Richard Errico

1936 - 2014

Richard (Dick) Errico passed away June 4th, 2014. He is survived by his wife of 50 years Dina (Spoor) of Tega Cay, SC, children Bryan (Kathy Kelley) of Dover, DE, Deanna (Richard DeMont) of Montreal, and Suzanne (Andrew Simpson) of Tega Cay, SC, and grandchildren Angela and Andrea (Errico) and Jack and Catherine (Simpson). He was preceded in death by his father (Rocco), his infant daughter (Deanna Jane), nephew (Frank Richard Errico), his brother (Frank), and his Mother (Agnes Errico Bell).

Dick was best known for his years as a teacher and coach. He taught Social Studies, Consumer Education and Economics and coached wrestling at Maple Grove High School (MGHS) in Bemus Point, NY from 1971 -1992. In addition, he coached Volleyball and assisted in Football and Track. More than a coach, he became a father figure and mentor to many young people. He was well respected for the contributions he made to wrestling in the area, bringing innovative ideas from his many years of wrestling and coaching experience. He wrestled in college (Alfred University), was a member of the All Army Wrestling Team, but had to withdraw from the Olympic Trials due to an injury. In addition to MGHS, he coached at Rockland Community College (NY) and West Point.

Upon retiring from teaching he became a volleyball official and continued to work as a substitute at MGHS. He was passionate about woodworking, creating furniture for his family and toys for his grandchildren. The family spent many summers camping and Dick and Dina continued to enjoy traveling the world after retirement. He enjoyed watching his granddaughters Angela and Andrea sing and dance, and he was looking forward to the events pursued by Jack and Catherine. He and Dina spent winters in Boynton Beach, Florida where they enjoyed bicycling and playing bocce. They had moved from Bemus Point to live closer to grandchildren (spending years in Chestertown, MD and Mt. Pleasant, SC), but Dick's heart remained in Chautauqua County (NY).

He was inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame of Suffern High School (NY), and of Alfred University. He maintained his wonderful sense of humor and was a joy to his grandchildren with his funny expressions. He was exceptionally proud of the accomplishments of his family. He will be dearly missed by friends he found in every place he went. He touched many lives.
A memorial service will be held at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Bemus Point on Friday, August 8th at 1:30pm. Reception to follow.

Donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Foundation of America and the Coach Errico Memorial Fund is being established through the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation for future scholarships.