On August 22, 2025, the world lost a true original. Richard Weintraub—known to many simply as Richie—passed away at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy as colorful, inventive, and unforgettable as the toys he helped bring to life.

Born on September 25, 1947, Richie entered the world with play in his DNA. His father, Lionel Weintraub, was President of Ideal Toys at the time, and Richie grew up surrounded by imagination, innovation, and joy. It was no surprise that he followed in those footsteps, dedicating his entire career to the toy industry—a realm where creativity meets wonder.

Richie’s journey began at Ideal, and from there he made his mark at Galoob, Tyco, and finally Mattel, where he spent the bulk of his career as Senior Vice President of Research & Development. His work shaped childhoods across generations, and his passion for play never waned. During his time at Galoob, Richie spent ten formative years in Hong Kong, expanding his horizons and deepening his global perspective.

But Richie was more than a toy visionary—he was a musician at heart. From his early days in bands like London and The Bridges, to his spirited performances with AWOL in Hong Kong and The Toys during his Mattel years, Richie’s love for music was infectious. Whether strumming his guitar or belting out a tune in a local bar, he brought joy to every stage he graced.

A tech enthusiast long before it was trendy, Richie was always ahead of the curve. From the Casio personal assistant watch to Palm handhelds, BlackBerry devices, and eventually Apple products, he embraced innovation with childlike excitement. So much so, that after retiring, he became an Apple Genius—sharing his knowledge and passion at the Genius Bar in Manhattan, where he was beloved by coworkers and customers alike.

Richie also had a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. A perfectly cooked sirloin at Sparks in Manhattan was his idea of culinary bliss. And while he often presented a tough exterior, those who knew him best understood the truth: Richie had a heart of gold. He was generous, loyal, and deeply kind—qualities that shone through in every friendship, every collaboration, and every note he played.

To remember Richie is to remember laughter, creativity, and the magic of never growing up. He lived his life like one of the toys he helped create—full of wonder, built to inspire, and impossible to forget.

Rest in peace, Richie. You made the world a more playful, musical, and meaningful place.

David Small 

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