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Richard J. Gunnels
1952 - 2021
Richard J. Gunnels
1952 - 2021
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Richard Gunnels Obituary
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Larry McColligan
September 10, 2021
So many memories not sure where to begin, I hope you don't mind that I express my thoughts in a little bit longer fashion than most. My first thoughts take me back to when I first became part of the Gunnels family, summer of 1966 at Shadowbrook Swim Club. I was childhood friends with Bob and Joe and spent so much time with them and at 20 Sunset Drive, I was often called the 7th son of Mr. and Mrs. Gunnels. We drifted apart for a few years but I was reunited with the family in early June of 1976 at Joe's High School Graduation Party. It was at that party that our friendship was rekindled and specifically with Rich, as I asked him if he was still lifting weights. He replied that he had to take time off due to an injury but would be starting back in a month or so. I asked if he would call me when he did as I was interested in starting to lift weights as well and sure enough a month later my phone rang and it was Rich saying he would be starting back the next day and was I still interested, I immediately jumped at the chance and said yes. There began a deep, deep friendship bonded over not only lifting weights but, countless trips to the Penn Stroud for coffee (with Francis and Bob Bogen) and all types of varying conversations and so many excursions to Shea Stadium to see our beloved Mets. Rich not only taught me how to lift weights (the proper and clean way) he taught me so much more about life, he was so patient with me and he was always so humble. It was during one of those conversations that Rich encouraged me to not be afraid of taking a friendship I had with a young woman (Sarah) at school to a higher level and thankfully I did as we have been together for 37 years. He really took me under his wing and when he started a job as a Mason, he looked out for me and got me a job as a Mason's helper and we shared so many good times and laughs with our lovable boss Jay and crew Tiny and Seymour and then with the Hartman Crew building the ShopRite Store in Stroudsburg. Those times and stories stayed with us our entire lives and always brought a smile or laugh. Our lives took different paths after I graduated college but the most important thing is I recounted those stories to my college roommate, co-workers, and most importantly to my wife and children and they all know and understand how important Rich was to me and what type of genuine person he was. I don't dwell on the last few years of his life, as I know he and his family endured a lot, what I think of is how when I heard he had cancer, I reached out and spoke with his brother Ed and was afraid to call Rich as we had not spoken for too many years and Ed said, call him even though it was almost 10pm on a Friday night and so I did he and it was heavenly, we picked up right where we left off, friends for life. He was more than a friend, he was my brother I never had. I like to think he is resting in peace now, but probably still tortured by the Mets even in heaven but having the best cup of coffee ever. God Bless my brother, rest in peace and for Adrienne and his family may you all be comforted by God's Love and knowing how loving and caring a person Rich was. Larry McColligan
Cheryl Teke
July 23, 2021
Adrienne, Rich was such a sweet guy. I am sorry that he had to endure being sick for so long, but know that he is with his savior now free from all pain and suffering. With deepest sympathy for your loss, Love, Cheryl and Steve
Jake Renna
July 11, 2021
Adrienne I'm sorry to hear of Rich's passing ,from all the stories your brother has told me about him I feel like I knew him well he was truly a great person .
Doug Metzgar
July 8, 2021
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Doug Metzgar
July 8, 2021
Doug Metzgar
July 8, 2021
Doug Metzgar
July 8, 2021
My deepest sympathy. Richie will be missed.
Brandee Rissmiller
July 7, 2021
Brandee Rissmiller
July 7, 2021
Brandee Rissmiller
July 7, 2021
Brandee Rissmiller
July 7, 2021
Brandee Rissmiller
July 7, 2021
I will miss you always Pappy. Going to the Chimp farm, playing ball outside and always having fun when visiting, I will cherish these memories forever. Grammy, I love you! Xoxo
Michelle Gentry
July 2, 2021
Michelle Gentry
July 2, 2021
Michelle Gentry
July 2, 2021
Michelle Gentry
July 2, 2021
Forever in our hearts.
David Ditze
July 2, 2021
Adrienne, my condolences to you. Rich had a lot of grit to fight that monster for as long as he did. He had a strong will to live for him to carry-on the fight as long as he did. I am truly sorry for his passing.
cheryl strouse ninno (midas)
July 2, 2021
so sorry for your loss he was such a wonderful guy and i am glad to have known him may he rest in peace
pat flynn
July 2, 2021
Dear Adrienne, So sorry to hear about Richards passing. Please don't hesitate to call on me if I can help you in any way. I will always be here for you. Much love and many blessings to you at this time. Pat
Pat Flynn
Candice Kocher Ace
July 2, 2021
I’m so sorry to hear of Rich’s passing. Although I haven’t seen him in years I remember him well. He was a very nice guy.
My sincere condolences to his family at this sad time.
Renee
July 1, 2021
Joe and family,
I am sorry to see the passing of your brother. Although I have never met your brother, if he is anything like you, I am sure he was loved. My love and blessings, Renee Dutt
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