Canadiagua, NY - CANADIAGUA - Richard Kathmann, a plein air painter known for his deep reverence for nature and his lifelong devotion to the arts and historic preservation, passed away at Light Hill Comfort Care in Canandaigua Aug. 4, surrounded by love.

Born June 10, 1940, in Oneonta, Richard spent most of his life in East Meredith, in the foothills of the Catskills, where he grew up and later returned to live and work. His eye for the natural world was shaped by the sweeping landscapes of Upstate New York and further nourished by travels across the United States.

In addition to his work as an artist, Richard served as executive director of Canterbury Shaker Village in New Hampshire, and later as director of Hanford Mills Museum in East Meredith. His leadership helped preserve vital aspects of American cultural history while also supporting contemporary education and community engagement. We also thank him for his service to our country during his time in the U.S. Navy.

Richard came from a large family rooted in the Kathmann and Goss lines. He was predeceased by his father, Herman; mother, Adaline; and stepmother, Ruth. He was also predeceased by his sisters, Grace Kathmann and Betty Neumann. He is survived by his brother, John Kathmann (and wife Katie); and by a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins and chosen family.

Richard often said that he had been "very fortunate to have had some of the greatest loves and most amazing people" in his life. His circle of chosen family and friends was vast, filled with love, generosity and mutual admiration. He gave freely of his creative spirit and received the same in return from those around him.

A celebration of Richard's life and an art exhibition will be held noon to 2 p.m. Aug. 31 at West Kortright Center, 49 West Kortright Church Road, East Meredith.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to West Kortright Center, westkc.org, or Hanford Mills Museum, hanfordmills.org.