Mr. Richard J. "Rich" Ossie Jr.

CLINTON - Mr. Richard J. “Rich” Ossie, Jr., age 52, passed away on Monday, August 6, 2018 at the Siegenthaler Center with his entire family by his side. Born in Utica on July 24, 1966, Richard was the son of Floy (Golden) Ossie-Dealing and the late Richard J. Ossie, Sr. He was a graduate of Notre Dame High School/Class of 1984. Six years ago, Richard found his soul mate, and now fiancée, Beth Eksterowicz, and he gave her his heart. Rich was employed by the New York State Department of Corrections as a Correction Officer for 28 years, the majority of which were at the Marcy Correctional Facility. Rich was well liked and respected among his fellow C.O’s and formed many lasting friendships. Rich was a man with simple tastes. He was happy just being at home with Beth or in the company of friends. He shared a special connection with his sisters and each one was precious to him. Rich had a quick wit and enjoyed sports, especially the NY Yankees and Pittsburgh Steelers. He loved thoroughbred horseracing at Saratoga and had been to the Kentucky Derby many times with his friend Mike Pazik. He was a Civil War buff. Rich and Beth enjoyed traveling and had many fun adventures. In retrospect, he loved life, he loved Beth, he loved his family and the Lord who made it all. Richard is survived by his fiancée Beth who loved him dearly; his mom, Floy; and his sisters and brothers-in-law who will dearly miss their younger brother, Theresa and Jerry Hughes, Susan and Al Zajac, and Patricia and Brian Kelly. He also leaves his nieces and nephews including Evan and Nimrat; Jenna; Jacqueline and Matt; Kathleen and Adam, and David. Always in his heart was the memory of his nephew, Trevor R. Hughes who passed in 1990. He will be remembered by many precious cousins, including his godmother Priscilla and her husband Angelo Pallaria; in-laws, Richard Eksterowicz, Mary Anne Eksterowicz and William Turner. He was blessed with a great number of lifelong friends, including Mike Pazik, who was a fellow C.O. and they shared so many interests, complemented each other’s personalities, and remained faithful friends… forever. The family extends their appreciation to Dr. Atul Butala and Dr. Brij Sood who were so comprehensive and compassionate in treating Rich’s illness; the personnel of the CT Department at St. Luke’s; the caring and compassionate staff of the 6th Floor staff; PCU and 3West; his co-workers at Marcy Correctional Facility and community of his family and friends who were so supportive during this difficult time. Visitation will be held Saturday from 2:00-6:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Richard’s funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday evening at 6:00 at the conclusion of visitation with Deacon Anthony Paparella officiating the ceremony. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Mr. Richard J. "Rich" Ossie Jr.

July 24, 1966 - August 6, 2018