Richard DeFrancis

Richard DeFrancis passed away peacefully at home on January 26th at the age of 90. Rich had a keen love of life and many passionate interests including the New York Giants (he was never a fair-weather fan), model airplanes, golfing, flying planes, computers and solving technical problems. He was appreciated by so many thanks to his warmth, kindness, keen intelligence and sly sense of humor. He was always able to look on the bright side. Rich was an excellent storyteller and listener. Rich and his first wife, Jean DeFrancis, enjoyed family vacations to New Hampshire and Pennsylvania, tennis and spending time with their oldest friends. Rich and his second wife, Wanda DeFrancis (who preceded him) enjoyed an active life filled with friends, family, golfing and traveling.

Rich was born in Brooklyn, raised on Long Island and ultimately resided in Florida. He attended college and was employed as a computer technician on the ground floor of a little start up named IBM. Rich started his own computer company, CCSI, where he enjoyed flying his private plane to business meetings. Eventually, he owned a couple of model airplane shops where he enjoyed a loyal following.

Rich will be missed by many, including his daughters, Jodi Damigos and Jamie DeFrancis, his 4 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren, as well as his sister, Barbara DeFrancis, and stepchildren (Thomas Riccio, Peter Riccio, Joseph Riccio (deceased) along with their grandchildren and one great grandson.

 A celebration of Richard's life will be planned for the near future.