Mr. Richard A. "Rich" Klotz

Mr. Richard A. “Rich” Klotz, Retired Patrolman of the Utica Police Department, age 59, peacefully crossed over and was reunited with those who went before him on Wednesday, October 12, 2016. His passing occurred in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in New Hartford on May 22, 1957, Richard was the son of the late Theodore and Mary (Barry) Klotz. He was a graduate of Utica Free Academy/Class of 1974. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Rich honorably served his country during the Vietnam Era as a member of the 3rd US Infantry Division stationed stateside. He was also hand-selected to be a member of the official Ceremonial Unit for former President Gerald R. Ford. Rich shared in a 14-year relationship with Paula Ambroselli. He had found his true love and Paula felt the same, so on March 13, 2010 they united in marriage. They adored one another and their love proved that opposites really do attract. Rich began his public service career with the Oneida County Sheriff’s Department where he served as a Deputy Sheriff for several years and was a recipient of a citation for his bravery. In 1981 he joined the ranks of the Utica Police Department as a Patrolman. He served honorably under the administration of the late Chief Benny Rotundo. He respected others and was highly respected in return. He was also honest and fair. Mix those virtues with compassion and common sense, and we get a true mosaic of Richard’s benevolent heart and mind. His training and primary personal concern was to protect and serve the citizens of Utica. He concurrently worked security at various area municipalities to to provide for his family. In 1982, while working full time, he decided to continue his education at MVCC where he received an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice and attended SUNY Utica/Rome where he earned a Bachelors Degree in Professional Studies. During his years of service, he was selected to be a Field Training Officer, and once again, he trained young officers to be mindful of their actions and outcomes. Rich retired from the workforce in 2002 after dedicating more than 20 years to the Police Department and his community. In his private life, as in his professional life, Rich loved and honored his relationships. He was non-judgmental and fair-minded. He was blessed to have lifelong friends who were extended family to him. He was not good at keeping secrets when he knew something, but his non-disclosure personality would kick in, and the only thing he revealed were his sealed lips and his unique cackling laugh. Rich was a family man who was concerned about his children, but when the grandkids came along, he felt a new kind of love. He cherished them, spent time with them, and followed their activities and sporting events. He was a good provider, and he became wiser and more watchful as he got older. He imparted words of wisdom to his children who learned how to be a “dad” through his example and the importance of respecting yourself and others. Family holiday dinners were important to Rich. St. Patrick’s Day was his favorite day to celebrate, complete with green beer, green attire, and a good corn beef and cabbage dinner. He was proud of his Irish and German heritage. At his camp at Beaver River, Rich found peace of mind amid the beauty and serenity of the Adirondacks. And he loved fish. He bred them and raised them in a wall to wall aquarium that he constructed in his basement, a place where he derived a great sense of peace. He was so proud of his research and ability to simulate a natural habitat in an awesome aquatic biome in his home. He was a member of the Fish Club which deepened the knowledge of his hobby of fish breeding. He was a late bloomer at golfing and enjoyed playing on different fairways. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge. He put his faith in the preachings of Pastor Father Tom Durant, respected him as a friend, and worshipped with him. Rich prayed for his intentions as well as others in their time of need. Midnight Mass on Christmas Day was a solemn, special time for Rich. Richard is survived by his wife, Paula; and his children, Richard A. Klotz II, Daniel P. Klotz, Joseph Cardoso, Anthony Cardoso, Kelly Klotz, and Erica Klotz; his grandchildren, Tristan J. Klotz; Areanna E., and Brendan G. Klotz; Gianna Rodriguez, and Giovanni Brescia. He will also be remembered by his brothers and sisters-in-law, Theodore P. and Diane Klotz, William E. and Darlene Klotz, Timothy M. and Helen Klotz, and Jeff and Amy Klotz; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, and in-laws. He cherished the friendship of the Boehlert family especially Timmy and Mike; and Mickey Maunz and fellow retirees of the UPD who met on Wednesdays for breakfast. He had a host of people whom he honored for a lifetime, and shared many wonderful occasions. He was predeceased by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Michael and Helen Ambroselli; his brother-in-law, Michael John Ambroselli, Jr.; and close friend Kevin Davis. Paula and her family would like to thank the following physicians and staff for their commitment and dedication while caring for Rich: Dr. Toby Taylor and his nurse Diane, Dr. Manzurul Sikder, and Dr. Vinad Kudagi; the "angel nurses" of the sixth floor at Faxton-St. Luke's Healthcare Center, Sara, Kim, Wendy, and Michelle, who were a blessing to Rich and his family and were so appreciated; the staff of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. who allowed Rich to spend his final days in his home with his family; and dear friends Christine Burkinshaw and Andy Mrozienski whose presence was so comforting and sincere. The family shared precious time with Richard during his illness and at the time of his passing. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend his funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday morning at 11:30 at The Catholic Community of Whitesboro at St. Paul’s Church, 16 Park Ave., Whitesboro where his Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Fr. Tom Durant. Military Honors as well as Honors by the Utica Police Department will be conferred. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of Mass. By family request, please omit floral offerings.

Mr. Richard A. "Rich" Klotz

May 22, 1957 - October 12, 2016