Richard “Dick” J. Rakoce, 90, Massena

MASSENA -- Richard “Dick” J. Rakoce, 90, of 54 Beach Street, Massena, passed away peacefully at his home on August 2, 2024, while in the loving care of his family.

Dick was born in Massena on December 22, 1933, to George and Elizabeth (Deak) Rakoce. He married the love of his life, Shirley Dutt on August 23, 1958.

Besides his parents, Dick was predeceased by his wife of 52 years, Shirley (Dutt) in 2011, brothers George and Elmer Rakoce, sister-in-law June Sharlow and beloved grandson, Daniel J. Fyckes.

He is survived by his daughters, Nancy (Sterling) Fyckes, Norwood, Cynthia (Peter) Santariello, Marcellus, Lisa (Dale) Clemens, Oneida; his son, Rick C. (Tammy) Rakoce of Massena. He is also survived by his grandsons, Andy Fyckes, Mark, Jack and Carl Santariello, Christopher Clemens, Matthew and Hunter Williams, and granddaughter, Katie Clemens. He also had five great-grandchildren, Karson and Layla Fyckes, Kaden Irish, Blake and Callie Williams.

Richard was a 1951 graduate of Massena Central School and served in the U.S. Naval- Air Force as an electronics technician, magnetic airborne detection and radar operator from 1952-1956.

He served in Alaska, Guam, Philippines, Hawaii and California. He later attended Clarkson and Potsdam Universities for his undergraduate studies and completed his master’s degree at Union College.

Dick began his teaching career at Liverpool High School and then at Norwood-Norfolk High School as a high school math teacher until his retirement in 1992.

He was a faithful communicant of St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, a member of the Massena American Legion Post 79 for 68 years, a charter member of the Navy Club - Ship 238, lifetime member of the DAV Chapter 171, member of the Knight of Columbus Council 1141 and the Color Guard of Fourth Degree Assembly 710.

He enjoyed gardening, spending time with family and with his special friend, Ginny Farnsworth.

After Dick gave up driving, he enjoyed riding his scooter around town.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Ann, Peggy and Mackenzie for their compassionate care and to Palliative Care/ Hospice of St. Lawrence County.

Friends may call at the Donaldson Funeral home on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 from 2 p.m. -  6 p.m. and on Thursday morning, August 8, 2024 from 9 a.m. - 9:40 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with internment to follow at Calvary Cemetery.

Donations may be made in Richard’s memory to Massena Volunteer Fire Dept.

Friends are encouraged to share memories and offer condolences online at www.donaldsonfh.com.