Richard "Dick" Canova

In Loving Memory of Richard "Dick" Canova
1937 – 2025
Our family is heartbroken to share the passing of a truly wonderful and remarkable man, Richard (Dick) Canova, 88, who passed away suddenly at his home on October 11, 2025.
Born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, Dick attended East Side High School, where his strong work ethic and sense of responsibility were evident early on. As a young man, he worked as a courier for a jewelry store and at a local gas station before graduating and, at just 17 years old-with his beloved mother's written permission-joining the United States Navy. Dick proudly served aboard the USS New Jersey, now stationed in Camden, NJ, and carried his Navy discipline and honor throughout his life.
After his honorable service, Dick began his career as a chemist, formulating colors for an ink company before finding his true calling in law enforcement. On July 1, 1964, he joined the Wyckoff Police Department, where he served with unwavering dedication until his retirement as a Detective in 1989. While still employed by the Wyckoff Police department Dick also owned and operated Pilgrim Florist in Wyckoff. Never one to sit still, Dick continued his investigative work as part of the FBI Task Force in Woodland Park, NJ, where his precision, persistence, and integrity earned him great respect. He was known for his meticulous reports, keen eye for detail, and his steadfast commitment to justice-never charging anyone unless he had absolute proof.
Even after leaving the task force, Dick continued to follow his passion as a licensed private investigator, maintaining his firearm proficiency by qualifying at the range twice a year-hitting the bullseye every time, even at 88. Even in his late years Dick returned to college earning his degree as a Para Legal.
As longtime resident of Wyckoff, Dick was known and loved by many. He was a man of great faith and deep compassion, especially for animals. Following the TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) program, Dick personally funded the care, testing, vaccination, and rehoming of countless feral cats-never accepting a donation, but doing it purely from the goodness of his heart. He also rescued ducks, birds, and any creature in need, once reviving a stunned bird with his gentle hands until it flew away again.
Dick was predeceased by his beloved parents, Marino and Rose (Sudol) Canova, his brother Robert, his Aunt Nora Sudol, and his cherished daughter Betsy Leigh Canova.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 44 years, Nancy, his loving son Michael and wife Barbara, and his treasured grandsons Michael S. Canova and Nicholas S. Canova and wife Michele, along with his precious great-granddaughter Nicole Marie. Dick was endlessly proud of his son, a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and former owner of Bernie's Bagels in Allendale.
Outside of work, Dick lived life to the fullest. He loved deep-sea fishing, cruising, and standing at the stern of a ship, watching the wake stretch behind him. With Nancy, he shared many adventures-visiting their "happy place" at Disney World, apple and peach picking, enjoying lobster rolls in Maine, and especially cruising together in their beloved red 1957 Chevy Bel Air convertible, where they made lifelong friends in the classic car community.
Though he carried the persona of a tough, no-nonsense detective, those who truly knew Dick saw the tender heart beneath the badge-what Nancy lovingly called his "M&M side": tough on the outside, soft and caring on the inside. He loved to tease, laugh, and always thanked Nancy for every meal she made. A true romantic at heart, he even enjoyed watching Smokey and the Bandit, America's Funniest Videos, and "chick flicks" with his wife, always shedding a few tears at The North Pole and The Lion King. They did everything and went everywhere-always together.
Even after 44 years of marriage, Dick could still make Nancy laugh with his jokes and playful antics. They took care of each other and loved and appreciated each other. Their love was a love for eternity. There is so much more that could be said about this wonderful man who will be missed more than words can say. The world has lost a beautiful, kind, good caring soul and Heaven has gained another Angel.
May you rest in the arms of Jesus dear Dick.
You will be forever missed and forever loved.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to Ramapo Bergen Animal Rescue,
Oakland, NJ
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