Richard Paulson: an old school PR pro

I've been lucky to have a lot of great mentors in my career.

Richard Paulson, former spokesperson for Washington's Lottery, is one of them. In his 13 years as PR Manager (1984-97), Richard was the most visible representative of the Lottery for the general public. And a good friend of mine.

Richard passed away from bladder and liver cancer three years ago. He was my client for five years, and an even better friend for years after that.

I think about him often, because I refuse to delete his last email to me from Nov. 10, 2005. The email remains in my queue - where it will always remain - and the subject line is "Respect Life."

Richard's condition took a turn for the worse after writing me that email, and all communication after that was through his wife. But what I loved about his message to me was his premise that a sense of humor could get you through anything - even though he was frightened about the cancer diagnosis and what was ahead.

I mention Richard today because I think it's important to remember that mentors come in many forms. I've worked with brilliant communications and marketing professionals who have shaped my career. Richard would be the first to admit he didn't fall in that category. But he was an old school pro who helped to teach me what being a PR professional was all about.

In his obituary, a former co-worker at the Lottery called him "a combination cheerleader/game-show host/sports announcer/carnival pitchman."

Maybe. But he's one of many people who've had a positive influence on my career. Thanks, Richard.