Richard (Richie) Millen left this earth suddenly on August 15, 2020 after spending a typical day interacting with family and friends. Richard was born in 1948, to Walter and Gladys (Hayes). He attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) Grammar School through the 8th grade and was later a member of the OLPH Ridgemen Drum and Bugle Corps. This experience tapped into his God given talent and love for music. After graduating from Fort Hamilton High School, Richard pursued his passion for music by writing and performing with other talented friends in local venues throughout New York City. Richard enlisted in the US Armed Forces in 1967 and served his country as an Army Military Policeman - canine unit. He spent one of his three years in service at the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Korea. Three years after his discharge from service, he married the love of his life, Camille (Fontana). The couple had two children, Melissa Millen-Broderick (Physician Assistant), and David Millen (Mental Health Therapist and also a Musician). Later he became guardian to his sister Gail’s son – nephew, James Hahn (Enterprise Architect and Marine Corp Veteran). His children and their spouses - Jennifer Broderick and Emily Hahn (Walker), brought him great joy. Richie also has 2 amazing grandchildren, Logan and Chase Broderick who share their grandfather’s love of music, animals and video games. Watching America’s Funniest Home Videos on Sunday evenings was one of their favorite pastimes together. Richard is also survived by his brother-in-law Ed, sister-in-law Mary, and nephews Edward and John who adored him.
Richard worked 35 years to support his family - first as a driver for a courier service and later as a dispatch supervisor for a large New Jersey trucking company. Throughout that time music remained a big part of his life, as he continued to perform with bands on weekends. One of his greatest joys was bringing his musical gift into the lives of others, entertaining family and friends with his piano playing and singing at social events and family gatherings. This inevitably made him the life of party as others joined in singing. In addition to his musical talents, Richie’s love of animals was well known throughout his life wherever he lived and worked. Along with music, having a dog was essential to his happiness. He was always readily available to dog or cat sit for friends or family.
Since retiring 10 years ago, he has been living his best life, exactly how he wanted. His days were spent playing piano, listening to jazz music, hanging out with his dog, and jumping in his pool. Richard was an avid reader. He also enjoyed getting together with family and friends. Our lives have been enriched by Richie’s zest for life and generosity with his talents. May our fond memories of good times together remain with us until we meet again.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard's memory to Pawsitively Furever Dog Rescue, Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation and or to City Harvest.Org
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