Walt Disney World fans are mourning the reported passing of Richard Gerth, the long-time greeter at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Gerth, who was reported to be 92, became the face of the Grand Floridian for thousands of frequent Walt Disney World Resort visitors who wouldn't think of stepping into the hotel without taking a moment to chat with him.
A winner of the Disney Legacy Award for outstanding service to the company and its guests (his blue nametag signified that award), Richard was beloved for his kindness and wit. If you had the opportunity to meet Richard and would like to share a story in his memory, please do so in the comments.
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Grand Floridian is pretty much the one Disney resort my family has never stayed in so didn't get to meet him but have heard of his reputation so a sad loss.
My family and I met him as we exited the Magical Express for our stay at the Grand Floridian. We've always said that the cast members make the trips magical. His warm greeting and assistance (he escorted us to the desk for check-in) was so charming that we still mention him years later. Rest in peace, sir. May you be remembered in the smiles of those you greeted.
I never got the pleasure of meeting him but i have heard of him through other Disney friends, such sad news
Had the pleasure of meeting this great gentleman when we stayed there for our 40th anniversery 2 years ago. He was there every day and made our day always with a pleasant outlook and disposition. He will be missed. Joe and Carol from Pa.
Perhaps they will name an area at the hotel after him, it would be a nice touch.
Someone on the Disney FB group said they had a nice chat with him at Easter and he talked about being on the beaches in Normandy on D Day at the age of 19. They said he passed 74 years to the day.
I never met him but he sounds like he was a wonderful kind man.
I remember stopping and talking to him one Christmas Holiday season I stayed at the Grand Floridian with my niece. He was a delight to talk too and I thoroughly enjoyed the conversation. People really need to take the time and talk to older folks, they have some amazing stories and to some degree are a time capsule. I agree with JK...he should have a part of the hotel named after him or a suite, room, lobby. I did not know that about the blue tag...I was going to ask but just got mesmerized by the conversation we had. Disney’s Grand Floridian really Lost a Jewel of their resort. R.I.P Gerth.
Next to the mouse; he was the best! Mr. Gerth was always in character, always on stage. We met with him every time we stayed in Disney and he was very charming and authentic.
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I'm happy to say I was able to shake his hand. He was always a pleasure.