Richard was born on October 5, 1937, in Hoboken, New Jersey to Catherine Kane. Raised by a single mother who worked in a variety of jobs such as a house cleaner to provide the best life she could for her son, Richard’s childhood remained an important part of his upbringing.
Richard met Eleine Soenen in Providence, Rhode Island, and they were married on June 18, 1960. He was commissioned in the US army in 1960 where he spent the next 20 years serving his country. He was honored with a variety of awards from his service to include: Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal and the Joint Service Commendation Medal. He retired Lieutenant Colonel in 1980 and continued to have a successful career in the private sector.
Richard was proud of his Irish roots (stubbornness was practiced to perfection!) but more than anything he was proud of the family he and Eleine raised. Together, they raised four children: Donna, Tracy, Michael and Sean.
Donna followed in her mother’s footsteps and pursued a career in education specializing in students with special needs. She is a devoted mother to Kristen and wife to Jeff. They reside in Clearwater, Florida, love to travel and spend time with family.
Tracy, the one who forgets nothing and is quick to remind you, has enjoyed a successful, independent life. She has a passion for traveling (especially to visit her siblings, nieces, and nephews), her family, and the Hallmark channel. She loves electronics and holds the family record for owning the largest television (but that won’t last long).
Michael followed his passion for building and has enjoyed a long career in the building industry. He married his college sweetheart, Lisamarie, in 1992, and they have three incredible children: Justin, Jared, and Alyssa.
Sean is enjoying a successful career as an attorney. He married his high school love, Valerie, and they are devoted parents to their two children, Julien and Annaliese.
Richard had a passion and endless perseverance for his family and devoted his life to ensure they were well taken care of. To this end, he was and remained the dutiful and pragmatic father while Eleine remained the emotional anchor for the family. At times he struggled to express it correctly, but, love for God and family were paramount and first in his life. Richard struggled with his divided house (Seminoles vs Gators), but I know his heart was in Gator country (Go Gators!). Richard is survived by his children, Donna, Tracy, Michael and Sean and his grandchildren Kristen, Justin, Jared, Alyssa, Julien, and Annaliese. He was preceded in death by his wife, Eleine. He will be laid to rest by her side at Arlington National Cemetery, December 11, 2020 at 1 PM.
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