RICHARD CATTANI

1944 - 2022

CATTANI--Richard. Richard "Dick" C. Cattani, age 77, passed away on July 1, 2022. Dick Cattani was CEO of Restaurant Associates (R/A), a member of Compass Group, recognized as the nation's premier on-site dining management company. Dick was a legendary figure in the hospitality industry, a successful businessman and the most loving husband, father, and Papa. Dick met his wife, Nardyne in 1970 and they were married on June 11, 1972. They raised their three daughters in Ridgewood, NJ before moving to Hoboken, NJ in 2000. Dick was born on September 5, 1944, to Gina and Paul Cattani in New York City. He was born into the hospitality industry - it was in his DNA from a young age. His grandfather was a cook at the original Waldorf Astoria Hotel and then became a Northern Italian chef. Dick's parents owned a small resort in Monticello, NY, where he learned the business at its most basic. In 1964, Dick graduated with a hospitality management degree from Paul Smith's College in upstate New York. Dick always stayed true to his roots and connected to Paul Smith's College, where he served on the Board of Trustees for 22 years, and as the Chairman for 12 of those years. Dick started his career with Restaurant Associates in 1967 as a steward at the legendary "Newarker Restaurant" at Newark Airport where he eventually became the youngest General Manager in the company's history at 25 years old. Restaurant Associates is one of the most respected companies in onsite foodservice, and, arguably, no one is more responsible for that reputation than Dick Cattani. As head of the company's Managed Services division, Dick grew R/A's noncommercial business from a couple of New York City locations in the 1970s to just shy of the 1 billion national enterprise it is today. Dick guided the company through remarkable challenges and notable triumphs, until his retirement. In addition to his visionary leadership, Dick was known for his empathy, kindness, and philanthropy. Giving back to the hospitality community was extremely important to Dick. He personally and professionally supported many organizations and causes as well as mentoring young professionals and at- risk youth. He received many accolades and awards throughout his career. In 2005, Dick was awarded the Adirondack Medal of Honor in recognition of his twenty years of selfless service and leadership at Paul Smith's College. In 2006, he received an honorary degree, Doctorate of Commercial Science from Paul Smith's College. He was a former Fellow of The Culinary Institute of America and a former board member of the Society for Hospitality and Foodservice Management (SHFM). He was honored with a Conti Distinguished Professor Chair at Penn State University, a Distinguished Visiting Professor at Johnson and Wales University in Providence, RI, and a Wise Professor at the University of Delaware. Dick was a commencement speaker at Paul Smith's College (twice) and the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. He was awarded the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association 2005 Silver Plate Award, the industry's premier accolade, for his achievements in the Foodservice Management category. He was a board member of the New York Common Pantry, dedicated to reducing hunger in New York City. Dick also developed a strong partnership with The Fedcap Group, the Federation of the Crippled and Disabled, which provides services to people with disabilities. Dick and Restaurant Associates were honored as Employer of the Year by Job Path, New York, for showing a strong commitment to hiring and creating opportunities for employees with developmental disabilities. In 2010, Dick was appointed as Trustee Emeritus of Paul Smith's College's Board of Trustees and that same year received The Fedcap Group's Outstanding Corporate Citizen Award. In 2018 at Compass' Annual Global Conference, representing 50 countries, Dick was honored with the Company's first Lifetime Achievement Award. Restaurant Associates was honored with a Glassdoor Employees' Choice Award, recognizing the Best Places to Work in 2021. Under Dick's leadership, the company received a multitude of critical acclaim, industry awards, and community recognition. Upon his retirement, an annual R/A award was established in his name recognizing a "Simply the Best" team member - a nod to Dick's favorite song. Dick was the glue that kept his family close. Nardyne and Dick loved traveling, whether it be just the two of them or with their children introducing them to cultures around the world. Dick and Nardyne enjoyed entertaining, playing golf, spending time with extended family, friends and most importantly their grandchildren. This past June, Nardyne and Dick celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. Dick was interviewed in 2018, where he said of Nardyne, "She is my rock. She is an extraordinary individual." Dick enjoyed jotting down notes, sayings, and favorite quotes. His words to go by for the family: say "I love you", do your best, share, hug often, use kind words, laugh at yourself, keep your promise, be truthful and love each other. Dick's love for his family was immeasurable. As we reflect on this great loss and celebrate Dick's life, we are reminded of his authenticity, kindness, awe-inspiring vision, grit, enthusiasm, and passion for life. Dick's legacy is unparalleled, and his memory will live on through all of us. His favorite quote will forever echo in our hearts: "Work Hard and Be Nice to People". Dick is survived by his wife, Nardyne, his children, Danielle and husband Lee Post, Dorian, Dara and husband Leigh Weiss, and his grandchildren, Sienna and Gavin Post and Brody and Ellie Weiss. A Celebration on Life will be announced soon. Memorial contributions can be given to Paul Smith's College , New York Common Pantry or The Fedcap Group.