Dannemora, NY - A beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother, Richard "Dick" Harrica, passed away on February 28th. He was born on Nov. 27, 1945 in Monterey, Calif., to Howard Harrica and Elsie (Fall). He was predeceased by his sister Marlene Jones. He graduated from Dannemora High School in 1964 and obtained a Business Education degree at the University at Buffalo.

Richard married his beloved wife Elaine Patnode on April 12, 1971. His children are Bree Pisacane (Jeffrey) of Gansevoort, N.Y., Shann Taylor (Chad) of Morrisonville, N.Y., and Patrick Harrica (Kate) of Plattsburgh, N.Y. He was predeceased by his son Jonathon Harrica in 2021. He was a devoted "Grandpa" to Elonne and Qwin Pisacane, and Reagan and Riley Harrica. Richard's family was always his number one priority.

Richard was a pillar of the community both in Dannemora, N.Y., and Deltona, Fla., where he spent the winters. Each person he met became an instant friend. During his many years as a beloved teacher at Dannemora and Saranac high schools, he inspired countless students as a role model of strength, integrity, and generosity. Beyond teaching he was active in his church community. His never ending devotion to Jesus poured out into the lives of others. He was exceedingly generous and always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone who needed assistance.

Richard made the most of the big and small moments. An avid photographer, he captured the wedding day of numerous couples. Richard loved the natural world, especially spending summers at Chateaugay Lake, trapping, hunting, and fishing. He was a member of the Cranberry Pond Hunting Club, the Siberian Rod and Gun Club, and the NRA. He enjoyed Cowboy Action Shooting and had a passion for pickleball.

Dick will be remembered by all who knew him as a loving, generous, easy-going, friendly, kind person. His light will continue to shine in the world through all who knew him. His family is requesting that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital in his memory.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 12 p.m. on May 8, 2026, at St. Joseph's Church, Dannemora.