Richard Garofalo

GAROFALO
Richard "Uncle Dickie"
A man with a happy heart, "un cuore contento," Dick passed away peacefully at the age of 90 in St. Paul, MN, on March 10, 2013. Known and loved by many friends and family who affectionately called him "Uncle Dickie," he was a life-long East Sider and member of Assumption Catholic Church, where his fondest memories were of ushering with his friend, Perri Cocchiarella. As a career employee of Burlington Northern Railroad, Dick had the rails in his heart, and after retirement he often liked to ride the bus or light rail to explore the city. An ardent sports fan, he especially loved baseball and always rooted for the New York Yankees. Throughout his life, Dick enjoyed spending time with old friends and new acquaintances. Dick was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Antoinette Garofalo; nephew, Tony Garofalo; and brother-in-law George Lee. He is survived by siblings, Victor and his wife Jan; Gina Lee; and Don and his wife Pat; 8 nieces and nephews, 15 great-nieces and nephews and 1 great-great nephew. His family extends its heart-felt gratitude to all the staff at Cerenity-Marian Care Center for their loving care and kindness, Health Partners Hospice for their guidance at the end of Dick's journey and to special caregivers Kate Farkas and Richard Gnetz for their dedicated attention and affection for Dick. Visitation will be held Friday, March 15 at Assumption Catholic Church in St. Paul at 9:00 am, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 and burial at Resurrection Cemetery in Mendota Heights. The family respectfully requests no flowers; donations may be made to the Anthony Garofalo Educational Fund at the Saint Paul Foundation or donor's choice.