Richard L. Handy, formerly a Distinguished Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Iowa State University, left a lasting legacy in geotechnical engineering education. He was the founder of Handy Geotechnical Instruments, where he advanced practical soil testing technologies, and the author of The Day the House Fell. He also co-authored, with M.G. Spangler, key editions of Soil Engineering, shaping generations of civil engineers. Recognized for his impact as both a scientist and engineer, Handy was a Fellow of the Geological Society of America and the American Association for the Advancement of Science, reflecting his broad contributions to research, education, and the profession.