Obituary published on Legacy.com by Moore Funeral Home - Browns Mills on Oct. 1, 2025.
Richard Zdaniecki, a cherished pillar of his community, passed away peacefully on August 22, 2025, in
Browns Mills, New Jersey. Born on the Fourth of July in 1949, in the bustling borough of Brooklyn, New York, Richard's life was a testament to service, family, and the pursuit of making a positive impact on the world around him.
Richard's journey began as a nautical repairman on military ships during the Vietnam war. He was a dedicated UPS driver navigating the vibrant streets of Manhattan, New York, where he served for 27 years. His commitment to his work was paralleled only by his devotion to community service. As a life member, past President, safety officer, honor guard, and Lieutenant of the Herbertsville Fire Department Station #24 in Brick Township, Richard's bravery and leadership were instrumental in safeguarding the lives and properties of countless individuals.
His passion for fire prevention and safety led him to teach Fire Prevention, serve with the New Jersey State Forest Fire Services, and become an integral part of the Brick Township Technical Rescue Squad. Richard's legacy in these roles is marked by the countless lives he touched through his teachings and heroic actions.
Beyond his fire service, Richard was deeply involved in his community as the Past President of the Silverton Fishing Club. There, he initiated the "Get Hooked on Fishing Not Drugs" program, aimed at steering high school students towards positive and enriching activities. His involvement with the Howell Elks Club further reflected his unwavering commitment to supporting organizations that benefited children, showcasing his belief in nurturing the next generation. Richard was a lifelong diehard NY Mets & NY Jets fan. He loved to tell jokes and pull pranks on his family and friends. Richard enjoyed listening to music, dancing, and also DJ'd on the side for the Elks and the Fireman's Convention.
Richard's life was also rich in love and family. He was the beloved husband of the late Rosemary Ann Zdaniecki and a loving father to his son and daughter-in-law, Matthew and Jennifer Zdaniecki, and his daughter and son-in-law, Samantha and Richard Jones. His adopted son and his wife, Charles and Adrienne Gianni. His role as a brother was equally cherished, as he is survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Diane and Brian McNally. Richard's joy was multiplied as a grandfather to Emil, Dale, Bret, Josh, ToniLynn, Jacob, Chloe and Gavin; and he took great pride in his role as an uncle to Uncle to Danielle (Joe), Heather (John) and Shawn (Morgan); Great Uncle to Collin, Preston, Declan, Ariella and Hudson; good friend to David Lesser; He was predeceased by his niece Courtney
Those who knew Richard will remember him as a man of great courage, a fascinating storyteller, and a wise advisor. His presence was a comforting constant in the lives of many, and his influence will continue to be felt through the positive changes he enacted in his community.
Relatives and friends may greet the family on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 6-8PM, and again on Saturday September 6, 2025, from 10-11AM, at the Moore Funeral Home, 371 Lakehurst Road,
Browns Mills, NJ. A funeral service will follow at 11AM, at the funeral home.
Interment will be held privately at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Richard's memory to
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.st.jude.org, or to Tunnels to Towers Foundation at www.t2t.org To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Richard Zdaniecki, please visit our Tree Store.