Richard Partlow entered the world in 1948, within the city limits of Kansas City, Kansas, a place where the Great Plains meet the rolling hills of the American Midwest. This event was made possible by the union of James E. Partlow, a stalwart individual with a strong educational background from North Carolina State University, and Norma Jane VanDervort Partlow, a woman of remarkable talent and versatility.
Richard's early years were marked by a series of moves, beginning with a relocation to Oakland, California, where he spent his formative years before subsequently moving to Houston, Texas, a city that would play a significant role in shaping his interests and hobbies. It was during this time that he developed a profound appreciation for various aquatic pursuits, including swimming, boating, and water skiing, as well as a fondness for Saturday morning serials at the movies.
As he entered his pre-teen years, Richard's family made another significant move, this time to Pennsylvania, where they purchased a modest farmhouse situated on a sprawling ten-acre property. It was here that he would attend a small, two-room school house, an educational experience that would likely have a lasting impact on his development and worldview.
Richard's childhood was a picturesque idyll, unfolding against the serene backdrop of rural Pennsylvania. As he navigated the formative years of his life, he found himself immersed in an environment that was as nurturing as it was invigorating. The great outdoors served as his playground, where he could indulge in a diverse range of activities that would shape his interests and passions for years to come.
The days were filled with the thrill of competition, as Richard participated in football, track, gymnastics, and swimming. Each sport presented its unique challenges and rewards, honing his skills and testing his resolve. However, his love for nature was not limited to the structured environment of organized sports. He also reveled in the simple joys of exploring the great outdoors, taking in the breathtaking beauty of the changing seasons.
Summer brought with it the carefree abandon of childhood, as Richard would spend hours swinging from rope swings and claiming his own private domain. The warmth of the sun on his skin and the laughter of his friends created a sense of freedom that was hard to match.
As the seasons transitioned into fall, Richard's attention turned to the thrill of competition once again. He became enamored with sports, riding horses, and engaging in a variety of outdoor activities that tested his skills and pushed him to his limits.
Winter brought its own unique brand of magic, as Richard would spend hours building snow forts and lacing up his skates for a game of ice hockey. The crisp air and the thrill of competition created a sense of camaraderie that was hard to find elsewhere.
Finally, spring arrived, bringing with it the promise of new life and renewal. Richard's enthusiasm for the outdoors was rekindled, as he turned his attention to planting gardens and building go-carts. The sense of accomplishment that came from watching his creations take shape was a powerful motivator, and he found himself drawn to the creative possibilities that the season presented.
As Richard looked back on his childhood, he was reminded of the importance of embracing the simple things in life. The lessons he learned during those formative years would stay with him forever, shaping his perspective and informing his approach to the world around him.
Richard's academic journey commenced with his graduation from Downingtown High School in 1966, paving the way for his subsequent enrollment at Valley Forge Military Academy Jr. College. This initial foray into higher education was followed by his attendance at The University of Miami and Villanova University, where he made the bold decision to join the Marines. After completing his time in the Marines, Richard embarked on a diverse array of professional pursuits, including tending bar, working in banking, retail sales, and even detective work. However, it was his unexpected discovery by a producer from a local CBS children's show that ultimately led to his breakout roles as young Ben Franklin and young Thomas Edison, allowing him to bring these iconic historical figures to life.
Richard's formative years were characterized by an unwavering passion for music, with the majority of his summer vacations spent honing his skills on the guitar, belting out tunes, and crafting original melodies in collaboration with his musical partner, Jim Richards.
As an adolescent, Richard's creative energies extended beyond music, as he also became an active participant in his local community theatre, ultimately landing the coveted lead role in the dramatic production of "Tea and Sympathy." This notable performance caught the attention of a prominent producer, precipitating a pivotal moment in Richard's career, as he was subsequently offered a one-year contract with a renowned children's television show.
