Richie Mezzatesta

Richard John Mezzatesta, age 79, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2021, at his home in Murrells Inlet, SC with his family by his side. Richard, “Mezzy”, was born August 2, 1942 in Brooklyn, NY, to the late Mildred (Cimicata) and Alfred Mezzatesta. Richard grew up in Paramus, NJ and enjoyed playing football throughout high school. After graduation, Richard studied auto mechanics at the University of Buffalo for 2 months then enlisted in the US Navy December 15, 1960. He earned an Electro-Mechanic rating at the US Navy Training Center, Great Lakes, IL. He was stationed at Portsmouth Naval Base as an Electricians Mate, 3rd class on the USS Krishna during the Cuban Missile Crisis. He served in the Navy Reserves for an additional 2 years and was honorably discharged February 19, 1967. Richard married his neighborhood sweetheart, Eloise Laura Vogel, July 27, 1963 at St Matthew’s Episcopal Church, Paramus, NJ. They had 2 daughters, Dana and Dawn, and resided in Wappingers Falls, NY for 30 years.

Richard worked for Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc. as a Senior Sub-Station Operator for 37 years and was a member of the Utility Workers Union of America- AFL-CIO, Local 1-2 for over 50 years. He was a 25 year volunteer veteran of the New Hackensack Fire Department where he served in several positions including President. Richard was also a member of the Elks Club. Richard and Elly traveled frequently and loved this beautiful country visiting many states, their family/friends, historical places, and museums. They retired and built a house on Lake Chesdin near Petersburg, VA. After their lake home of 20 years, he and Elly moved to Murrells Inlet, SC to be closer to the ocean. Richard also enjoyed many winter months in FL and especially loved Marco Island with Elly. Richard is survived by his wife Elly, his daughters Dana Torick (Bob), and Dawn Slater (Russ). He also has three grandchildren: Jessica Winningham (Jonathan), Bobby Torick (Sarah), and Justin Slater (Abby).