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Richard Dellaratta Obituary
Schenectady, Richard G. DellaRatta 90, passed away peacefully at home November 7th, surrounded by love. He was born and raised in Schenectady NY to the late Peter and Angelina DellaRatta.
Richard was an accomplished musician, earning a full scholarship to Hartwick College and was the French Horn 1st Chair in the Albany Orchestra. After college Richard became a music teacher in Annapolis Maryland while attending American University Law School in Washington D.C. There he met the love of his life, Elizabeth Cerny, who was working as a Registered Nurse with the U.S. Navy. After graduating law school in 1961 he returned to Schenectady and married Elizabeth. He began his legal career at the Law Firm of Clayman, Mead and Gallo. While raising Five boys Richard became one of the better trial attorneys of his time. He started his own Firm in Downtown Schenectady in the late '60's, a Firm now in its second generation nearly 60 years later. Not only was Richard an accomplished musician and Lawyer, but he also co-founded the local Big Brothers / Big Sisters Association and was President of the Schenectady City School Board from 1968 to 1974. He was also an attorney for MHA for many years.
Husband of the late Elizabeth Cerny DellaRatta, he is also predeceased by his cherished son and Julliard Trumpet player Joseph, his brothers Peter, Arthur and sister Rose. He is survived by sons Rick (Alice), Michael (Diane), John (Michelle), Peter (Amae) and 'daughter he never had', Dee-Ann Lichorat Fusco. Richard is also survived by his beloved grandchildren Sarah, Crista, Kate, Alexander, Eli, Athen and Clinton, as well as several nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his wife Elizabeth, beloved
The family is especially grateful to family friends and caregivers Anerea and Nennd Brijac for their compassionate and loving care in his final years and good friend Jack Mulvey for his patience, care and advice
Funeral Service Monday 11:30 St John the Evangelist church. Calling Hours Sunday 5 to 7 p.m. Interment to be determined at a later date. You may pay your condolences online at www.dalyfuneralhome.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Dellaratta
Sponsored by Daly Funeral Home Inc. - Schenectady.
Carol Stevens
November 4, 2024
Rest in peace always thank you for representing me 43 years you saved my life literally .
Linda Salisbury
July 19, 2024
To his wonderful family. I knew Richard for many years. He was always there for my late husband Charles Salisbury for many years. He was a good friend to both of us and a excellent lawyer. He will be missed.
David Van Wie
November 18, 2023
Please accept my sincere and heartfelt condolences on Richard's passing. He was a good friend, always interesting to talk to. I will miss him.
Michael Murray
November 14, 2023
I met Richard while an MHA Commissioner in Schenectady. He was a very good legal counselor for our board and helped us navigate the reconstruction of our housing facilities in the late 70's. He hosted a couple of parties for our group and we went to a National Housing Convention in San Diego one year with Dick and Liz (a great lady). He was always pleasant and a very humorous gentleman. My condolences to your family.
Carol steward Stevens
November 12, 2023
May you Rest in peace I had the honor of a couple times in my life and Mr.Dellaratta treated me well and was very respectful I and the Steward and Steven familys wish his family's lots of peace and continue the music.
Nancy Bonesteel
November 12, 2023
I met Richard a few years ago at The Crossings park .
He was walking there with his caretaker Anerea .
A friendship evolved & we 3 would meet up often at the park to walk & enjoy the concerts .
He was a true gentleman and friend .
He told me of his life , his love for his wife & his many memories of his career .
He loved talking about being a teacher , musician & lawyer .
A sweet man I had the privilege of meeting .
I will miss walking & socializing with him at
The Crossings .
Rest in peace my dear friend .
Nancy Bonesteel
Jack Mulvey
November 11, 2023
Richard made me smile. He made me laugh. I was always happy to be with him. RIP my friend.
Joseph sarrutto
November 10, 2023
Sorry for loss john
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Daly Funeral Home Inc. - Schenectady242 McClellan Street, Schenectady, NY 12304
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