Richard William Bannon

Richard William Bannon, 64, passed away unexpectedly at St. Barnabas Hospital in Livingston, NJ, on February 4, 2021, after suffering a heart attack. He was the third of four children born in Livingston, NJ, to William and Helen Bannon.

Richard is survived by his devoted wife and best friend of forty-three years, Patrice, as well as his loving children, Max Bannon, Katie Feld, and Samantha Stoddard. He is remembered fondly by his sons-in-law Alex Feld and Alexander Stoddard. He was also the proud and loving grandfather, also known fondly as “Popper”, to Lily Feld, and was looking forward to welcoming Lily’s little brother this spring.

Richard graduated from Livingston High School in 1974. He enthusiastically played the drums for his band, The Jitterz, alongside his other friends and bandmates. After graduating from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, NJ, Richard later opened a chain of video stores called Video Mania in both Boonton and Lake Hiawatha. He later went into Information Technology where he worked for the rest of his career.

Rich remained active in all aspects of his children’s lives. He loved all of his children’s friends and welcomed them into his home taking them under his wing and treating them like family. Rich’s family was his rock, one that he nurtured and cherished. He was lucky enough to see the type of people his children would become and he could not be more proud - as he was definitely prone to tell anyone. Their strengths and successes are a testament to his role as a father and a man who encouraged them to be themselves. No wonder one of his favorite sayings was to “Live outside the lines” - an adage he too lived by. His presence illuminated any room and it was fitting that his parting words were always “Peace!” as he threw up a peace sign. Rich had a larger than life personality, bringing joy and laughter to everyone around him.

Throughout his life, he enjoyed spending time with his dogs, Barney, Charlie, Finn, and Harry, while sitting on the deck listening to music (mostly The Beatles). He enjoyed every moment and you couldn’t help enjoying yourself too in his presence.

Richard is survived by his two brothers, Ron and Robert Bannon, as well as the many other members of his extended family. He is remembered fondly by his mother-in-law, Carol LeFrancis along with many brothers and sisters in-law. Rich was the proud uncle to many nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Helen Bannon, brother Bill Bannon, father-in-law William LeFrancis, and sisters-in-law Michelle LeFrancis Fox and Jeannine LeFrancis.

There will be no visitation or funeral services at this time due to the ongoing pandemic as Rich would never want to put anyone at risk. A celebration of life will be scheduled in the future so that family and friends can pay their respects and share fond memories of Rich.