In Loving Memory of Richard Paul Laliberte 1942-2022

“Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one.” ~ Marcus Aurelius, Meditations

A lifelong citizen of New York State, Richard was born in Troy on May 10th, 1942, and grew up in Green Island. At 18, he joined the United States Navy as an Aviation Boatswain Mate - Aircraft Handler on the USS Intrepid from 1960-1964. Following his honorable discharge from the Navy, he fulfilled his pre-service promise of marrying hischildhood sweetheart, Judith Grace, in 1964. They were happily married for the remainder of their lives and raised three children together, Michele, Rick, and Jeanne, in Watervliet. He worked for Niagara Mohawk from 1966 until his retirement in 1994. Subsequently, he worked part-time at St. Mary’s Church and assumed the mantle of Pa, a veritable full-time job.

One may ask, “What is a Pa? A coveted private sector job?” The short answer is yes. More specifically, our Pa is a father and grandfather. Pa is a role-model and friend. Pa is a pillar of generosity and humility. Pa is a shoulder to cry on. Pa is an extroverted, self-deprecating wise-guy and gentleman. Pa chooses to see the good in everything. Pa is avoice to make you gasp and chuckle, a smile to make you blush, a chef to make your stomach full, and a flower in full bloom. Precisely, Pa is a good man.

Surrounded by his children, grandchildren, and close friends, Richard peacefully passed away at 3:45 am on June 24th, 2022, in Troy, New York.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Judith, his parents Leo and Cecile, and his siblings Donald and Elizabeth. Richard is survived by his children - Michele Bridges (Jim), Rick Laliberte (Marilyn), and Jeanne Gordon (Jim) - his brother Bob Laliberte (Lois), and his nephew Rob Laliberte (Anne Marie). He is also survived by his grandchildren - Michael (Nicole) and Rachel Bridges, Cassidy Gordon, and Bailey, Brendan, and Sara Laliberte - and his great-granddaughter Sienna Bridges. Additionally, he was a beloved “Pa” to Lori, Ray, Gregory, Bryan, and Tyler Leicht.

In celebration of Richard’s life, the family requests that casual attire is worn to the aforementioned ceremonies.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be mailed to the “Life Enrichment Fund” at Eddy Memorial Geriatric Center, 2256 Burdett Ave, Troy, NY 12180. Please write “in Memory of RL” on your check’s memo line prior to mailing it, so it reaches its intended destination.