Richard and Maude Ferry are one of many couples who have lived what is often called the “American Dream.” They attribute their success to the graces that God has bestowed on their marriage and family. Richard and Maude were high school sweethearts, and both hailed from families of modest economic means. They started life together in their hometown of Kent, Ohio, and then migrated to Phoenix, Arizona. Subsequently, they relocated to Los Angeles, where they spent 35 years before retiring to Seattle. Richard and Maude feel they have walked a blessed and rewarding journey together, from their beginnings in a small, Midwestern college town, to community leaders in Los Angeles and entrepreneurs in a global business.

Richard co-founded Korn Ferry International in 1969, and for more than three decades was instrumental in establishing the firm as the world’s premier provider of executive human capital solutions. Today, Korn Ferry has more than 100 offices worldwide and is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange. In addition to his leadership of Korn Ferry, Richard has served on several corporate boards, including Centex Corporation, Avery Dennison, Pacific Life Insurance, and Dole Foods. Richard continues to be involved with a privately held real estate company and other family investments and businesses.​

Maude was Richard’s partner and goodwill ambassador but was foremost a dedicated mother to their children and was actively engaged in their education and after-school activities. She contributed generously of her time to many volunteer positions throughout the years. When their youngest child left for boarding school, Maude returned to the business world to become a successful real estate agent in San Marino, California. She spent her leisure time playing tennis and studying pottery, art, and music. 

Maude and Richard were married for 66 years and became the proud parents of six wonderful children, twelve cherished grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.

Throughout the years, Richard and Maude were passionately engaged in their community and have supported numerous civic and charitable causes, with a particular focus on the Catholic Church, education, and health care. They established the Ferry Foundations to grow a legacy of giving and gratitude.