Richard Arthur Meinelschmidt

Richard A. Meinelschmidt, 90, a lifelong Staten Island resident, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, November 30, surrounded by his loving children. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 60 years, Barbara (née Ryan), and his parents, Ivy (née Oxenham) and Oscar Meinelschmidt.

Born and raised on Staten Island, Richard’s lifelong connection to the water began as a teenager working as a lifeguard in Gateway National Park. Summers were filled with water skiing, sailing, and canoeing at his family’s home on Cranberry Lake, creating cherished memories with his children. Later, he enjoyed making new memories with his grandchildren at the Jersey Shore. For 35 wonderful years, he lived by the water in Annadale, a place that brought him great joy.

A graduate of Tottenville High School, as were his mother and children, Richard embodied a life of service and selflessness. Affectionately known as "Richie," he was always ready to lend a hand to friends, neighbors, or even strangers. He served as a Lieutenant in the FDNY, retiring in 1996 after an exemplary 39-year career.

An active member of Eltingville Lutheran Church, Richard served faithfully on the Church Council. His determination and zest for life were evident when he ran his first New York City Marathon at the age of 50, beginning a series of Staten Island triathlons. Always up for a game of cards—whether it was Bridge, Michigan Rummy, Seventeen, or Go Fish—he was a patient and playful presence, living his life with faith, humor, and integrity.

Richard is survived by his children: Timothy (Nancy) of Los Angeles, CA; Colleen (William J. McGuigan) of Staten Island; and Doreen Meinelschmidt Zayer of Staten Island. He was the proud grandfather of Tara, William, Lindsay, Nasser, Adam, Zoe, and Sydney, and a loving great-grandfather to Riley, Olive, Jack, Allie, and Layla. He is also survived by his brother, Raymond (Karen) of Hagerstown, MD, along with several nieces, nephews, and their families.

If you knew Richie, your life was better. If you were loved by Richie, as we were, your life was blessed.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at Casey McCallum Rice Funeral Home, 30 Nelson Avenue, on Tuesday from 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM. Funeral services will be held at Christ Lutheran Church, 121 Cleveland Avenue, on Wednesday at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the NewYork Fire Fighters Burn Center in Richard's memory.

https://www.nyffburncenter.com/donate.aspx