Richard Gerth - my 328th pick to be named a Disney Legend

Richard Gerth served as a greeter at the Grand Floridian hotel at Walt Disney World for nearly 30 years. He is my 328th pick to be named a Disney Legend. From his obituary in Attractions Magazine:

Walt Disney World cast member Richard Gerth passed away on June 7, 2018, following a battle with pneumonia and a brief stay in hospice care.

Gerth served as a greeter at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa for nearly 30 years, starting in 1991, and earned the Disney Legacy award in 2013.

Known for his straw hat – which he would tip to welcome guests – Gerth became seen as a grandfatherly figure for visiting families, who would come back to visit and take photos with him year after year.

In a statement to the Orlando Sentinel, Walt Disney World president George A. Kalogridis said, “With his trademark smile, a twinkle in his eye, and a tip of his straw boater hat to everyone he met, Richard Gerth was an indelible part of millions of Walt Disney World memories, and we will all miss him greatly.”