David P. Richards

David P. Richards, 70, of the Town of Wheatfield, NY, passed away on Friday, June 22, 2018 in Buffalo General Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family.  Born on September 15, 1947 in Dixonville, PA, he was the son of Victoria (Novantny) Richards and the late Paul Richards.  On June 2, 1984, David married the former Suzanne Davis.

Mr. Richards came to Niagara Falls as a child.  David graduated from Niagara Wheatfield High School in 1965 and attended Niagara County Community College. He proudly served in the United States Navy, during the Vietnam War, assigned to Special Forces, from 1967 until his honorable discharge in 1972. For 40 years, Mr. Richards held many positions working for Carborundum, which became Saint-Gobain, until their closing. 

Mr. Richards played semi-pro football in his younger years.  David was a member of the American Legion Post #1451 and Fraternal Order of Eagles in North Tonawanda.  He enjoyed spending time with his wife in New Smyrna Beach, Fl and at their summer home in Long Beach.  He also liked going to the casino. David’s life was centered around his family and he had a deep love for his grandchildren and liked attending their sporting events and became known as “Hockey Papa.”

In addition to his mother and beloved wife, Mr. Richards is survived by three children, Lori (Daniel) Russell, Bill (Kelly) Rohrback and Melissa (Jason) Garlinger; three grandchildren, Hailey, Jacob and Ryan; siblings, Paulette (David) Greenfield, Donna (Gregg) Bloom and Mark (Debbie) Richards; a special relative, Tina; sister-in-laws, Cheri (Mike) Cuddahee and Dorothy (Frank) Oliverio; his grand-dogs, Penny and Bella and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Visitation will be on Monday from 1-3 and 5-8 p.m. in the Chapel of the funeral home where a funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 26th at 11:00 a.m. with David’s brother-in-law, Mike Cuddahee officiating, concluding with Military Honors.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to a Veterans charity of one’s choosing.  Arrangements are under the direction of Michael R. Goodlander of OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY.  Please visit www.goodlandercares.com to leave a note of sympathy for the family.

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