Richard Riccio

Richard A. Riccio passed away peacefully, on December 24th, at home after a long illness. He leaves behind his wife of 56 years Angela (nee Ferrino), his son Richard Jr, grand-daughter Nicole, brother Ronald and his wife Nina, Sister-in-law Dora, Brothers-in-law Alex and Tony, nieces and nephews, Diane, Laura, Angela, Nicole, Julie, Mark, Matthew, Charles and Daniel. He was pre-deceased by his parents, Anthony and Viola and his Mother and father in- law, Anthony and Olympia. He was also pre-deceased by his brother- in- law Charles and sister- in- law Annette.

Richard was born on August 30, 1941 in Jersey City. He excelled as a student at Sacred Heart Grammar School regularly receiving perfect grades and, thereafter, at the prestigious Xavier High School in New York City. In our minds eye we can still see him walking up Woodlawn Avenue during his days at Xavier High School, in full military uniform. Neighbors and friends knew he was special even then. He not only excelled as a student at Xavier but also was the starting catcher on its Varsity Baseball Team. He later played for various semi-pro baseball teams.

Richard graduated from Saint Peter's College and received his Masters Degree in Education from Jersey City State College. He began his career as an educator at Saint Peter’s Prep where he served as chairman of its History Department. He moved on to Saint Peter’s College where he first served as Director of Financial Aid and then as Director of College Services for 25 years. During his tenure at Saint Peter’s College he oversaw the operations of the College’s non-academic business affairs along with the construction of numerous campus buildings including the Yanitelli Recreational Life Center as well as the expansion of the College’s residence life program and campus real estate investments. After 25 years at Saint Peter’s College he accepted the position of Vice President of Administration at Fairleigh Dickinson University where he stayed for 27 years until his retirement. Richard was also a trusted advisor for over 30 years to the Sisters of Saint John the Baptist and their academic institutions. He also served on numerous non-profit educational Boards including Saint Joseph’s School for the Blind.

Richie’s choice to stay at home and attend Saint Peter’s College was made so that he could work and help his father’s small used car dealership, Garfield Motors. While in college he met the love of his life, Angela. Together they built a strong bond that lasted over 56 years. Richie in turn was the love of her life. This was demonstrated by her unwavering support and unselfish caring she provided for him through the last five years of his illness.

Richie was a lifelong Yankees fan, especially Mickey, Whitey and Yogi. He also didn’t mind occasionally placing a “losing” Sunday afternoon wager on the Giants and Jets. And, of course, there were the eclectic trips to Atlantic City.

Richie loved life, loved people and he would do anything for anyone. For those of us that he has left behind there will be a permanent hole in our hearts and a void in our lives. Richie believed, in the words of his favorite movie, “It’s a Wonderful Life” that “Each man’s life touches so many other lives”. Richie’s life was a life well lived that meaningfully touched for the better the lives of so many others.

Funeral arrangements are private. There will be a celebration of his life for family and friends at a later date. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.quinn-hoppingfh.com.