Richard Joseph Gunning

Richard Joseph Gunning, 81, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family at home on Friday, October 30, 2026.

Born in Ticonderoga, New York in 1945 to the late Leonard Harding and Marion Blakely Gunning.

Dick graduated from Ticonderoga High School in 1964. Following graduation, he served 4 years in the United States Navy enlisting on February 10, 1966 and was honorably discharged on October 31, 1969. He then received his Associates degree at North Country Community College. He furthered his higher education by attending SUNY Albany.

He married Patricia DeRosia in 1971 in Ticonderoga, New York. They moved to Newtonville, New York in 1972 where they raised their two children. He worked for the Town of Colonie within the Parks and Recreation Department before retiring in 2005.

Upon retirement, Richard and his beloved wife, Patricia, started going to their condo in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida for winters and coming back to New York for the warmer months. In Florida, he especially enjoyed walking along the beach, ocean views, and attending PGA tournaments. Throughout their travels, they road tripped to many places like Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and many more.

He was a sports enthusiast, but particularly enjoyed the game of golf. He especially found joy playing in amateur competitive golf leagues. He was also an avid for the Pittsburgh Steelers. He was often found at his grandchildren’s sporting events, supporting from the stands.

In his free time, he had many different hobbies and interests. He enjoyed working on his yard, morning runs around the neighborhood, and family card games. Country music was often heard throughout the house, being a favorite of his.

He had a particular love and pride for his home in Newtonville, New York. He was fond of having family there, especially spending time with his children and grandchildren.

He was devoted to his faith, attending Sunday mass followed by breakfast at his favorite diner.

In addition to his parents, Dick was predeceased by his stepfather, Melvin Porter, his brothers, Michael Gunning, Thomas Gunning, James “Butch” Gunning and his sister in law, Sandra Gunning.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Gunning and their two children, Matthew (Nicki) Gunning and Sarah (Paul) Rosano. His grandchildren, John, Samuel, Lucia, Michael, and Evie. His brother, Peter (Nancy) Gunning, his brothers in law, Ricky DeRosia and William Johnson, and his sisters in law, Lois Gunning, Bernadine Gunning, Pamela Gunning, and Sally Johnson. As well as numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend their utmost thanks to the staff at Community Hospice and Attentive Care for their compassionate care.

Friends and family are welcome to pay their respects from 10am to 12pm on Sunday, November 8, 2026 at New Comer Cremations and Funerals, 181 Troy Schenectady Rd., Watervliet, NY 12189 with a service to immediately follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s name to Community Hospice.