It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Richard "Rich" Donatich, who left us on November 8, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was 71 years old. Born in Trieste, Italy, on September 25, 1953, to Giovanni and Flora Donatich, Rich grew up with a deep appreciation for family, love, and loyalty.

Rich shared a remarkable 48-year marriage with his devoted wife, Michele, who he met as a teenager and cherished as his partner in life's journey. Together, they built a life full of love, laughter, and unwavering commitment. Their bond was a beautiful testament to enduring love, and they were an inseparable team until the very end.

Rich was preceded in death by his father, Giovanni, and leaves behind his loving mother, Flora, and his cherished brother, Jim (Pat) Donatich. He was a proud father to Denise (Kevin) Passolt and Kimberly (David Johnson) Donatich, whose lives he touched with immeasurable pride and joy. Rich adored his granddaughters, Wylie and Remy, and found great joy in being a doting Nonno to them. They were the light of his life.

Rich also leaves behind his beloved sister-in-law, Rosanne Parente, as well as many close friends, including Bill and Tonya Hackney, and Janet and Dwayne Shropshire, all of whom were a source of comfort, joy, and companionship throughout his life.

Rich had a love for flying in his early years. He was an avid cross county runner for Polytechnic Institute in New York and amateur photography during his college tenure. He enjoyed playing poker every Friday while living in Valencia, CA with his father in law and friends and even recently with his poker buddies in Quail Creek.  Rich was always involved in his daughters' school activities- whether that was calling the bingo numbers at OLPH or working the booths at the girls school functions.

He was a lifelong fan of the New York Jets. Rich's love of sports was just one of the many ways he connected with others, bringing joy and enthusiasm to those around him.

As a father, Rich was endlessly proud of his daughters, Denise and Kimberly. He often spoke of them as the greatest accomplishments of his life. His love for his family was boundless, and he was happiest when surrounded by them. He especially relished his role as Nonno, creating lasting memories with Remy and Wylie that they will forever cherish.

Rich will be remembered as a man of great character—kind, generous, and always there for those he loved. His legacy of love, devotion, and warmth will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held to honor Rich's life in the spring just as he had wanted. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Rich's memory.

Rest in peace, Rich. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.