Richard C. Depaula

NISKAYUNA – Richard C. ‘Dick’ DePaula, 95, entered peacefully into the arms of the Lord and was reunited with his beloved wife Virginia, on Tuesday, August 23, 2022, at Ellis Hospital.

Richard was born in Schenectady, a son of the late John and Ruth Fisher DePaula. He enlisted in the US Navy in 1944, honorably serving his Country in World War II. He graduated from Nott Terrace High School in 1969 after having his education interrupted by military service. After his time in the Navy, Richard worked with his father, John DePaula, and local contractors on various projects and buildings around the Capital District, including Union College, which remains today. He was a member of the Local 2 International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, recently recognized for 75 years of service.

Richard worked as the Head of Maintenance for Schenectady County Library, retiring in 1995 after many years of dedicated service. He was a man of strong Christian faith, devoted to his family, his friends, and community, volunteering with SICM, the Salvation Army, and his lifelong parish, St. Paul the Apostle. An avid sportsman, Richard enjoyed bowling in the St. Anthony’s Holy Name Bowling league and golfing through age 94. Richard further cherished the five decades spent on the Great Sacandaga Lake with his family and friends. When he was not golfing, working with his hands or in his garden, Richard loved to unwind with an adult beverage with Virginia. He was grateful for time spent with his friends, including weekly breakfasts with Paul Leonardo.

He was predeceased by his loving wife of 70 years Virginia Kozlowski DePaula in March 2021; and his cherished grandson, Justin DePaula. He is survived by his devoted and loving son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Christina ‘Tina’ DePaula, of Broadalbin; his cherished grandson, Jared (Shelly) DePaula, of Scottsdale, AZ; and several cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at St. Paul the Apostle Church, Albany Street at 11am. Interment for Richard and Ginny will be held in Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery on Tuesday, August 30, 2022 at 1PM.

For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made in Dick’s memory to Jack Falvo III Foundation at jacksplace.org.