Obituary published on Legacy.com by Parsell Funeral Homes-Atkins-Lodge Chapel - Lewes on Mar. 10, 2025.
It is with sadden hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather Richard Crisci Sr. Richard entered peacefully into eternal rest in the arms of our heavenly father on March 7, 2025, at the age of 83, surrounded by his loving family after a long hard-fought battle with cancer.
Richard was the son of Italian American parents Carmine Crisci and Eleanor Troncillito Crisci who pre-deceased him.
Richard served in the United States Navy from 1960 to 1964 and was a Vietnam Era Veteran. He was proud of his service to our country. After his military service he worked at the DuPont Stauffer Chemical Plant in Newburgh, NY. From there he joined the Carpenters Union and was a Carpenter by trade. He then went on to work at I.B.M. in East Fishkill, NY from 1978 until 1994, when many workers were downsized. With having a young family and looking ahead at college for his two sons, he applied at the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY and was hired. He worked his way up from HVAC Mechanic to Plans and Programs.
Richard was a friend to many, but especially close to his high school friends Frank Maniscalco (aka) Frankie Boy, John Leombruno, Len Eckhaus, and Mel Lacy. He was affectionately known as "Fats" since his Jr. High School days, by his many friends and the name stayed with him to this very day.
Above all else, Richard was a true family man, a loving and caring soul, a devoted husband and compassionate loving father and grandfather. He cherished every moment with his loved ones, creating memories that will forever be etched in our hearts. He always wanted more time with his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Richard had many passions that brought joy to his life. He loved animals, especially his loyal companions Tina, Rufus, Pudgy, and his first grand puppy Lucky, followed by Scoobie, Scrappy and JJ. He loved hiking, camping and outdoors. He also enjoyed photography. Capturing countless moments that told stories through his lens, which he happily shared with others. He was an avid reader, and he loved history. He was a collector of many things, especially tools and antiques. Rich was a member of the Black Rock Fish and Game Club & then joined the Wallkill Rod and Gun Club where he helped build and mentor many youth shooters on the junior rifle team with another good friend, Ray Carney. Rich was an Endowment Member of the NRA, a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Post 1105. He was also a dedicated NASCAR fan. He was previously active with Boy Scout Troop 327, of the Town of Newburgh, NY
In addition to his beloved wife Carolyn of 47 years, Richard is survived by his sons Richard Crisci Jr. and his partner Yai' Quan, Dave Crisci and his wife Danielle Fullerton, and Nick Sparrow who was like a third son to him. Richard is also survived by seven grandchildren: AnnahBella, Giovanni, Luciano and Evangelina Crisci, Hayden and Avery Foss, and Landen Crisci. He is also survived by his Sister-in-laws Marian (Salbucci) Wilson-Gamma and Catherine Bowden as well as several nieces, nephews and many great nieces and great nephews, cousins, and friends.
In addition to his beloved parents, he was preceded in death by his in-laws Alexander P. Gamma, Sr., Eva (Kukla) Gamma, and brothers-in-law Robert Kukla, Michael A. Gamma Sr., Peter F. Gamma, Alexander P. Gamma, Jr., Walter Bowden, and sister-in-law Patricia (Gamma) Durante. As well as many aunts and uncles whom he had the highest respect and admiration for.
A visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Parsell Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 16961 Kings Highway,
Lewes, DE 19958.
A Mass of Christian burial will take place on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Jude the Apostle Church, 152 Tulip Drive,
Lewes, DE 19958, where friends and family can visit beginning at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at 1:00 PM at the Delaware Veteran's Memorial Cemetery, 26669 Patriots Way, Millsboro, DE, 19966.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Country Rest Home, 12046 Sunset Lane, Delaware Hospice, or the Tunnel Cancer Center, John J Williams Highway, Suite 101, Rehoboth Beach, DE 19971.
Please sign the virtual guestbook located on the tribute wall.
FLORIST NOTE - PLEASE DELIVER ALL FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS TO THE LEWES LOCATION ON TUESDAY MARCH 18 2025 BY 1:00 PM.