Michael Joseph Rich Jr.

Visiting hours will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 from 4-7:00 pm. at Leahy Funeral Home in Kingston, NY.
A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Joseph's Church in Kingston on May 21st, 2025, 11 a.m. followed by interment at Montrepose Cemetery.
Michael Joseph Rich Jr., 40, of Manhattan, NY, passed away on May 11, 2025, leaving behind a family who loved him deeply and will miss him beyond words.
Born in Glen Cove, Long Island, Mike grew up in Woodstock, NY, as the third of six children in a loving and lively home. He is survived by his father, Michael Joseph ("Cheech") Rich Sr., and his five siblings: Dr. Maeva Rich Kennedy of Connecticut and her husband Matthew Kennedy; Mercy Rich of New York City; Matthew Rich of Florida and his wife Cassandra "Cassie" Rich; Mary J. Rich, Esq., of New York City; and Mark Rich of Strattsburg, New York. He was a devoted uncle to his beloved nieces and nephews: Laila, Brendan, Dean, and Ava. Mike was predeceased by his beloved mother, Marquita, "Angie" Rich.
Mike's truest self was defined by fierce loyalty, deep generosity, and a bold, loving spirit. He had a big presence and an even bigger heart, and he loved his family deeply, especially his nieces and nephews. It was typical to find Mike being the first to call on a birthday, show up at a family gathering, or be there when someone needed support. Whether it was welcoming someone into a new home, visiting a loved one in the hospital, or celebrating a new baby, Mike's presence was always felt. It was clear in these moments just how deeply dedicated he was to the people he loved.
Mike began his career in fitness, earning national certification as a personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), with a specialty in functional and corrective movement training. He worked with clients at Gold's Gym in Manhattan and later served as an Assistant Training Manager at the New York Health and Racquet Club, where he combined his technical knowledge with a natural ability to motivate and connect with others.
Mike later moved to New Orleans, where he served as Manager of Operations at a prominent restaurant in the French Quarter. Wanting to be closer to family, Mike transitioned back to New York and built a successful career in commercial construction, contributing to major high-rise and infrastructure projects throughout New York City. Over the years, Mike held a variety of managerial roles in construction, including serving as a Department of Transportation Construction Site Traffic Manager. He earned numerous certifications in Construction Safety and Health, awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration, including scaffold safety and site operations. Mike was committed to learning and growth, and took pride in doing essential, hands-on work that helped shape the fabric of the city.
Mike was also incredibly passionate about fitness and weightlifting. Working out was a major part of his life, and he was known for his strength. He also loved to cook, and was a genuinely talented cook, often preparing meals for family and friends with the same energy and passion he brought to everything else he cared about.
Mike was not only physically strong, but he also had an inner toughness that helped him get back up every time life knocked him down. He carried a kind of fearlessness, pushing through hardship with grit and determination, again and again. That strength, both of body and spirit, carried him through more than most people could imagine. It was a defining part of who he was: bold, unafraid, and unwilling to quit, always holding on to hope no matter the obstacles in his way.
Faith was important to Mike. He often referenced God, scripture, and sayings that reflected his belief in something greater. As he grew older, he reflected more deeply on life, family, and meaning, always holding tight to the hope of a more peaceful and purposeful path forward.
Mike enjoyed time with family, fishing in his younger years, working out, listening to music, cooking, and sharing a good meal. He had a passionate spirit and a presence that filled the room. He will be remembered for his strong heart, his deep love for family, and the loyalty he gave so freely.
In honor of Mike's life, his family encourages others to show up for the people they love, just as he always tried to do.