’s going on today in Guantanamo, Poland, and God knows where else. What makes this story more than just another adventure tale, and believe me, it IS that from the daily fighting off of drug-addicted lunatics, the nightly battles for a place to rest, (if not to EVER fully sleep), the certainty of imminent execution… is the matter-of-fact way Steve Wilson deals with each problem as it arises. From his first encounter with brutal creatures who’s sole purpose seem to be to do him harm, to the climactic ending, (I won’t reveal it), he never loses touch with who he is. He remains a courageous individual, clinging bravely to his humanity, able to face the day-to-day facts of his new and terrible existence and say, ‘C’mon world, show me your worst!’ You can’t help but admire this man. Who wouldn’t like to think, or at least hope, that there’s a little bit of Steve Wilson in all of us?
DICK,
WE MISS YOU!!! I am another of Dick’s North Carolina friends. Dick and I spent a sumer together at his great friends, Steve and Cyndy, back in ‘97. We shared good times, great stories about our lives and we both talked/mulled over the past and speculated about our future. This is right before Dick’s time in the Czechc Republic and his reign as the “King of Prague”. Dick had such a spirit of life and was such a kind soul. I liked him right off and always felt a special connection with him. I kept up with DICK through Steve and Cyndy over the years. Steve and Cyndy were great friends of Dick’s that had a long relationship with him and were friends he could always count on…and that were really there for him. Over the years, DICK visited Carolina several times and we had some great times then, but that summer I spent with DICK, way back when, I will never forget. I saw DICK as an ethical man who by instict looked out for others and who had a reat feel for the love of mankind. He took pride in the fact that when it came to “The Industry” , he took care of his girls.
DICK, I miss you. …But I also celebrate your life through this meaqger refection on your life…and all that it entailed…REST IN PEACE MY BROTHER…Your Friend Always, David Hough