Richard Perise

Born in Lower Manhattan, he was brought to Staten Island as a child and grew up in West Brighton. He also lived in Rosebank before moving to Dongan Hills more than 40 years ago.

A graduate of Port Richmond High School, he had a 40-year career as an administrator at Merrill Lynch, retiring in 1988.

"He lived, loved and worked hard," said his daughter, Sandra Bruno. "He'd give us anything — he was the greatest there ever was."

"He was smart, strong, supportive, and made sure we were all secure," said his son, James.

"More than anything, he was generous and thoughtful," added his daughter, Cindy Sanchez.

Mr. Perise enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.

He was an avid gardener, loved being on the water, and always owned a boat. In his earlier years, he enjoyed leisure boating, family outings, and fishing.

Mr. Perise was a longtime parishioner of Holy Rosary R.C., South Beach.

Also surviving, along with his children, are his wife of 48 years, the former Anne Winewski; his sisters, Patricia Finkenbine and Elaine Reebe, and three grandsons.

The funeral will be Thursday from the Virginia Funeral Chapel, Dongan Hills, with a mass at 9:30 a.m. in Holy Rosary Church. Burial will follow in Ocean View Cemetery, Oakwood.