Richard John Dibartolomeo

GUILDERLAND - Richard John DiBartolomeo joined his greatest love, Suzanne in eternal rest on June, 28th 2023 at St. Peters Hospital after a long illness. Richard was a New Years Day baby born in Schenectady NY on Jan 1, 1947, to his beloved parents, the late Sophie and John DiBartolomeo. That New Years Day began the story of a man known for his wide-eyed smile, giving demeanor, and quiet confidence. Richard graduated from Colonie High School, received his undergraduate from the University of Maine, and his Master's in Education from The College of Saint Rose. Richard or "Mr. D" as he was known by his students at Albany High School and Hackett Middle School had a passion for education and teaching. He especially loved working with his Special Education students and seeing their development well beyond their years in his classroom. For 33 years Mr. D guided kids in the Albany City Schools to reach their greatest potential and instill the confidence in themselves that he had in each of them. With a strong heart and a work ethic to match, Rich was a member of the US Army Reserve and worked multiple jobs throughout the school years and summers including teaching GED within the New York State Corrections System. The ultimate provider and family man, Richard always put his family first, never missing a ball game, a dance recital or school function. His warm embrace could always cure whatever ailed his children. His lessons extended far beyond the classroom, setting an example in his actions for his children Amy and Jeffrey on what a devoted husband, loving father, and supportive friend should be. Those lessons will live on in both his children and his three best buddies, his grandchildren - Olivia Grace, John Robert, and Michael Alexander DiBartolomeo. The joy of Poppy coming to their house to read, to draw, to watch cartoons and play princess filled their hearts with joy each time.

An avid sports fan, Richard loved to coach and mentor youth sports. His love of sports included the teams of NY especially the NY Mets, which he used to joke didn't love him back nearly as much.

Richard loved his dogs throughout his life with a special place for his labs Roy and Cody, his little guy Lucky, and most recently his terrier Hammie. His family finds great comfort in knowing his most loyal companions will be at his side once again.

Richard was a proud Italian with a passion for his family and heritage. Richard always glowed when talking about what it meant to be part of the DiBartolomeo and Catalfamo families in Schenectady and the traditions that each shared. He instilled the importance of family and those traditions in his children and grandchildren. He will always be lovingly kept in our hearts as those traditions continue.

Richard was blessed to have strong and important friendships throughout his life, none more so than with his best friend of over 50 years, Robert Secovnie. Rich used to say he never had a brother, but he had Bob which was even better.

Richard was predeceased by his cherished wife of 45 years Suzanne, and his sister Diana Marchitto. Richard is survived by his son Jeffrey (Emily), daughter Amy, and his three grandchildren Olivia, John, and Michael DiBartolomeo.

Richard will be missed dearly by all of his family and friends, yet great comfort is felt in knowing he is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife Suzanne. They shared a life filled with love and beautiful memories and now may rest forever, together.

The DiBartolomeo family is grateful for the care and compassion given to our beloved Dad at both Shaker Place Nursing and St. Peters Hospital 5th Floor Med-Surg Unit.

Relatives and friends are invited and may call at the Rossi & Ditoro Funeral Home, 501 Union Street, Schenectady, on Wednesday, July 5th from 5-7 pm.

Services will be held on Thursday, July 6th, at 8 am from the Rossi & Ditoro Funeral Home and then to St. Paul the Apostle Church, Albany Street, Schenectady, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9 am. Interment will follow in St. Joseph’s Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Mohawk Hudson Humane Society at mohawkhumane.org or The Daily Bread Food Pantry at stlukesschenectady.org