Richard Bruce Westlein

Richard (Richie) Westlein passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday, May 20th in Riverdale, NY. He died of natural causes at the age of 71. Richard was a world traveler, cameraman and writer.

He graduated from Sarah Lawrence College and received his Master's Degree in Liberal Studies from the City University of NY in 2019.

He spent several years studying the life and work of musical icon Bob Dylan and had just published his book "12 Rounds with Bob Dylan, the Pugilistic Poet" this month.

Before shifting his focus to writing, he was a cameraman for network television and was honored with 13 Emmy Awards for technical excellence.

In 1989 he founded Jupiter Video, Inc, an independent film company specializing in off site celebrity videos, weddings, and a variety of sporting events.

He was born in Bethesda, MD in 1951 and divided his time between NY and his Florida home.

He grew up in Rockville, MD and was the only son of David and Bernice (Meme) Westlein. Richard is survived by is 2 sisters, Ronnine Westlein and Robin Woodard, his nephew David Woodard, aunts, uncles, cousins and a multitude of friends he considered an extension of his family.

For those who would like to donate to a cause that was Richard's passion, you can give to The Bob Dylan Center General Donation ' American Song Archives. The Center encourages creativity, education and motivation that enriches the world around us.

The date and time for funeral service and celebration of life to be determined at a later date.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.