Damn, Jed, you beat me to it. He had a way, given his knowledge, musical and life experiences, of honing in on what you needed. Then he gave it to you. Sometimes you didn't want to hear what he said, but in the fullness of time you came to understand he was on the mark.
Another hallmark of his giving nature was his desire to use his contacts to help others. Many would hoard this type of info, but not Rick.
Paul Mills has got to be considered in this group as well. This gentle man, with all his knowledge and acclaim, is so giving. I count myself so absolutely blessed to have his influence on my music.
In fact, I have to say that the whole of the Toronto folk community has certainly influenced my music. Some amazing talent up there, and I count myself as fortunate to have been let in to that community.