Richard John Laracy
also volunteered at “Camp Happy Times”, a summer camp for sick children.
Later in life, Rich volunteered in literacy programs and also delivered food to the elderly for the Meals on Wheels charity organization. They say that you make a living from what you get, but you make a life from what you give. What Rich gave of himself freely to the world will never be forgotten.
From a very early age, Rich knew how to enjoy life. As a boy and a young man, he would spend his summers on the waters of Bayville, Long Island.
Whether boating, water skiing or just plain swimming, he just wanted to be outside. Rich also loved camping with his family. In 1981 he took his wife and four kids in a station wagon on a 3 month adventure from New Jersey to California and back. This adventure would go on to be referred to by the family as “The Big Trip”, and has provided a lifetime of memories. At the age of 55, having zero musical experience or ability to read music, he learned to play the bagpipes. Rich took great pride in his Irish heritage and found the pipes to be a great way to honor those traditions. He played weddings, funerals, parades and even on one occasion, on top of a bar. These were some of his favorite pastimes, but his absolute favorite thing to do was spend time with his family. The laughter and love that he shared with his sisters, wife, children and grandchildren continued to fill his life with joy, even in his last days.
When Parkinson’s disease took from Rich his ability to play the bagpipes, he taught the instrument to his eldest son. That is how he lived his life, by taking the best parts of himself and selflessly passing them on to others. He taught us to love, to be compassionate, to persevere and to always care for each other. Because of this, all who knew him, will forever carry on a piece of Rich in their hearts and souls. Though the piper has gone, we will still hear his tune.
The Service will be at Saint Martha’s Church in Point Pleasant, New Jersey on May 11th at 11:00. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Mount Washington Valley Adult Day Center in Conway, New Hampshire.