Richard Wittel, Sr passed away peacefully at home on October 17, 2020 in Englewood, FL with his wife Michaele H (Carr) Wittel and brother-in-law Arthur Carr by his side. Rick was born on April 15, 1397 in Newark, NJ. Rick and Michaele (formerly of Hazlet, NJ) lived in Oyster Creek, Englewood, FL since 1993. Rick, along with his brother Ed Wittel, served as a Newark, NJ firefighter since 1963, retiring in 1989. He was a member of two unions, New Jersey Retired Police and Fire Union and a charter member of the Florida Retired Police and Fire Union. Having recently celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, Rick is survived by his wife Michaele H (Carr) Wittel and their 3 children and spouses, Richard Wittel, Jr and wife Kerry of Lake Worth, FL; Donna (Wittel) Stroffolino and husband Joseph of Manahawkin, NJ; and Kenneth Wittel and wife Cheryl of Windsor, VT. Lovingly remembered by 8 grand-children, 2 great-grandchildren, 12 nieces and nephews and many great nieces and nephews. Sadly, he will be missed by his surviving brothers Edward and Robert and sister Jane O’Neil, all of New Jersey. Rick was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Mildred (Karge) Wittel, brothers Charles and George, and sister LaVerne (Wittel) Mazzaro, sisters-in-law Ann (Vavaric) Wittel, Madge (Friewald) Wittel, Ann (Bull) Wittel and Virginia (Merry) Carr, and brothers-in-law Joe Mazzaro and Roy O’Neil
Rick's easy-going personality and sense of humor was well known among his friends and neighbors. One of the most genuinely gentle and unassuming people you would ever meet. A good man, good father and loving husband to our Mom for 60 years. Often quiet, but always enjoyed a big laugh. Rick always taught his children to work hard and do our best - that’s all that mattered. If you would like to celebrate Rick’s life further, the family requests that you please make a donation to Tidewell Hospice, 2622 Rand Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34238 in his name in lieu of flowers. A Celebration of Life service is to be held in New Jersey at a later date.
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