Richard LaPreziosa

Richard LaPreziosa, 84, passed away on July 13, 2024, in Middletown, NY. He was born on July 30, 1939, in the Bronx, NY. Rich realized a childhood dream by serving in the US Navy, where he embraced the adventure and camaraderie as he sailed to Japan and beyond in service to his country.
Following his honorable discharge, Rich returned to The Bronx and to his soon to be wife Phyllis as they started their family and raised two children, Karen and Richard. The family would eventually settle in Middletown NY. as Phyllis and Richard would remain married for 49 years until her death in 2015.
Phyllis and Richard met in the Bronx when Phyllis was 12 and Rich was 14. They were married in 1965.
Dad loved her very much and spoke of her often after she passed.
Rich loved the place he found in his career at Home Depot, where friends and co-workers are well aware of his avid fandom of the New York Yankees and Giants, finding joy and excitement in attending games and remembering legendary ones.
Music and reading also played a significant role in his leisure activities, as he loved listening to jazz music and doo-wop and reading about American history.
Rich was a visible figure at Home Depot as he worked there for almost 30 years and was a greeter there in his later years.
Rich was friendly, charming and a real people person and he made many friends and acquaintances sitting at that door greeting people, sharing pleasantries or deeper conversations. Rich was a well-known figure in our community.
Richard's life was a testament to his love for his family and friends, and enjoyment of life's simple pleasures.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Rich is survived by his daughter Karen, son Richard, and his granddaughter,` Annalee and many cousins and friends who will miss him dearly.
He was predeceased by his parents and his wife Phyllis.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 25, 2024 from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM